How Big Can It Get? Parkinson's Patients Find Greater Expression

For those individuals who are diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, life is profoundly different as the condition progresses. Parkinson's is most identified by it's effect on mood and energy. This occurs because the brain cells responsible for producing the neurotransmitter dopamine become impaired or die. When this happens, it decreases the ability of the sympathetic nervous system to regulate the more active functions of the body which present as low energy with slow motion, as well as tremor and a depressed affect. Individuals with Parkinson's also sustain damage to the nerve endings that produce norepinephrine which results in further dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic) and functions like blood pressure regulation. Balance and good posture become challenged as well as the ability to speak and maintain mental clarity.


Patients with Parkinson's disease are treated with medications that mimic or convert to dopamine to maintain some higher level of sympathetic arousal and surgery may be recommended which involves implanting electrodes deep in the brain to stimulate those parts that control movement. In addition, physical therapy may be an effective treatment to maintain and enhance voluntary function of muscle groups that have experienced decline. We have found a treatment here at Healthlinks that has been shown to markedly improve the quality of life for many Parkinson's patients. It's called LSVT Big.

LSVT was developed to help Parkinson's patients speak louder and improve movement size and quality. It has been shown to increase the amplitute of gait and trunk rotation to improve functionality of daily activity and speed of the limbs as well as improving balance. This intensive protocol uses many repetitions of functional movement patterns to maintain and in some cases re-establish movement that has been impaired. LSVT is truly a one of a kind treatment that improves the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's disease. And the earlier this intervention is applied the greater the impact it will make. Give us a call to see if this is a program for you or your loved one. Call us at 303-443-1937 and visit LSVT Global to learn more about this unique treatment.

Variety is the Spice of Life...Color Your Diet!

We are a society with a focus on quantity. When the virtues of a food are extolled, we tend to think that more is better. While this may be true to a point there is a much bigger lesson to be gleaned from our research on food and health. A variety of plant foods is not only more interesting to our taste buds, it provides us with greater health benefits as well. This varietal approach can also be a part of supporting the consumption of seasonal foods.

So does variety truly make a bigger impact than more of a good thing? The evidence suggests that this is a resounding yes. Two studies showed that variety was the significant factor in positive health markers. One study was carried out in Spain and the other in Puerto Rico. The study in Puerto Rico was published in the November 2010 edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition which followed dietary habits and heart disease risk for 1200 middle-aged Puerto Rican men over a ten year period. The authors of the publication found that coronary heart disease risk was reduced as a result of the variety of foods consumed rather than quantity. Those with a greater variety had lower blood levels of C-reactive protein which is an inflammatory marker for heart attacks and other diseases. The Spanish study, published in the September 2010 edition of Cancer Epidemiology, looked at male smokers who ate more than eight sub-groups of vegetables and found that it lowered their risk of lung cancer by an astounding 23% compared to those who ate fewer than four sub-groups.

The homogenous nature of our diet may be one of the greatest detriments to our health. And when you take into consideration the particularly nutrient deficient nature of this restrictive diet, it emphasizes further where we are going astray. Much of the western diet includes lots of poor quality meat, sugar and enriched wheat products and too little whole fruits, vegetables, legumes and varietal grains like quinoa and millet. We are profoundly missing out on the broad range of nutrients that are not listed in the USRDA which easily number in the thousands. Many of these are in the famed group of antioxidants that facilitate the bodies management of inflammation which is a known catalyst for diseases such as cancer and heart disease. There are many yet undiscovered that provide rather unique functions that keep the body at it's optimal performance and warding off disease. By eating this broad range of foods we are feeding our bodies as we have evolved with nature and benefit from the synergy that we have developed with these plant-based foods. This diversity of plants includes fruits, veggies, herbs and spices.

So the adventure begins here! Going for variety likely means deviating from your normal menu. While it takes a bit more time to get used to making different meals, perhaps by committing to making a change for 1 or 2 meals a week you will reach the goal of increasing your varietal selections. And it will become easier as you increase your repetoire which will ultimately give you more to choose from for the rest of the week. Enjoy the discovery of new foods at the grocery store and savoring new flavors each week. It brings a whole new experience to the act of eating and provides a surprising degree satisfaction. So explore these different groups...and Bon Appetite!

- grains and pods
- allium veggies such onions, garlic and leeks
- stalk veggies
- leafy greens
- fruiting veggies
- root veggies
- mushrooms
- cabbages
- berries and citrus fruits

Circadian Rhythm and Well Being!

The circadian rhythm is an appoximate 24-hour physiologic and behavioral cycle of all animals, as well as plants and other organisms. This rhythm is considered to be an innate response that allows organisms to syncronize with their external environment. This internal mechanism makes slow adaptations to external stimuli and operates within a relatively small window of fluctuation. This reaction takes place slowly which correlates with the gradual changes of the light/dark cycle of the seasons which is the primary external determinant of the circadian rhythm. There are clear patterns of brain wave activity, hormone and cell regeneration and other biological functions that are clearly linked to this cycle that when disrupted contribute to chronic health issues. And it is this time of the year when societal norms press us most to become out of sync with this natural clock. Our bodies want to start preparing us for sleep earlier with the shorter days and when we stay up late and eat late into the day it completely upsets this balance.

The holidays are perhaps the most critical time for you to maintain the health of your body, mind and emotions and honoring your inherent rhythm is a necessary element to this end. This means allowing only a small fluctuation in habits of sleep and eating and maintaining behaviors during the season that support this. The overwhelming theme to accomplish this is to assert your boundaries so that you make time for these healthy behaviors. Stay with the kind internal dialogue that a healthy you is the most gracious gift you can give to those you care for. With that in mind, remember these tips for a truly peaceful and festive season.

1. Enjoy your parties, but don't shut them down. Late evenings which will obviously prohibit a full night's sleep, are the quickest way to throw off your cycle. Even if you manage 8 hours, the quality is diminished because the optimal function of sleep hormones depends on a regular pattern of wakening and sleep. Get yourself settled and in bed around 10 o'clock. You may vary slightly from this time frame, but know your schedule and stick to it like glue.

2. Limit sugar and alcohol intake which in high quantities can decrease the qualilty of your sleep.

3. Do not eat anything after 8 pm. Your body will be expending energy to digest foods when it needs to calm your metabolism so it can focus on the sleep processes.

4. Perform some type of breath work or yoga which not only helps you sleep better, but inherently honors our relationship to our natural environment. The ancient practice of yoga and meditation developed with nature in mind knowing that our symbiosis with it is a basis for health. Look for classes with experienced instructors that help you get in tune with these fluctuations of the seasons by using specific poses and breath work that give this support. This will not only help you adapt as you enjoy the class, but it will put you more in touch with what you need to stay in a healthy state of mind and body.

The New Vitamin A?

Beta-carotene has been a well promoted phytonutrient for over a decade. The role of this in supporting health and disease prevention is real, but studies popped up that brought this into question when the impacts of supplementation where assessed. You may have heard about the smoker's study that showed an increase in lung cancer incidence in smokers who used supplementation of beta-carotene. Fortunately, it caught on that it wasn't the phytonutrient itself that was the issue, it was the lack of synergysm of other nutrients in whole foods which is necessary to sustain the integrity of beta-carotene. So now researchers have discovered yet another phytonutrient in the same family, alpha-carotene.

Alpha-carotene belongs to the group of antioxidants called carotenoids which are grouped as such because of their similar structure. In a new study published in The Archives of Internal Medicine, showed that this carotenoid helps prevent diseases such cancer and cardiovascular disease. The study provided evidence that those who had the highest blood levels of alpha-carotene had the lowest incidences of these 2 ailments. The key to the study was that they analyzed blood levels of the nutrients and not the effects of supplements. This was the case in the beta carotene research and the benefits fell short. The take home of the new study is yet again the value in eating whole foods for the synergistic effects. To gleen these benefits, enjoy the flavor and satiety that comes from eating foods rich in this nutrient such as carrots, pumpkin, red pepper and chiles and you will be certain to boost that value of the phytonutrients that mother nature provided.

Gut Microbes and Health Maintenance

There is much discussion about the health benefits of taking probiotics to rebuild or fortify your intestinal bacteria. In a healthy gut, these microbes outnumber human cells by ten to one and they collectively weigh in at 3 pounds. The significance of these organisms is rather broad and very critical to the health of the human body. They manufacture some vitamins, break down toxins and produce necessary metabolites. What we have discovered about their function in recent years has been nothing less than astounding. There is strong evidence in support of their mediating effects on inflammation, a key player in the initiation of cancer. New research through the University of Aberdeen Rowett Research Institute of Nutrition and Health, has found that appropriately manipulating the diet can lead to changes that favor the reduction of inflammation. According to Wendy R. Russell, PhD, Principal Investigator in the above study, "we're now getting a much clearer picture of what the diet and gut bacteria are doing and how it relates to inflammation, one of the most important endpoints of health." So what are the keys to support this anti-inflammatory diet?

The study showed that after three to four weeks on two different diets, one biological sample showed significant changes in gut microbes and their metabolites that supported an anti-inflammatory effect. One diet was similar to Atkin's with high animal protein intake and little carbohydrate. The other entailed a higher consumption of carbohydrates with protein coming from soy sources. The group getting their protein from meat sources had a marked increase in inflammatory molecules. They also sited the importance of certain types of carbohydrates. The end result, once again, was that a plant-based diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables supported the health of the intestinal bacteria that is so important for our health. Taking probiotic supplements can be an important part of healing a gut that is poorly functioning, but maintaining a rich plant-based diet is the foundation we need for the lifespan.

Happy Holiday Habits

The theme of the holidays is one of giving and in the true spirit of the season, this is what we all desire to do. However, we have all learned the lesson that when we give more than we have the energy to give, our health and emotional state will suffer. Perhaps one of the most authentic gifts you can give to others is your happiness and well-being. The contagion that comes from a positive mind and healthy body is truly a priceless gift to those around you.

So as you make your shopping lists and plan for your parties continue to schedule the time you need to keep yourself whole. Maintaining your exercise program during the holidays is the most important gift for you to give to you! And if you want to offer a tremendous gift to others, spend time with them on a walk, hike or meet them at the gym so you can support them in their healthy habits. Shortening the time of an exercise bout is a better option than cutting it out of your daily schedule. Since habits are hard to develop, if you are already consistent, it is important to maintain it so the pattern is not lost during this time of relative mayhem.

If you are not consistent with an exercise regimen, then it is ok to start now as long as it is the only habit you are trying to adopt. And perhaps this may be the habit to choose, since your health is a grand gesture of self-love. So what are the steps to developing and maintaining a good habit?

Keep it simple, write it down, stay consistent and monitor your own feedback. Habit adoption goes through about 3 phases where month 1 is the time when you are committed, but slight interruptions can throw you off . By month 3, the desire to maintain versus give up on it is about neutral, meaning there is a 50/50 chance you will go either way. And by the end of year 1, it is generally harder to give up on the habit than it is to continue it. So by keeping it simple, writing it down and maintaining consistency you will give yourself the best shot at success. And finally, monitoring your own feedback to see if you are enjoying yourself and feeling better is key to facilitating this positive change. Because after all, if it not bringing you more joy and well-being, is it a great addition to your life?

How Clean Are Your Cleaning Products?

Cleaning products have morphed since the days of our mothers, grandmothers or perhaps our great grandmothers. What was once effective at keeping us clean has now presented a possible avenue for toxic build up in our homes. Cleaning product manufacturers have done a fine job of marketing a need for a multitude of cleaners that contain chemicals which introduce toxicity and hormone disruption in our bodies. We went into some depth on this in spring and gave you a recipe for an all purpose cleaner to replace a number of those problematic products. See our spring cleaning blog from April 2010.

Our source for homeade cleaning products is Women's Voices for the Earth and now they've done it again! In their efforts to reduce human exposure to chemicals and clean up our environment, they've scrutinized some of the top manufacturers of cleaning products for their use of toxic chemicals. Follow the link to their website to see for yourself which companies are making changes to keep you safer. At this point, the safest cleaning products are the ones you make yourself, but this breakdown of company practices will help you make a more informed choice at the store. If you would like to mix up your own batches of cleaning products, just ask us for help or stop by the clinic.

A Healthy Thanksgiving Away From Home?

Does healthy Thanksgiving sound like an oxymoron to you? This meal of gratitude, as it began in 1621, was about appreciating the life-giving nutrition that the Pilgrims knew was not granted. In the United States, food is now a commodity we have in abundance. The problem is that the food supply as a whole is not full of health as was the case in 1621. The message that we would like to continue to resonate is that our diet is one of the pillars of our health. One that is rich in whole plant-based foods provides us with a foundation for vitality. Thanksgiving is not a time to deviate from this practice, rather it is a time to find gratitude for the opportunity that we have to support our own well-being.

So how can you support this endeavor as a holiday guest? We know that not all Thanksgiving hosts would prepare our ideal meal, but we feel fairly confident that you can follow some tips to treat your body more kindly. An average Thanksgiving meal contains between 2,400 and 4,000 calories. If that sounds a bit excessive, it's because it is. The recommended daily intake of calories is 1,600 to 2,400 for women and 2,000 to 3,000 for men. Of course, this range depends on a person's size and activity level, but in any case your typical Turkey day meal either hits or far surpasses your body's need for calories. And this is just one meal!

On that note...

* Do not skip the rest of the days meals to save up for the feast. In fact...we think you should do quite the opposite. Eat a normal breakfast and lunch so you don't come to dinner feeling famished.

* Take a walk during the day and make it a social event with the whole group! Not only will you be maintaining your exercise program, but it can stabilize blood sugar and make you less inclined to want to over-indulge at dinner.

* Don't even look at soda and other sugary beverages.

* Cut your alcohol consumption to an ounce or 2 of wine, 4 ounces of beer and half a shot of hard alcohol and savor it!

* Eat with all of your senses by allowing yourself to appreciate the visual appeal, the aromas and finally the taste and texture of the food in a slow and mindful way. Digestion starts even before the food hits our lips, so allow for each step to take place slowly so our body can fully digest and assimilate the nutrients. In this way, you will also allow the satiety hormones to kick in before you have filled every square millimeter of your stomach.

* Be social! Enjoy the conversation and connection to those who you are with. You will decrease the quantity of food by simply spending more of the time being focused on the whole experience of sharing time with others. Make eye contact when you are listening as well as talking.

* And last, but not least...know the portion sizes of the dishes. Got it? Now cut that in half...at least. Since, the number of dishes far surpasses the number you would have at a typical dinner, you need to scale down the portion to not feel like a lead balloon. Ideally, this dinner should not amount to much more than a typical dinner, so aim for between 600 to 1,000 calories depending upon your gender and activity. Here are some typical servings and calories on a Thanksgiving spread:

4 oz egg nog - 170 cal
4 oz wine - 110 cal
1/4 cup mixed nuts - 220 cal
3 oz ham - 150 cal
3 oz turkey - 160 cal
1/2 cup stuffing - 180 cal
1/2 cup cranberry sauce - 180 cal
1/2 cup mashed potatoes - 150 cal
1/2 cup sweet potatoes - 150 cal (without the marshmellows!)
1/2 cup green bean casserole - 110 cal
1 dinner roll - 110 cal
1 pat butter - 40 cal
1 slice of apple pie (1/8 of 9' pie) - 410 cal
1 slice of pecan pie " " - 480 cal
1 slice of pumkin pie " " - 180 cal
1/4 cup whipped cream - 40 cal
1/2 cup ice cream - 140 cal

When we add up the total here, it comes to 2,870 calories. Now maybe you won't eat all this, but it's not hard to see how the average Thanksgiving dinner can get out of hand and you end up feeling like you can't move.

So why not take a different approach? Focus on the gratitude for sharing nourishing food in good health with people that you are fortunate enough to be surrounded by. It will change your whole experience and put the old meaning of the holiday back in its' rightful place!

Live Long - Eat Less!

There is heightened awareness about eating the right foods and maintaining a healthy body weight using diet, exercise, quality sleep and stress reduction techniques. We certainly know and promote this information to be true. However, have you heard of the health benefits of eating less calories over the long haul? It is called the metabolic theory of aging. The studies that have been conducted on this theory have shown that among individuals who have maintained a healthy body weight, those with a reduced calorie diet had increased longevity.

Also considered the free radical theory, it postulates that these unstable molecules ultimately cause damage to our DNA and other molecules of our bodies' tissue. This damage accumulates over time until eventually our systems break down and fail us. Free radicals are generated mainly from the metabolism of food into energy. Support of this theory has been strong with the finding that eating fewer calories increases an individual's lifespan. One of the most convincing arguments for this is the population of centenarians of Okinawa Japan. They have been a well-studied population for the reason that their rates of cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, dementia and other chronic diseases are unusually low. Even when their genetic factors are taken into account, this aging population presents an ideal model of how lifestyle habits impact longevity. And one of the consistent habits of this group is their low caloric intake. Direct evidence of this positive impact has been demonstrated from blood samples of Okinawans. These elders had low blood levels of free radicals. They also showed significantly lower levels of lipid peroxide (a byproduct of degraded fats) as compared with their western counterparts, which supports that they suffer from less free radical induced damage. The Okinawan diet represents a caloric intake of roughly 20% less than the mainland Japanese diet without any degree of malnourishment and it seems to be working for them.

The human studies in Okinawa have bolstered the research on non-human primates and rodents that have seen marked improvements in lifespan with low calorie diets. We also know that these centenarians are successful at managing stress, getting quality sleep, exercising and eating nutritious food. They have a strong sense of community and commitment to "ikigai" or living with a sense of purpose, so certainly no aspect of their lifestyle can be ignored. However, our own attention to our general overconsumption of food is rather underscored. It not only brings us back to the topic of serving size, but the need to slow down at our meals and savor the gift of food. (see our blog on "small plates") Start with 100 to 200 calories at a time and obviously, choose the "empty" ones first such as soda and scones. Ultimately, the goal would be to maintain a diversity of plant foods with smaller servings of animal protein and fat, particularly avoiding red meat consumption. It can be a profound relief for the body to not have to work so hard to process so much food and deal with the "meltdown" from excess.

Healthcare Reform - What Does It Mean to You?

There are many presumptions about how these new healthcare reforms are impacting the extent and quality of care for our country. While no approach to medical care is going to provide the one-size-fits-all solution that we would love to have, many of these changes will alleviate the burden for the consumer. In addition, they are asking more of the insurance companies and easing businesses into meeting certain standards to keep their employees receiving good quality benefits. Ultimately this lightens the load on the taxpayers, the states and the federal government.

Many of the reform measures will not take place until 2014. There are a few key areas that have brought up debate, but what is happening is really quite black and white.

* At no point will you be forced into a plan you don't want or have to choose a doctor that you do not want to work with.

* There will not be any subsidies for illegal immigrants to purchase health insurance.

* Our current administration will not be compiling a federal health record on citizens. There will, however, be incentives offered to doctors to record and report certain vital statistics so as to facilitate a greater understanding of national health trends.

* What is happening to our health care system is not socialization. In fact, the new law relies heavily on private insurance companies and employers to provide coverage. This will increase competition among insurance providers and likely give customers lower premiums.

* By 2014 all plans will have to meet minimum requirements and large employers will have to provide coverage or pay significant fines.

* There are certainly increases in premiums that have already been occuring as a result of concommitent increases in health care costs. Insurers will now be required to cover preventive care without cost-sharing which may play a minor role in increases for next year. However, this reform has energized federal and state officials to force down large increases that insurers are working hard to push through.

* There seems to be a scare that Medicare benefits will be sharply cut when in fact this is not the case at all. The new law is designed to slow down the rate of increases in payments to health care providers. The only possible change to benefits will be to beneficiaries of subsidies for things such as gym memberships or dental care.

* It is feared that the law will force states to expand their Medicaid programs. However it will be the federal government who will be picking up the bulk of vulnerable Americans who are not covered. Having some means of insurance coverage for these individuals is important, as the state and taxpayers will have to bear the burden of costly emergency room visits without it.

* A few of the most beneficial aspects of the new plan is the lack of cost-sharing for preventative treatments which encourages individuals to seek help for minor health issues before they are significant and costly. Young adults who cannot find employment can stay on their parents plan so they remain protected. And lifetime benefit limits are gone.

These measures have in fact helped in the bigger picture. Don't take our word for it, look at it for yourself to see what is really happening.

How to Make That Healthy Diet Happen!

A healthy diet is the one that we apply to our daily routine that nourishes us both physically and mentally. Our relationship to food can be one that truly enhances our health, but the sad reality for too many is that this relationship has a disconnect. As Michael Pollan impresses upon us in his book, "In Defense of Food", we will benefit from making food choices that bring thoughtfulness and pleasure back to eating. And his overwhelming message is to "eat food". The meaning of this is that we consume food that is grown by caring farmers in healthy communities without the interjection of food science. Fresh whole foods should be the choice we make and it is prepared with good intention and shared with loved ones in a spirit of gratitude and enjoyment. Not tossed to us through the window of a fast food restaurant.

We know that this paradigm shift in our relationship with our food is huge and that this process of change may need to take place slowly. So if we decide to embrace this approach, what are the steps to take that make this a reality? First and foremost, you must envision that your health is a priority! The steps you need to take will only follow if you hold this belief to be true in the process of making change!

* When we are making dietary changes to add more fresh fruits and veggies, there is a period of time to commit to that will get your taste buds over the hump of trying something new. Rather, your brain starts to make a different association to the new and healthy food that will allow you to enjoy these new flavors more after a period of time. Give yourself at least 1 month before you try a small nibble of the forbidden food that you used to crave whether it's fat or sweets.

*Start to view food in a different light. Find gratitude for each meal you eat and view the healthy food as your bounty rather than seeing the sweets you aren't eating as deprivation. Our brain function is intimately and powerfully associated with our consumption of food, so tap into the positive association that helps us make better choices.

*Are you aware that at least 20 percent of digestion occurs before food even hits our stomach? This is called the Cephalic Phase of gastric secretion and it results from the sight, smell, thought or taste of food. What this means is that the slower we eat our food, the better we enable our digestive system to process and ultimately assimilate nutrients. Enjoying food with loved ones in a slow and thoughtful manner does more than just provide socialization, it actually nourishes us better.

*When we can't afford the time for preparation, use a night or weekend to prepare extra food that you can bring with you for lunch or eat on a busier evening. Making crockpot meals are easy and leave you with quite a bit of left overs for later. At this time, you can also make packs of healthy snacks to bring with you to work or on outings with friends and family. But don't sacrifice the time you should take in eating it mindfully.

*Practice, practice and practice. Preparing different recipes will give you a repertoire of different meals to choose from and the process of preparing for yourself will become more joyful over time. Use the following link for a cancer dietician who will give you outstanding tips and recipes that will make your cooking easier and more nutritious.

http://rebeccakatz.com/

Should you fall short at any time in the process, return to step one...prioritize and believe in your health!

10 of the Healthiest Foods - Preventing Disease

In certain circles it seems that it is understood that the diet plays a crucial role in increasing health and longevity. However, the attitude that no matter what you eat you will get sick still has a strong foothold. This is particularly true when the topic of cancer comes up. Disease never has one definitive cause, but we have come to understand with the tremendous quantity of research available that what we ingest has a profound impact on both the incidence and course of a disease. This should not come as a surprise, since our history as a species was to live alongside the plant kingdom that we have developed such synergy with. In the spirit of prevention, enjoy these 10 fabulous foods that are bound to improve your health and help you fight and ward off disease!

1) Cruciferous vegetables which includes broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, arugula, cabbage, bok choy and radishes

2) Green tea

3) Berries of all kinds

4) Citrus fruits

5) Asian mushrooms which includes shitake, maitake and reishi

6) Spices such as turmeric for controlling inflammation and cinnamon for controlling blood sugar

7) Nuts and seeds and particularly walnuts, almonds and chia seeds

8) Garlic and the other veggies of the allium family such as onion, shallot and chives (cut these veggies up 10 minutes before cooking to get the greatest benefit)

9) Legumes

10) Dark leafy greens such as kale, collards and beet greens

BPA - In Your Mouth?

Bisphenol A or BPA is a chemical used to make plastics and is known to be an endocrine disruptor. This means it causes a shift in the balance of estrogen by attaching itself to estrogen receptor sites, leaving your bodies own estrogen without a place to bind to and creating elevated levels in your blood. This is a known risk factor for developing reproductive cancers. So why is this chemical in our mouths?

Well...it may not be, but if you have had dental sealants at some point then the chances are good that you have had some exposure through this route. Derivatives of BPA are found in dental sealants and even though BPA is rarely used itself, it may be present as a by-product of other ingredients used to manufacture these dental composites. Blood levels are known to spike to 88 times higher than normal levels immediately following a procedure. The good news about BPA in sealants is that it does not continue to contaminate the body for long periods after they are placed. However, we don't truly know what level of exposure is the threshold for developing problems later in life. So it is wise to take precautions when going to the dentist. This is particularly true for children, as their developing bodies are highly susceptible to cellular disruption. Follow these basic guidelines to decrease exposure if sealants are absolutely necessary.

- Ask the dentist to use a sealant that is made with bisphenol GMA rather than bisphenol DMA.
- Avoid using them during pregnancy.
- Have your dentist wash off the surface of the filling after it is set or wipe it with a cottom swab to prevent the chemical from entering the saliva.

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

Breast cancer was not likely on the mind of the creator of this ancient proverb. However, as discoveries in oncology are made this truth seems to apply in multiplicity. As we head into the month of October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we would like not only to honor the lives of breast cancer patients and survivors, but the goal of preventing this disease. If a women has a genetic pre-disposition it makes adherence to prevention practices that much more important as we strive to keep these genes from expressing the tendency for the disease. In reality, only 1 in 10 women truly have a genetic marker for breast cancer. So why is the incidence so remarkably high? It certainly appears that environmental factors play an ever important role and even though it is argued that "the smoking gun" has not been found, many researchers have combed through the evidence to see the strong links. The European Union as a whole have made environmental and public health a priority by using the "precautionary principle" to guide regulation of chemicals and this approach may very well be saving lives. According to the State of the Evidence, a report that is compiled by prominent researchers and presented by The Breast Cancer Fund, the trend of breast cancer incidence follows anything but a natural progression. In the U.S., according to this report, "a women's lifetime risk of breast cancer increased steadily and dramatically over the decades of the 20th century. Between 1973 and 1998, breast cancer incidence rates in the United States increased by more than 40 percent. Today, a woman's lifetime risk of breast cancer is one in eight."

The onus for the prevalence of breast cancer cannot be placed on any one factor. The key to supporting the concept of prevention is to assess the research as it is and as it comes forth to change the course of this disease. Let's look at a few key actions and behaviors that can make a difference for decreasing your risk.

1. Getting 5 hours of moderate cardiovascular exercise each week.

2. Eating nine servings of fruits and vegetables a day which is not as difficult as you think! Also, make blood sugar control a key part of your daily diet.

3. Reducing your exposure to toxins in the environment by improving water and air quality and using consumer goods such as beauty and cleaning products that are free of problematic chemicals. Eat a mostly organic diet.

4. Getting a consistent 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night and making time for stress relief on a daily basis.

We will be honoring the month with newsletters devoted to this key concept of prevention. Please stay tuned for more in depth information on how to create a healthy environment for you and an anti-environment for cancer. If you are not on our e-mail list and would like to receive our newsletter, please e-mail us at wellness@healthlinksclinic.com.

Got Pain? Use This Spicy Number!

Capsaicin is the phytochemical found in chili peppers which is what gives them their heat! It belongs to a group of plant chemicals called capsaicinoids which have demonstrated the ability to relieve pain topically. Consumption of capsaicin, which can be in high quantities in cayenne, will produce a euphoric sensation caused by the release of endorphins. This may be one reason that some individuals seem so addicted to eating hot peppers to the point of almost crying!

Capsaicin works by activating the chemical terminals of sensory nerves. This increases membrane permeability to elements like calcium and sodium, which trigger the release of substances responsible for the sensations of pain we experience. For example, the pain inside our mouths that occurs when we eat a habanero chili pepper. When we consume hot peppers, this occurs at a high rate to the point where the cells responsible for pain are overloaded and temporarily shut down. Because the effect is not permanent it provides a mechanism of pain relief that is safe for the body.

What is it used for? Capsaicin is used for joint, muscle and general soft tissue pain relief. Cancer patients need to use caution particularly when there is any type of nerve pain as it could aggravate the discomfort. However, it is very effective as a short-term solution to arthritic pain, muscle discomfort and other soft tissue structures. Capsaicin comes in the form of a cream with the recommended starting dose of 0.025%. It can elicit quite a burning sensation so apply a small amount and adjust as you understand your tolerance level. If the above dose is ineffective you can use a cream with 0.075% capsaicin. You can find it at drug stores and health food stores. However, purchasing it at a health food store may be the way to go as the ingredients list may contain less of the undesirable chemicals to be wary of.

So give it a try, could make a world of difference for your pain!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month was founded in 1985 with the original goal of promoting mammography as an effective tool in saving the lives of women. We think it's aim should be ever bigger as we discover that this disease is multi-factorial in origin.

The environmental causes of breast cancer are many. Poor diet, environmental toxicity, lack of physical activity and few outlets for stress that our bodies are poorly prepared to relieve; are forcing too many women to face a life threatening disease at a very young age. According to a large body of evidence, only 1 in 10 women have a genetic pre-disposition for developing breast cancer. The issue isn't one of blame, it's one of awareness that gives us the answers for increasing survivorship and decreasing cancer incidence.

In October's newsletters, we will be highlighting the strong evidence base that supports the lifestyle habits that truly make a positive impact on the course of this disease. First, we will present the data on the role of nutrition and how you can adopt an eating plan that supports this. Secondly, we will show you why we know that exercise is a critcal player in cancer survivorship and how you can incorporate the right kind to help you feel and be more healthy. Please stay connected so we can educate and make a difference in our community and the larger community of breast cancer survivors. Please share Healthlinks with your friends and family so that we may help those impacted by cancer to survive and thrive in their journey!

The Gluten and Dairy Connection - More Than Coincidence?

Doesn't it seem that whenever there is a request for gluten-free, it is often accompanied by a request for dairy-free? If this is familiar to you, there is more to it than just a trend. The collection of health issues associated with gluten encompass a number of different symptoms and the way these are classified depends on the area of the body that is affected. In addition, some health care practitioners will only acknowledge certain manifestations of the gluten response. Celiac disease is diagnosed when the villi of the small intestine are damaged by gluten, as shown through biopsy. Villi are tiny finger-like projections on the lining of the intestine that help "grab" nutrients so they may be absorbed. There are a number of blood tests to determine if the immune system is reacting to wheat and possibly some components of gluten, but the tests are far from standardized giving rise to a lot of confusion as to how to assertain the correct diagnosis. These tests are where the gray area of gluten intolerance comes into play. However, we are learning that gluten reactions are manifesting in such varied ways that it seems hard to keep pace with these new discoveries.

For many individuals who have discovered a reaction to gluten, whether by trial and error or diagnosed through testing, are finding they are not very tolerant to dairy products as well. These reactions can vary from digestive upset to skin problems to respiratory dysfunction. There is, in fact, a reason for this relationship. The sugar lactose, which is found in milk products, must be digested using the enzyme lactase. Lactase is produced on the tips of the intestinal villi. If the villi are damaged which will initially involve the very end of these structures, then the necessary enzyme is unavailable leading to digestive upset. Another possible mechanism of dairy intolerance is the protein casein which is found in most dairy products. In individuals who have a negative reaction to gluten, the integrity of the intestinal lining is often compromised which creates a condition called "leaky gut" or increased intestinal permeability. This condition allows large protein molecules through the wall of the intestine rather than their broken down components of amino acids. This protein exposure to the immune system is not normal with a healthy digestive tract and can lead to a heightened immune response and subsequent damage to healthy tissue in the body. So the correlation between these 2 food stuffs is more than trend.

If you are noticing a change in your digestive health, or other unexplained symptoms, it is wise to consider consulting with a dietician who can identify possible triggers. Gluten is a food component whose effects may be vastly underestimated. And the cascade of effects are difficult to trace back if the reaction has been long standing. Making a journal of food consumption and symptoms may help you see patterns that validate taking action to get yourself tested. Talk to a dietician who you know has researched this topic exhaustively. This issue is much broader than has been established in the health news. Be diligent so you don't suffer when there are solutions that can bring you vibrant health once again.

Expert Advice: Flying and Lymphedema

You may have seen the NY Times article on this very subject. For individuals with cancer, lymphedema can occur which presents a very significant side effect that may require lifelong maintenance. Lymphedema refers to a swelling of the limbs that occurs as a result of an impairment to the lymphatic system of the body. This can occur in one or more limbs and results in a blockage of lymphatic fluid that builds up if the problem is not addressed. Patients who have had lymph nodes removed, such as patients with breast cancer or those with abdominal cancers, are at increased risk for developing this condition. The diminished capacity of the system due to removal of part of the filtration system is the direct culprit and the area from which the nodes were removed cause the regional dysfunction.

The lymphatic system is critically important to the function of our bodies. It includes lymph nodes and vessels as well as the spleen, thymus, tonsils and bone marrow through which fluid is filtered. The function of lymph fluid is to carry proteins and other waste products back to the blood that are too large to diffuse through the capillaries. The larger blood vessels can then carry these to our waste processing organs. The nodes are charged with the job of filtering bacteria and other foreign matter from the fluid and are ingested by white blood cells. When lymph nodes are removed this processing capacity is reduced and because our lymphatic system has no pump, special care may be necessary to be certain it functions properly. Our blood is circulated by our heart. Our lymph, however, does not have it's own pump. It is circulated by the action of our muscles and deep breathing. Any added load on an altered system can present a challenge. Lacerations, use of needles and even blood pressure readings in a limb near the site of node removal can pose a problem that can lead to lymphedema. Flying has been another topic of discussion that concerns individuals whose lymph systems have been compromised. So what are the necessary precautions one should take?

According to Healthlinks Director and lymphedema specialist Trudy Turvey, "the studies done of late have shown that the risk for developing lymphedema is minimal. The most at risk individuals are those with a high number of lymph nodes removed and those who are overweight. However, there is no study showing that wearing a sleeve prevents lymphedema".

Trudy Turvey, MSPT has specialized in the treatment of cancer patients for over 10 years. If you have lymphedema or are at risk for developing it, take heed of her advice to negate any possibility of having a problem on your next trip.

- move when on the plane
- do your ROM exercises
- avoid lifting your suitcase, especially if you are not lifting that much in an exercise program
- drink lots of water
- avoid salty foods and alcohol.

Safe travels!

Physical Activity and Companionship

Let's face it, when it comes to habitual behavior, birds of a feather tend to stick together. While this may not always be the case, it is more often the rule rather than the exception. So when it comes to staying true to your exercise routine, why not find a flock that helps you reach your physical fitness goals?

For many individuals the desire for movement is an intrinsic drive. For others, external factors play into their commitment to keeping themselves active. And given the pace and expectations of our society, even those who are driven to exercise may find their schedules disrupted by many other demands. Extrinsic motivation is being motivated to achieve or do something because of external rewards. While it is ideal to be the individual who inherently loves to move their body, extrinsic rewards can reinforce behavior and provide people with feelings of self-worth or competence. In this way, extrinsic rewards help to boost intrinsic motivation. Extrinsic rewards are good things that can be healthy and helpful for people who are working toward goals. In this way, exercise partners are the rewards that can help you stay true to a commitment long enough to establish a healthy routine. The benefits that are reaped from a consistent exercise program, such as weight loss and increased energy, may be the intrinsic factors that keep you coming back for more.

To conceive of the possible benefits of an exercise partnership, a schedule should be laid out that starts with smaller realistic goals. And above all else, make a commitment to yourself and your partner that when a plan is made it is set in stone. The type of exercise is only pertinent in that it is a form of movement that you and your partner enjoy. Biking, walking, hiking and swimming will all suffice. Whether or not you two are able to share the days gossip is not truly the key, although that may be motivation for some. The most elemental component of this approach is the accountability that you provide for eachother. Humans are strongly driven to receive approval from their closest companions, so find someone who fits that bill.

If you are having trouble finding a similar bird, perhaps a hiking or walking club will help you find the like-mindedness you need. Follow the link to see if you can find an exercise partner in your area. http://www.findanexercisepartner.com/

Middle-Aged Life - Hormones In the Driver's Seat

After roughly 45 years of age or right about the time most women are moving into perimenopause, maintaining a healthy body weight becomes a greater challenge. The simple answer to why this is so, is hormones. As estrogen levels in a woman's body decline, so does metabolism. However, the cravings for carbohydrates and fats does not. According to clinical psychologist Dr. Deirdre Barrett, even though we have evolved our survival instincts are telling us "to sit in the lounge chair and eat chocolate".

We all know that estrogen is produced in the ovaries. However, it is also produced in the adrenal glands and in the fat and muscle cells both before and after menopause. So it would follow that there will be some variability in estrogen levels depending upon ones diet and body composition, not just the capacity of the ovaries to produce it. So it is not a forgone conclusion that you must gain weight when going through menopause, even though it presents the need for increased awareness of good health habits.

So what are the key habits that can create the internal environment to combat the belly bulge?

1. Don't use your gut as the guide for eating. It's not quite telling the truth. Become more familiar with portion size and be modest with your intake of high calorie/high sugar foods and make refined foods the major exception to the rule. Stick to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables with a bit of healthy fat (olive and coconut oils) and protein.

2. Be aware of what you are eating. Don't make this a sub conscious act that occurs in the car or in front of the television. According to Seattle health coach Jennifer Lovejoy the simple act of paying attention puts you in control of your food and not the other way around. Keeping a food diary also helps you more accurately assess your caloric intake. There are weight loss applications on the iPhone and iPad that can aid in this approach. Set short-term, attainable goals that you can be proud of such as decreasing your daily calories by 100 to 150.

3. Do the diet interval. Consult with a dietician to determine your RMR or resting metabolic rate which gives you information about your caloric needs for the day. Then use this information to estimate how many calories you need to cut for the week based upon your current diet. Let's say, for example, that you need a calorie deficit of 2100 calories a week to remain at your RMR; rather than decrease calories by 300 a day, do 2 and 3 days of reducing by 350 to 400 and then have 2 splurge days reducing by 150 to 200. This will feel less like deprivation. And for as much as you can, make the indulgence an exotic fruit or good quality chocolate, rather than purely nutrient deficient food like donuts.

4. Find your breath! Enjoying deep breathing exercises for at least 5 minutes a day will reduce stress and increases oxygen flow in the body. This act alone can help to normalize your metabolism.

5. Make a commitment to the goal. According to Dr. James O. Hill, cofounder of the National Weight Control Registry, the 6,000 successful weight loss registrants made dramatic changes and a big commitment.

6. Awareness in all aspects of life is crucial to living out a healthful existence. Take each intention and each action to heart and believe in the process. When the plan does not work out perfectly there is more room for making adjustments and ultimately staying the course.

Farm Life

We are all too aware that cancer is a disease that impacts our society as a whole. And clearly the roots of this illness are multi-factorial from the standpoint of environmental influence. A lack of connection to nutritious whole food, exposure to environmental toxins, poor water quality and too little social kinship may be to blame for increasing disease. If we find it arguable that humans are innately social and emotional creatures, then we may draw a link between our capacity to be healthful and the authenticity of our relationship to others and the physical environment in which we live. The agrarian lifestyle is one that seemed to suit us well as we had access to good food and a community to draw companionship from. While industrialization has brought us much to be grateful for and advances not otherwise conceived of, it also presented such a dramatic shift that the human genome could not keep up with.

So this shift we are seeing back towards eating local foods stands to benefit not only the health of the land, but those who live on and draw from the abundance that it provides. Understanding and being connected to our food is a practice that is critical for us to thrive on many levels. Local food can be grown without or with minimal use of pesticides as native crops are more robust and resistant to pests. Local farming practices use techniques that preserve the quality of the soil and thereby the quality of nutrients of the plants that grow in it. And not the least of the benefits of community farming is the relationship that the consumer has to the individuals that work to bring food to the table. The gratitude that comes from that relationship has a way of contributing to the well-being of the individual in ways that can scarcely be quantified. To know your farmer is certainly to know your food and the way in which what we put in our bodies profoundly alters the course of our health.

The movement towards this approach is far more than a trend. Heads are being turned in every arena as the research mounts that presents the data about the nutrition inherent in foods grown in their native environment, without pesticides and the healing powers of the body when there are stronger social ties.

For more information about how you can make this shift to connect to your local farm life, visit the USDA's website on the topic.

http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/knowyourfarmer?navid=KNOWYOURFARMER






http://mymammashatfarmcsa.com/Photos_IU0X.html

Is Grilling a Healthy Way To Go?

The answer to this question is that it can be and that it may not be. This depends mainly on what is being tossed on the grill. For years we were told that grilling was a healthy alternative to frying or sauteing meat because the fat was drained in the cooking process leaving the lean protein remaining. While the loss of fat is a bonus, the gains that are made in carcinogenic compounds put this form of cooking in the minus category unless you are cooking vegetables.

All meat, which includes beef, pork, lamb, poultry and fish, will develop certain chemical compounds in the cooking process that are known carcinogenic agents. This may occur with any form of cooking, but is of particular concern when the temperature is exceedingly high as with grilling. The two compounds that develop are HCA's or heterocyclic amines and PAH's or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. HCA's form in the cooking process due to the reaction of the amino acids and the creatine which are both found in the muscle of animals. PAH's, on the other hand, develop when the fat drips off the meat and into the heating element or flame and generates smoke that contains these compounds that are then re-deposited on the cooking meat. So the surface of meat is where we will find the greatest concentration of both HCA's and PAH's due to exposure to the smoke and the high temperatures. In addition, the charring that occurs contains the highest concentrations of these carcinogens. And the results of a nutrition study conducted in Europe showed us just how problematic this can be. A link was drawn between HCA's and a precursorous tumor of colorectal cancer. Several other studies have linked this carcinogen with a higher risk of breast, stomach and pancreatic cancer.

This does not mean that the grill should be tossed in the trash. However, following these tips could save your body a bit of damage.

- Place meats on the highest level farthest away from the heating element or flame.
- Keep the temperature low, which also applys to cooking meat using other mediums.
- Avoid charr on the meat and trim any that might develop.
- Trim the fat off and select leaner cuts to prevent the dripping of fat.
- Flip the meat often.
- Marinate meat which can reduce a significant quantity of HCA formation. The key is to use a marinade that has acid in it, such as citrus, vinegar or wine.
- And most important of all, GRILL VEGETABLES! And lots of them! Both fruits and vegetables do not produce HCA's or PAH's in the process of grilling. And eating tons more fruits and vegetables is the direction we should all be heading in anyway.

Follow A Better Queue - Small Plates

A portion of food and a serving size are no longer one in the same these days. As featured in our July 15the newsletter, the size of our plates have gone from 8.5 inches to 12 inches in the span of 30 years. Along with the size of our dinnerware has gone the size of our portions and consequently, the size of the American waistline. Alex Bogusky made this discovery when he purchased a 1940's lakehouse of which the plate rack, to his dismay, would not fit his dinner plates. This led him to research about this change in our eating habits that have contributed to a costly change in our health. His book, "The 9-Inch Diet", discusses the difference in attitude and approach towards food that are distinctly American. Our July 22 cooking class on Spanish Tapas highlighted how eating from small plates or appetizer style, translates into improved health and decreased obesity for an entire population. More is clearly not better and quality is the key.

According to The National Cancer Institute, obesity and physical inactivity may account for 25 to 30 percent of several major cancers which are colon, breast (postmenopausal), endometrial, kidney, and cancer of the esophagus. Some studies have indicated that obesity may be linked to gallbladder, ovarian and pancreatic cancer as well. Our society clearly has a problem on it's hand with the epidemic of obesity from every aspect of human health. The financial, emotional and social cost of poor health habits are draining the American population of their inherent vitality. Having a schedule that does not allows for physical activity and meaningful leisure time is one big part of the picture of obesity. Having a poor relationship with our food is certainly another.

As a society, we are highly sensitive to visual queues. While this is not all bad, it's a problem when it comes to feeding our bodies. The messages that we are recieving about when we have consumed enough calories at any given time should be coming from internal functions that have nothing to do with vision. The hunger hormone is called ghrelin and is primarily found in the cells of the stomach lining, but also in various areas of the brain. Ghrelin is very high before we eat so as to signal the body that it needs nourishment and then it drops significantly after we eat. The counterpart hormone of ghrelin is leptin, released by the adipose (surface fat) tissue. Leptin is the "satiety hormone," as it provides the neuronal cells with satiation signals. Because we rely so much on visual queues for the decision to put down the fork, we are not in tune with these internal mechanisms that keep us from metabolizing way more than our share. If we are inclined to clean our plates, then a 12 inch plate versus an 8.5 inch plate is going to lead to overeating.

So what are some options if we are to adopt healthier eating habits? Control portion sizes, eat slowly and check in with your body while you are eating to pick up on the internal queues. Controlling portion size means dishing out an actual serving rather than something quite larger. Shop around for smaller plates which will make it easier for you to stick to this. Use these visuals for correct serving sizes.

1 slice whole grain bread or bagel - size of a hockey puck
1/2 cup cooked grain - size of a cupcake wrapper
3 oz lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs or legumes - deck of cards
1 tsp of healthy fat - tip of the thumb
1 piece of medium fruit - size of a tennis ball
1/2 cup berries, root veggies or other non-leafy veggies - size of a light bulb
1 cup raw leafy greens - size of a baseball

If there is any splurging to do, make it happen in the fresh veggie or fruit department where the calories are relatively low and the nutrient value is high. After we have dished up a true serving of food, it is up to us to savor the experience of eating a nourishing meal and enjoying the company of those with whom we are sharing it. If we take the time to eat a meal, our bodies hormonal queues will have time to act on us before we overeat. By pausing and breathing between bites, we will have the awareness of those signals. Combine this awareness and more appropriate visual queues and you have a recipe for healthy eating!

What's The Gut Got To Do With It?

In a nutshell...everything! The health of the gut is a determinant of healthy functioning of essentially every major system of the body. Normal functioning of the immune system depends on it as well as the endocrine, skeletal and nervous systems and the largest organ of our body, our skin. What challenges the healing of the digestive system is the fact that it reciprocally depends on the health of other systems to normalize. By the time we have discovered a condition that could have been largely initiated by dysfunction of the gut, the whole body is bound in this cycle of ill-health.

The immune system is particularly sensitive to what you ingest. Roughly 80% of the immune system is located within the digestive tract which means that its' optimal functioning impacts the capacity of the immune system to stay alert and ward off foreign invaders as well as not become overstimulated as in the case of autoimmune disorders. This systems capacity to make connections and initiate a successful attack is dependant upon having a healthy balance of gut flora or healthy bacteria. The native bacterial populations of the small and large intestine must be maintained for all this to occur. So how do we accomplish this? There are several ways that we can ensure the population of healthy gut bacteria and maintain other important digestive functions.

First of all, what you put in can profoundly effect that balance. The American diet is full of sugar and this has one of the most devastating impacts on the health of the gut. With the exception of an occasional weekly treat, sugar in the diet should be limited to a few servings of antioxidant rich fruits such as citruses or berries. It is important to consume at least 35 grams of fiber per day as recommended by the American Cancer Institute. This should consist of a combination of soluble fiber (found in apples, carrots, oats and legumes) and insoluble fiber (found in most vegetables, potatoes, fruits, bran, seeds and brown rice). Fiber is critical to maintaining the health of the intestines as it clears bacterial and other toxins that can disrupt the healthy flora that we need for processing of nutrients. Probiotics in the form of food is ideal to keep the healthy critters flourishing. We can get them from low-fat yogurt, miso, tempeh, kimchee, kombucha and kefir. Taking a supplemental probiotic is appropriate if there has been significant digestive problems such as leaky gut or colitis and may in fact be necessary to get you back on track.

How you eat is yet another component. Eating on the go is one of the most problematic habits that we Americans have. Our digestive system was not intended to shovel food through at lightening speed. The enzymes that are necessary to process food are simply not activated when we don't adequatly chew our food and are not recruited in high enough numbers further down the pike when food is moving too fast. Furthermore, the heighted stress of eating on the run sensitizes the gut which can lead to food allergies and a spiral of inflammatory reactions. So taking the time to slowly chew and enjoy your food is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.

What we put in our bodies and how we react to our environment likely constitutes the largest part of our health. For many of us, our digestive tract is the first system to feel the effects of this neglect and we will eventually end up paying with our health. This poor functioning leads to nutrient deficiencies and immune system unrest that would be better served by respecting the role of the gut in optimal health. So be kind to it by nourishing it with fresh whole foods and stress-free eating.

Mother Nature...A True Healer

For most of us, the feeling of a bit of sunshine on our skin, a gentle breeze across the face or the smell of the ocean is enough to drop our heart rates an automatic 10 beats per minute. Nature has a way of calming our nervous systems and bringing us to a place of hopefullness when the odds seemed to be stacked against us. For those of us who have felt this healing, we don't need an explanation as to why this is so. But the reality is, there are several obvious reasons for the benefits that can be bestowed on anyone who takes some time to let mother nature do her work.

One of the most profound impacts of the outdoors on human health is the relationship of the sun to vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D, which is synthesized in the skin when it is exposed to the UVB rays, is a critically important hormone precursor which has been shown to be an anti-carcinogenic agent. Scientific evidence has shown that high blood levels of hydroxyvitamin-D (form of D in the blood) are associated with decreased risk of colorectal, ovarian and breast cancer. In addition, that indescribable joy that most of us feel when we enjoy a day in nature may the effect of the sun on our neurotransmitters. A study conducted in 2002 showed that the brain produces more of the mood-lifting chemical serotonin on sunny days than on darker days. When we spend copious amounts of our time indoors, we miss this opportunity for our brain to produce these positive mood chemicals. In addition to altering your mood, low seratonin levels have been linked to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and heart disease. The benefits of nature have yet another role by profoundly impacting our parasympathetic nervous system. This branch of the nervous system is opposite of the fight or flight (sympathetic) reaction of the body. This means that the system goes into a more relaxed state and the internal organs receive more nourishment from the blood as it is not being diverted to the periphery for the fight and flight mode. The heart rate is not in an emotionally stressed state and blood pressure is reduced. The more time we spend in an unnecessarily heighted state of stress, the more wear and tear we sustain.

So clearly, the more time we are able to spend in connection with our natural world, the more we stand to gain from it. And our mode of action in the outdoors tends to be one that moves us so we are gaining the addtional benefit from exercising. If you are new to the world of outdoor activity, we invite you to find organizations in your area that safely guide beginning adventurers. Live by Living is one such organization in the Boulder area and they specifically cater to the needs of cancer survivors and their caregivers. This provides a remarkable opportunity not only to heal in nature, but to find camaraderie with those who are sharing the cancer experience. To learn more about what they have to offer, please visit their website at ... http://www.livebyliving.org/.

Beauty Products...How Low Can You Go?

In this world of marketing geniuses and the focus on the physical appearance of men and women, it is difficult to acknowledge the inner and natural beauty that we all possess. While good hygiene is important for health, the use of beauty products is certainly a personal choice, one that should be made without the influence of good advertising.

While the research on the role of synthetic chemicals continues to mount, the awareness of their harm is not reaching the public quite as it should. According to the Breast Cancer Fund, a 2007 survey by the Silent Spring Institute found that 216 chemicals have been identified as mammary carcinogens. Carcinogens can act on the body in a number of ways. They can cause damage to the cellular DNA, alter a cells metabolism or can act as endocrine disruptors by interfering with the normal action of hormone receptor sites. These chemicals which can be found in air, water and consumer products. Oddly enough, they are also found in the products that we put on our skin. While it is important to be aware of what chemicals are problematic in our beauty regimen, it may even be of greater value to simplify this as much as possible. Follow this link to find out what chemicals in your products have been linked to cancer.

http://www.pureprevention.com/documents/cosmetics_and_breast_cancer_2007.10.10.pdf

Better yet, look in your bathroom cabinet and see what you can go without. Simplifying this process will not only leave you with less steps, it will leave your body with less chemical burden. For healthy skin and hair think of the inside out first.
- Managing stress will regulate your hormone fluctuation which can be the root of a number of skin conditions not the least of which is acne.
- Limit direct sun exposure to 20 - 30 minutes for light-skinned individuals and 40 - 60 minutes for those with darker tones. Use protective clothing and hats and use a non-chemical sunblock that uses at least 7% zinc dioxide or titanium dioxide. See our sunscreen blog for more guidance... http://healthlinksclinic.blogspot.com/2010/05/great-sunscreen-debate-what-to-do.html
- Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and healthy fats like Omega-3 from fish oil and monounsaturated fats from extra virgin olive oil. The research on diet and skin health is not abundant, but there is some evidence that high sugar diets can lead to a loss of collagen in the skin which promotes premature aging. Also, several vegetables, particularly the cruciferous group helps the body to detoxify better so this may help reduce the detox burden on the skin.

Now that we have the internal environment settled we can consider much gentler products for the surface. Lily Organics, Pangea Organics and Burt's Bees make products with very recognizable ingredients which is one of the safest ways to go. If you use cosmetics, visit http://www.ewg.org/ and type in the product to determine a products' overall risk level and consider eliminating those at the moderate to high hazard level. For a simple 2 step homemade skin regime, consider the following 2 recipes.

Cleanser
In a glass jar pour a 1/2 cup boiling water over 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice and 2 tsp of fennel seeds. Let steep for 15 minutes and strain. Cool and store in refrigerator. Gently apply mixture over skin with a cotton ball and rinse with warm water after 2 minutes.

Lotion
In glass dropper bottle, mix an ounce of grapeseed oil or jojoba oil (found in beauty section of health food store) and 3 drops of lavendar essential oil. Gently massage over skin after cleansing.

And lastly, consider the inherent beauty that we all possess and take your beauty care regimen only as far as it helps your inner beauty shine!

Good News For Us! Bad News for BPA Manufacturers

The California Assembly approved a bill today that would ban BPA from use in containers used for children 3 and under. The bill awaits approval from California's senate and the governer. However, the senate already approved a similar bill last year, so they are expected to place their stamp on this one. If passed, California will join 6 other states that have already taken measures to protect children from this toxic chemical.

Exposure to this chemical is a problem for all of us, but of particular concern for children as the chemical profoundly effects the cells of humans during the time of develpment. BPA has been shown in several lab studies to induce mammary tumors in mice and is a known endocrine disruptor. This means that it fills estrogen receptor sites that would otherwise be filled by your bodies natural estrogen leaving high circulating blood levels. This is a known risk factor for reproductive cancers and because men have estrogen too, this means it is not just a women's issue.

Read about the bill by visiting the Breast Cancer Fund's website using the link below. And if you know anyone in California, encourage them to contact their representatives to push this bill through. Successful campaigns such as this stimulate the cascade of activism that can lead to legislation to protect us all!

http://www.breastcancerfund.org/media/press-releases/calif-assembly-approves-bpa-bill.html

Avoid The Dirty Dozen

In our June, 22 blog in 2009, we presented the Environmental Working Group's "dirty dozen" list. This list comprises the produce that has been tested high for pesticide residues. They came out with an updated list that has added just a couple of produce items to consider. Visit last years blog to get the skinny on why this is so important.

http://healthlinksclinic.blogspot.com/2009/06/pesticides-how-can-you-reduce-your.html

Here's the new list for your trip to the grocery store!

1. Celery
2. Peaches
3. Strawberries
4. Apples
5. Blueberries
6. Nectarines
7. Bell Peppers
8. Spinach
9. Kale
10. Cherries
11. Potatoes
12. Imported Grapes

Opa! What Is It About Olive Oil?

There has been much hubbub about the Mediterranean diet since the 1990's. This way of eating has remained popular because it is not one of the come and go fad diet's that suit the whim of creative marketing specialists. The health benefits are real and 100's of years of Meditarranean folk are proof of this. So what is it about this way of living that has so much value for human health?

The emphasis on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and healthy fats are certainly responsible for the beneficial effects as well as the smaller portions. In addition, the slow manner in which foods are consumed maximizes the function of the digestive system. One of the big players in this bounty is olive oil. And not just any kind, extra virgin olive oil is what provides a myriad of phytochemicals to benefit our bodies. Unprocessed olive oil is full of antioxidants and contains a high concentration of monounsaturated fats which are more stable and less likely to produce free radicals that damage our cells. Many researchers believe that it may help prevent breast and ovarian cancers through the action of oleic acid. This monounsaturated fatty acid is believed to suppress a gene that is responsible for over 25% of breast cancer cases. What's more, a meta-analysis of individuals with diabetes who consumed a diet high in monounsaturated fats were found to have improved fat profiles as well as improved blood sugar control. With the energy intake being controlled, no evidence was found that a diet high in mono's induced weight gain.

Making olive oil a staple in your diet is a good choice for your health particularly if you consume it in place of other unhealthy fats, such as trans-fats. It is important to understand that the health benefits of fats are increasingly lost the more the oil is processed. To avoid this, choose only extra virgin olive oil and make it organic when you can. Extra virgin comes from the highest quality olives from which you will reap the greatest benefits. When choosing recipes, be certain that the maximum cooking temperature is 350 degrees to preserve the fatty acids. Better yet, dribble it uncooked onto roasted veggies and salads.

If you would like to learn more about how to incorporate the Mediterranean style in your kitchen, join us for our first cooking class in 2010. We will present more helpful health information and ideas on how to prepare easy Greek meals. Visit our website for more details...
http://www.healthlinksclinic.com/classes.html

Food for Thought! Keeping It Local!

Eating food that has been grown locally is becoming an ever increasing trend. In the last ten years, local farmers markets have increased in number from 1,755 to over 3,700. Smaller farms with greater biodiversity and a trend towards minimal pesticide use are being made available to consumers. Is this with good reason? We think so.

While industrial farms have increased food yields, they have also increased the use of pesticides and fossil fuels and have decreased nutritious top soil. Local farming tends to support agricultural practices that negate the use of these harmful practices. They promote reduction of greenhouse gases because there is little energy cost for transport. They reduce the need for petroleum-based fertilizers and synthetic pesticides by using biodiversity methods and by it's very nature, it reduces the need for resource intensive packaging.

So what does this have to do with human health? Perhaps more than we will ever know, but there are certainly a few connections we can draw from what we know now. Many of the pesticides that are still in use today have been observed to cause endocrine (hormone) disruption in lab animals which has been linked to breast cancer. One such chemical, Atrazine, has a body of evidence that presents it's harmful effects on human health and yet it is still in use. The biodiversity of local farms creates a natural resistance to the invasivness of unwanted plants and insects so you don't get exposed to these toxic chemicals. In addition, many food containers that are used in manufacturing contain BPA which has been linked to the initiation of reproductive cancers. The inherent nature of buying local produce negates the need for this middle-man step. And lastly, if local farms use growing techniques that align with organic practices then the nutritional value of their food is likely to be greater than that which traveled over 1,000 miles to reach your plate. See our blog "Why Organic?"...
http://healthlinksclinic.blogspot.com/2010/03/why-organic.html
Many of the local farms may not be "certified organic" because the cost of certification is out of reach for many of the smaller operations. However, they may use good farming practices that fit this healthier bill. Ask your local farmer if they avoid the use of chemical pesticides, GMO seeds or fertilizer from animals that have been treated with anti-biotics or hormones. If so, this is a good choice for you to keep it more nutritious and keep your "body burden" of toxins on the low side.

To learn more about community farming or to find one locally, visit http://www.localharvest.org/.

Fending Off Cancer With Your Fork!

On Tuesday, June 8, the third of our classes in the Cancer Toolbox Series was held at Boulder Community Hospital. The class entitled "Fending Off Cancer with Your Fork", was presented by Suzanne Dixon, MPH, MS, RD. As a registered dietician, Suzanne treated thousands of patients at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center. And as an epidemiologist, she has combed through the litany of research on cancer and the value of a nutritious diet. She is the author of about.com's colon cancer blog and creator of the award-winning website cancernutritioninfo.com.

Suzanne opened with a thoughtful approach to the question of why to eat healthy. "If you are what you eat, do you want to be made up of Big Macs?" She highlighted the clear picture of how a plant-based diet rich in whole foods can be a powerful tool in both the prevention and treatment of cancer. Her presentation was a concise and intelligent analysis of the research available on cancer and nutrition which points in the direction of using food as medicine along with traditional therapies. This was perhaps the most impactful component of the talk. It seems that for every study that lists the accolades of whole fruits and vegetables, the media presents a contrary study that appears to nullify the former claims. With the keen insight of a dietician and epidemiologist, the real value of the studies was brought to light. Several of the studies that have been sighted by the media that claim that a diet high in fresh fruits and veggies is not cancer protective, did not in fact study a diet as such. When the data was picked apart, it was discovered that they were evaluating a diet that amounted to no more than a few servings a day. This is hardly representative of the nutrition plan that is being highly advocated in progressive cancer care.


Eating no less than five servings of fresh plant foods is the ticket that provides humans with the powerful phytochemicals (plant chemicals) that have been studied extensively for their health protective benefits. Suzanne distinguished the difference between vitamins and minerals and phytochemicals. The former are the key nutrients without which we cannot live. Phytochemicals are the key nutrients that provide the means for us to live with health. They are the lock that fits the key to vibrant functioning of so many of our body systems. For example, lycopene which is found in tomatoes, pink grapefruit and watermelon has been found in high concentration in the prostate of men whose diet includes a high intake of this phytochemical and has been associated with a decreased risk of this type of cancer. You may gain these benefits and more from eating whole foods, not foods that have been pre-packaged and processed beyond identity. When people consult nutrition professionals they often fret about how to read food labels. If you are eating fresh whole foods, there is no label to read so no confusion about "good" vs. "bad". If you are eating a wide variety of plant-based foods, you will be getting a healthy dose of the vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that your body needs to thrive.

So then what do we have to lose by adopting a primarily plant-based whole food diet? Nothing! Few people will be able to maintain a perfect diet, but creating the mindset that you are adding goodness and health rather than living in deprivation will help you to form a symbiotic relationship to what you put in your mouth. As Suzanne summed it up...make small changes everyday with the goal of 3/4 of the diet from plant foods, start whole and make it simple and don't get caught up in the menutia of nutrition specifics.

Want to learn more? Join us at Healthlinks Clinic on June 24th for the first of 4 of our Nutrition and Cooking Classes. Learn the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet and how to prepare satisfying meals! Call 303-443-1937 to sign up.

"Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food." Hippocrates, 337 BC

The Government is Now Talking About It..Cancer and the Environment!

There is a buzz out there about the incidence of cancer and whether or not the genetic link is as strong as some people are led to believe or if there are environmental variables in question. This last topic is often ignored because the information is too overwhelming and often very conflicting. The prevailing attitude has been that there is nothing we can do about preventing cancer. How many times have you heard someone say, "everything causes cancer so why bother?" While that is an exaggeration, it is true that our environment is filled with toxic substances that can be responsible for the initiation and promotion of cancer. However, the doomsday proposition does not have to be such if we choose to take action.

In May, the President's Cancer Panel who reports directly to the president, published a 100+ page report on the relationship of environmental contaminants and cancer incidence. The panel was formed through a legislative act in 1971 to provide the president with scientific data that would impact the course of cancer prevention and treatment for the good of the public. The reality of the relationship of cancer and toxicity has been explored by small groups and individuals of researchers since the 1960's. The book Silent Spring first explored this when the author Rachel Carson presented the research showing the causation of synthetic pesticides and environmental harm and human disease. This marine biologist presented information that challenged the national view that pesticide use was safe and necessary and ultimately led to a grassroots movement that led to the creation of the EPA. Now, nearly 50 years later, we are still conservatively considering the harm of certain synthetic chemicals. This 2010 report is a landmark governmental move that will hopefully spur a closer look at how we are contributing to human disease. Read more about this topic through the breast cancer fund's website by clicking on this link...

http://www.breastcancerfund.org/media/press-releases/presidents-cancer-panel.html

We have several blogs that address these very issues. Please continue to follow us as we explore the science of this topic and how it can impact all of our health for the better.

The Great Sunscreen Debate! What to Do?

By now you have likely read it, listened to it or seen it on television...the debate over whether or not we are doing ourselves a favor or harm by using sunscreen. The approach of using some degree of sun protection is a good idea, but the way we have been going about it has clearly not been the skin disease panacea that we were aiming for. According to the National Cancer Institute, the incidence of malignant melanoma in the U.S. has increased by 50% among Caucasian women aged 15 to 39. This July 2008 report ruled out the possibility that increased detection accounted for the increase in numbers by noting the trend in increasing late-stage melanomas. So how is it that we are seeing higher numbers of skin cancer with the successful promotion of sunscreen?

There are several influential factors, but likely the issues revolve around misinformation about how to use these products and a sense of safety which cannot in fact be delivered by them. The sun emits 3 forms of ultraviolet radiation, UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC radiation is filtered by the earth's atmosphere so virtually none of it's rays reach the surface. UVA and UVB, on the other hand, reach the earth's surface and our skin must act to protect us from them. It has been recognized in recent years that the majority of sunscreens are not broad-spectrum, meaning that they only protect us from the effects of the UVB rays. These rays are responsible for the sunburn that occurs after long exposure and contributes to sun damage, premature aging of the skin and some forms of skin cancer. UVA radiation does not cause reddening of the skin and was once thought to be benign. It penetrates deeply into the dermal layers where it causes indirect DNA damage that has been associated with the development of malignant melanoma. This is perhaps why statistics show that sun-block users have had a high incidence of this deadly form of cancer. Using a sunscreen that blocks the UVB burn but lets the damaging UVA rays has given outdoor lovers a false sense of safety and clearly this has created a problem.

So the most effective way to protect against sun damage is to cover up the skin after 20 to 60 minutes of sun exposure depending upon your skin type. Darker complexions can tolerate slightly longer exposure times, although there are still potential risks of skin damage. This means using big brimmed hats and light clothing that covers up the limbs. Or heading into the shade is a sure way to limit the effects of ultraviolet rays. The other key is to use sunblocks that provide broad-spectrum protection using physical rather than chemical barriers. These physical barriers are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They will give a slightly pale appearance to the skin which is the physical block in action. Sunblocks that use chemical barriers tend to be poor at protecting against UVA rays. Additionally, these chemicals can be causative of other health problems such as endocrine disruption according to EWG, an environmental research and advocacy group. See last year's sunscreen blog on this topic...
http://healthlinksclinic.blogspot.com/2009/08/whats-in-your-sunscreen.html

On the flipside, we need a bit of sun so we can synthesize the critical nutrient, vitamin D. We just need to understand how to play it safe and not have a false sense of protection from poorly functioning yet well marketed products. Visit the link below to Environmental Working Group's website for a list of effective and safe sunscreens so you can enjoy the benefits of a bit of sunshine. Remember to use this option after you have found a way to cloth lightly and find some shade!
http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/

Take a Hike! Find a Bit of Healing in Nature

In Colorado we are fortunate to have weather that affords us a bit of outdoor time throughout the year. But spring ushers forth a diversity of plant life that can be healing to even the most downtrodden souls. It is in times of difficulty that we seem to benefit so profoundly from our connection to nature and most of us get a sense of stress release from being in the outdoors. For many in Colorado, this means a hard ride or a steep trek up the side of a mountain. The reality is, this is just one way to go. There are many easy and accesible trails in this area for those whose energy and exercise capacity is on the less aggressive side of the scale.

These following trails are relatively level and some have improved surfaces so there is little uneven ground to negotiate. And the flowers are just beginning to bloom! So get out and breath in the warm spring air and beautiful natural fragrances!

Follow the links for more information:

Pella Crossing - wide/level gravel trail in old quarry which is now a nature preserve
http://www.bouldercounty.org/openspace/recreating/public_parks/pella_cross.htm

South Mesa Trail - this southern end of the Mesa Trail is a wide/mild to moderate grade gravel trail that can access several other trails
http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3035&Itemid=1035

Anne U. White - single-track trail that is mostly level with some rocks to negotiate
http://protrails.com/trail.php?trailID=42

Beautifully Colorful Hair...Naturally!

Most women would love to maintain their hair's beautiful brown, red or blonde lustre forever. And of course the inkling to spruce up our hair, whatever the color, adds a nice spice to life. But at what cost? That depends entirely on which product you choose.

Hair dyes are popular with women of all ages and so the potential risk of toxicity is elevated with years of exposure to these chemicals. Nearly all salon brands are petroleum-based while some contain higher quantities than others. The biggest chemical offenders in hair dye products are coal tar (which is less common after the FDA's warning in 1993), PPD's, toluene, lead, resorcinol and ammonia and peroxide. The latter two seem relatively safe on their own, but are are toxic in combination. So how does this affect us? A 1994 report by the National Cancer Institute stated that dark hair dyes used over a long period of time increases the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma. A study published in 2001 in the International Journal of Cancer found that individuals who use dark hair dyes have twice the risk of contracting bladder cancer than those who do not. And in 1991 a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that hairstylists had triple the risk of developing breast cancer when they worked with hair dyes of any sort for five years or more, but did not draw a link with cancer and consumers.

So what does all of this tell us? It tells us that at some baseline level of exposure an individual's chances of getting cancer increases by some measurable amount. So most health professionals can agree that salon workers are at risk for cancer while consumers may be at risk. Given the tremendous number of environmental variables that play into the initiation and promotion of cancer, any additional insult to the body is a risk that none of us should take.

So is it growing gray gracefully or are there other options? If you intend on using permanent dyes, you should know that none of them are completely free of the above mentioned chemical offenders and so the elevated risk is there. There are semi-permanent dyes that still contain some combination of these chemicals, but tend to have more plant-based chemicals that reduce your exposure. The only truly safe hair coloring agents are those that are plant-based that color by coating the hair since it is the chemicals that are necessary to penetrate the hair shaft and make the color more permanent. Pure henna and other 100% pure botanical coloring products will be short-lived, but they are substantially easier on you hair and ultimately on the rest of your body.

The Environmental Working Group has a list of hair dye products that are rated in order of safety. If you choose not to go with 100% pure henna or other botanicals, this is a great resource for you to understand your relative risk. Visit the following website:

http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/browse.php?category=hair+color+and+bleaching

And then there is the other way of looking at it. Your beauty is more than skin (hair) deep and the beauty you exude will be the beauty people see, so stick with what you've got!

Mushrooms In The Raw? Bad Idea

While we are becoming increasingly aware of the tremendous medicinal properties of certain types of mushrooms, we should also understand that they can deliver a not-so-healthy punch if prepared improperly. And certain varieties of mushrooms don't contain the touted immune-boosting properties and yet they still contain high quantities of toxins.

So which ones do we choose and what do we do with them? It's a good idea to limit the consumption of mushrooms from the Agaricus family which includes buttons, portobellos and criminis. These varieties contain higher amounts of natural carcinogens called hydrazines and don't provide the profound immune boosting effects of other varieties such as shiitake, maitake, reishi, cordyceps and enoki. Furthermore, the button variety is often used raw in salads which means your exposure to this natural carcinogen is quite high. Cooking is thought to inactivate the hydrazines, yet there is some debate that heating may not remove all of these compounds. So sticking to the medicinal mushrooms is a wise choice to avoid this, but there is yet another consideration with these varieties. The composition of mushroom cell walls, called mycochitin, is different than the cellulose walls of plants and is difficult for humans to digest. However, cooking mushrooms makes them more digestible and also releases the beneficial nutrients within.

So adding medicinal mushrooms to your cooked meals is a marvelous idea. Eating raw is a recipe for problems.

Safe Chemicals Act of 2010 - What Does It Mean To You?

Did you know that there are over 80,000 chemicals that are used in consumer products in the United States of which the FDA has required safety testing of only 200? Could this lack of regulation be putting our health at risk? The answer is yes, according to the President's Cancer Panel as stated in a May 2010 report. This panel was established by the National Cancer Act of 1971 under President Richard Nixon. Since this time "there has been a systematic effort to minimize the importance of environmental factors in carcinogenesis," said Philip Landrigan, MD, MSc, director of the Children's Environmental Health Center at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. The report's authors wrote a letter to the president urging his office "to remove the carcinogens and other toxins from our food, water, and air that needlessly increase healthcare costs, cripple our Nation's productivity, and devastate American lives". This statement bites off a big chunk of the environmental problems associated with the many diseases that are becoming ever-increasingly common, including cancer. The report lends strength to a new bill that has been introduced in congress that all of us should learn more about.

The "Safe Chemicals Act of 2010" was introduced on April 15th by Senator Lautenberg and Representatives Waxman and Rush. This piece of legislation has been presented to give a major overhall to the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 which has been an ineffective bill which essentially allows manufacturers to walk all over the EPA. With the thousands of chemicals that are used daily by the American population, this kind of consumer protection is long overdue and will address the range of chemicals that the public is relatively unaware of. BPA is one chemical that has received attention with good reason. As the public becomes increasingly aware of the studies that are raising eyebrows among scientists and doctors the efforts to clean up our environment and our health will not go in vain. As of yet we can't quantify the role that chemicals in our beauty, cleaning products and other consumer goods play in the development of cancer. However, we do know that there is a critical role that these chemicals play in immune and endocrine dysfunction which have known links to the initiation of cancer. This piece of legislation, along with the President's Cancer Panel statement, are making big waves that need to keep coming if we are going to make strides is controlling the epidemic of cancer. Here are some of the key points of the new bill.

-Requiring chemical companies to develop and make publicly available basic health and safety information for all chemicals.

-Requiring chemicals to meet a safety standard that protects vulnerable sub-populations, including pregnant women and children.

-A new program to identify communities that are “hot spots” for toxic chemicals and to take action to reduce exposures.

-Expediting safety determinations and actions to restrict some of the most notorious chemicals, like formaldehyde, vinyl chloride, and flame retardants.

This bill could even go further to protect the American public from the carelessness of chemical manufacturers, but it makes a great shift from the lack of effective action of our government up til now. To read more about it, visit http://www.saferchemicals.org/2010/04/landmark-chemical-legislation-introduced-to-protect-the-health-of-american-families.html for more details.

Join Healthlinks Clinic for their May 20 seminar on "Detoxifying Your Beauty Products" for an indepth look at the dangerous chemicals we apply to our skin every day.

If you would like to follow the progress of this bill and related information, please e-mail us at wellness@healthlinksclinic.com.