GMOs: Your Right To Know

Do you know what you ate for dinner last night? Most people could answer “Yes.” But do you REALLY know what you ate? Perhaps not. Read on to learn more.

FREAKY FRANKENFOODS

Genetically engineered (GE) foods (also known as genetically modified organisms or GMOs) result when the genes from one or more organisms are placed into the genetic material of another organism. This is quite different from selective breeding. For example, there is a GE cabbage that produces scorpion poison to kill cabbage-eating caterpillars and a GE goat that produces spider web silk in its milk. There are GE animals, plants, insects and trees already out there. Did you know that? Do you think you have a right to know what’s on the dinner plate? If so, check out Oregon Right To Know, an organization that is working to make GMO labeling mandatory on food. This is not a ban. It’s about choice. Let food manufacturers be honest about the food they grow and produce so people can make informed decisions. It’s that simple.

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Some evidence suggests that GE foods may account for gluten-related disorders, autism and other chronic conditions that have increased since GMOs crept into our food in 1996. Children are most at risk because of their smaller, faster-growing bodies, general susceptibility to allergies, nutritional deficiencies and antibiotic-resistant diseases. The toxin used to grow GMO corn has been found in the blood of pregnant women and their unborn children. GMO seeds and pollen travel where they will; it is impossible to restrain them from contaminating other crops. Many of these plants are engineered to be tolerant of herbicides like Roundup leading to increased use. More poison in the fields harms the environment and leaves residues on our food.

WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT?

Certified organic foods do not contain GMOs. You can also look for the NON-GMO PROJECT logo that appears on many foods. You can ask questions at your local grocery store, farmers’ market and farm stand. Over 90% of Americans believe that GMOs should be labeled in the U.S. Over 60 countries worldwide already require it, including Russia and China. Monsanto supported GMO labeling in the United Kingdom, but they are spending millions of dollars at home to block it. Now it’s our turn to speak out. If you believe that people have a right to know what they are eating, please sign the petition that would allow Oregon voters to decide in November’s election. Please act soon, the deadline is July 3. It is true that we are what we eat. Are you a cabbage with a scorpion’s sting? Maybe you think that’s cool, and that’s okay. We just think we have a right to decide for ourselves.

NON-GMO SUPPLEMENTS

These companies have products that areNon-GMO, although not necessarily the entire line: New Chapter, the first supplements to be verified non-GMO. Barleans Crystal Star Evergreen Brand Flora Host Defense Garden Of Life MRM Natures Way Nutiva Planetary Herbals Source Naturals Trace Minerals Vega MegaFood Natural Vitality Nordic Naturals Organic India Rainbow Light Sun Chlorella Traditional Medicinals Yogi Tea

From Evergreen’s Archives: June 2014

Symphony Natural Health: Distinctive Products

New product lines are a dime a dozen on supplement shelves, but some of them truly stand out for their unique distinction. Whether it is a fresh take on an old stalwart or something completely new and previously unseen, it is always exciting to Evergreen staffers when we discover eye-opening new companies. Based in Utah, Symphony Natural Health boasts impressive distinctive products with clinical research behind them as well as an incredible attention to purity, education, and quality control. Symphony says, “Our products are also designed to create a symphony within the body, returning our cells, hormones, circadian rhythm, and body-detoxification to a state of optimal balance, restoring us back to harmony and health by addressing the root causes of distress, and by providing renewed support to our foundational health.”

Seed to Shelf & Beyond

Symphony controls every stage of production of their plant-based products, from seed to shelf. Through scientifically researched species and phenotypes as well as testing soil, geographic location and climatic conditions to customized harvesting and manufacturing processes for each individual herb based on its specific biology and chemistry, they ensure the highest quality. Products have several different organic certifications, are non-GMO, and comply with California’s stringent Proposition 65. All products are free of chemical extractives, excipients, alcohol, additives, colorings, preservatives, silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate as well as being free of gluten, dairy, soy, and corn. Plus, the capsules are vegan.

A New Twist on Old Standards

Symphony’s flagship products are maca supplements, but they are unlike any other maca products available. Maca has been shown to be an adaptogen and hormone balancer in both men and women. Director of Research Dr. Henry Meissner looked at the biology and chemistry of every plant individually and discovered how to optimize the efficacy of the full spectrum of active ingredients to have a therapeutic impact on customer’s health. In his research, Meissner discovered that different phenotypes of maca offer different chemicals and therefore specific benefits for certain types of people. Four different maca products is the result, with three offered for women and one for men. Femmenessence MacaHarmony for women offers hormone balance, menstrual and reproductive health. Regulating the menstrual cycle, decreasing the physical and emotional symptoms of premenstrual tension, and optimizing fertility all can be helped by achieving hormone balance. Femmenessence MacaLife offers support for perimenopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and waning libido. Femmenessence MacaPause offers hormone balance at 50, 60, 70 and beyond. Benefits can include heart and bone health, and healthy energy and libido. For men, Revolution Macalibrium supports normal hormone balance throughout life. Adrenal hormone balance (testosterone), sexual health, cardiovascular health, and healthy fertility are included in benefits.

Herbatonin: Plant-Derived Melatonin

Herbatonin, the first plant-based melatonin product offers an alternative to other melatonin which is either synthetic or derived from animal pineal glands. Herbatonin is a 100% natural plant extract from a particular variety of rice with a standardized level of 0.3 mg of melatonin per capsule, making it safe for extended use on a nightly basis. This melatonin is bio-identical to human melatonin. It supports sleep cycles, restful sleep and improved mental health. Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant and may help to stimulate the immune system. Let us show you how Symphony Natural Health products can help you harmonize your hormones.

HRG80 Red Ginseng: A New Beginning for an Ancient Herb

HRG80™ Red Ginseng: A New Beginning for an Ancient Herb

by Terry Lemerond, Founder and President of EuroPharma, Inc. Red ginseng (Panax ginseng) has been known to traditional practitioners and their patients for thousands of years. It is one of the world’s oldest botanical adaptogens, supporting daily physical and mental energy, a healthy libido, and resilience in the face of stress.* Despite this, ginseng has changed over the years. While all ginseng roots start out looking the same, the appearance may only be skin deep. Wild harvested ginseng is no longer a commercially viable option, and conventionally grown ginseng is tough on the environment, using up soil nutrients, soaking up pesticides and toxins through the soil, and eventually leading to deforestation. So the way ginseng is grown needs to change. And that is why we introduced HRG80 Red Ginseng to America. [Available in two formulas: Energy and Male Sexual Enhancement.]

The HRG80 Red Ginseng Difference

HRG80 Red Ginseng is hydroponically grown without pesticides and carefully tended in ultra-clean conditions. The roots of HRG80 ginseng are provided with the nutrients they need at exactly the right time and in exactly the right proportions. Just as importantly, the plants are challenged enough to concentrate levels of ginsenosides—especially rare, noble ginsenosides.

The Ginsenoside Difference

In fact, this special process helps HRG80 Red Ginseng deliver seven times the rare, noble ginsenosides than conventionally grown and processed ginseng supplements. And noble ginsenosides are important for true ginseng benefits. These compounds were a hallmark of wild-harvested ginseng, and may be responsible for much of the herb’s effects in years’ past. Additionally, the noble ginsenosides in HRG80 Red Ginseng have been shown to be up to 17 times better absorbed than classic ginsenosides in an in-vitro scientific (Caco-2) study. Classic ginsenosides certainly have their place. They are ultimately transformed into noble ginsenosides during the process of digestion and work synergistically with noble ginsenosides in their original form as well. However, age and other individual factors may limit the body’s ability to properly break down classic ginsenosides in the gut, so a combination of both types of compounds may yield more impressive results. That is why HRG80 Red Ginseng is a whole root ingredient, not an extract; every part of the root has value.

The Difference It Can Make to You

For daily resilience to stress, red ginseng is one of the best botanical adaptogens. It helps preserve mental and physical energy, and supports healthy hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, and serotonin, cortisol, and GABA levels.* Clinical studies have seen positive results that aside from addressing occasional fatigue or feelings of stress, red ginseng may be helpful for adults and children alike to support concentration and focus.* HRG80 Red Ginseng Energy brings the potential for red ginseng back to where it once was. It is the perfect addition to your regimen to help you navigate through your days with energy and vitality.* Terry Lemerond, founder and president of EuroPharma, Inc.®, a premier U.S. based dietary supplement company with over 100 products, has over 45 years of experience as a natural health expert. His wide-ranging expertise has included owning health food stores, founding dietary supplement companies, and formulating over 400 products. Among his many “firsts,” Terry was the first to introduce glucosamine sulfate, IP-6, standardized Ginkgo biloba, and the concept of botanical standardization to the U.S. market. His introduction of the curcumin products, Curamin®, the award winning safe and effective pain product and CuraMed® the number one product in its category, just passed the 10-year mark of continual success.** A published author and commentator on natural health, including a weekly radio show, Terry is in demand as a guest speaker and media commentator. Recognized as an industry leader with many awards through the years, he was most recently honored with an induction into the Hall Of Legends at Natural Products Expo West 2017. Terry’s dedication, energy, and zeal are all part of his on-going mission – to improve the health of America. **Other Herbal Formula Subcategory, Brand Rank and Product Item Rank, data ending 8/2/19). *THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT DISEASE.

The Multiplier Effect: Spending Our Dollars Locally

There is a phenomenon in economics called the Multiplier Effect. It refers to an increase in output greater than what was put in. A prime example of this is what happens to our dollars when they are spent locally. According to Tim Mitchell of Northwest Earth Institute, “A dollar spent at a locally owned store is usually spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the community,” and generates $5 to $14 in value within that community. Conversely, he says, that 80% of every dollar spent at a national store/restaurant “leaves town immediately.” (For more information, including 10 reasons to think local first, please see Buying Local and the Circulating Dollar.)

Keep Your Green in Eugene

Money is the lifeblood of the economy — it needs to circulate to keep the community healthy. Locally-owned businesses support other local businesses, charities, artists, entertainers, etc. They pay taxes to fund our schools and emergency responders and maintain our infrastructure. Each time a dollar is spent within the community, the entire community benefits, directly or indirectly. We’d like to introduce you to some businesses who manufacture products right here in Eugene, employing our neighbors who purchase goods and services from local businesses — like yours. On a peaceful hill just south of Eugene, Tricia and Forrest at Cortesia create flower essences and herbal tinctures using plants from their organic garden or wildcrafted from this 22-acre National Heritage Garden sanctuary. Wendy at Good Clean Love is on a mission: “to increase the awareness and experience of love in the world.” Her Eugene-based business offers all-natural, organic feminine hygiene and petrochemical-free personal intimacy products for enhanced enjoyment of the passionate side of life. NuNaturals has been a presence in our community for nearly 30 years. It is still owned and operated by the Sablosky family (father and son team Warren and Jake) whose mission is “Helping to Keep You Well” with natural plant-based sweeteners, pasture-raised collagen and other dietary supplements. Azure at Blue Heron Herbs prepares small batches of wholesome, organic herbal tinctures, oils and salves using high quality ingredients including freshly harvested herbs, local beeswax, organic olive oil and organic alcohol. David and his crew at Quantum Health make Super Lysine Plus and other nutriceutical- and herb-based products for migraines, immunity and eye health, as well as a mosquito repellent that is DEET-free. Although Keys owners Bob and Wendy do not live here, when they were looking for a site for their manufacturing facility they chose west Eugene. Keys personal care products are made in a certified organic, chemical-free facility using natural, functional ingredients in therapeutic proportions to make truly effective products. Environmental Working Group says their sunscreen, Solar Rx, is “a top choice for sun protection.”

Nearby Neighbors

Evergreen also features products from family-run businesses from nearby Pleasant Hill: Energize Organics and Balanced Greens. Sam and Kathryn at Energize Organics make an organic smoothie boost powder, Herbal Synergy, that is rich in adaptogens and antioxidants and comes two ways — unsweetened or sweetened with stevia. They also make Beet 02, a ready-to-go, squeezable VO2 maximizer. (For the non-athletes out there, VO2 refers to the maximum amount of oxygen utilized during intense exercise.) Leah and Richard from Balanced Greens, make a variety of high-quality, nutrition-rich energy foods made with raw, organic ingredients. In addition, they have liquid fulvic acid minerals, Cell Superfood, that is rich in trace minerals. They call it the “missing nutritional link.” (For more information on the importance of trace minerals, see our newsletter.)

A Little Farther Afield

  If you like to support organic farming, we can suggest three companies that practice sustainable agriculture in Oregon. Williams-based HerbPharm has two certified organic farms in the Siskiyou mountains where they preserve (and sometimes restore) the ecosystem that supports native flora and fauna. They also partner with United Plant Savers, an organization whose mission is “to protect native medicinal plants of the United States and Canada and their native habitat….” Eclectic Institute farms 90 acres of rich volcanic soil near Bull Run Wildlife Preserve in Sandy while Oregon’s Wild Harvest has farms in both Redmond and Culver. Each of these three businesses contributes not only to our local economy, but to our quality of life by helping to maintain local ecosystems and practicing conscientious wildcrafting in our natural areas. Oregon’s Wild Harvest gives back to the community by donating bulk herbs to local clinics and health centers. HerbPharm and Eclectic have internships for those who want to learn about organic farming or herbalism. Eclectic also has a Kids Herb Camp to foster the next generation of herbalists. Evergreen Nutrition has been in Eugene for over 38 years. Our founder, Dorothy, is enjoying retirement, but her son and daughter-in-law, Craig and Terri, maintain her ideal of promoting good health through optimum nutrition. We hope you have enjoyed this brief introduction to just a few of the people who help keep Eugene’s economy and environment healthy.

Evergreen Allergy Remedies

Spring is here and summer will soon follow bringing long days of sunshine, warm weather and amazing natural beauty as an abundance of flowers and trees awaken from winter slumber. But if you suffer from hay fever it can diminish your enjoyment of the season. Here are a few tips from Evergreen Nutrition that can help you enjoy the natural beauty around us.

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Homeopathy is based on the Law of Similars which means if something can make you sick, it can also cure you. For example, homeopathic onion will treat a profuse clear discharge from the eyes and nose. These remedies help bring our bodies into balance (homeostasis) without unpleasant side effects. They are very safe and effective and generally do not interfere with other medications. For an extensive list of Boiron’s recommendations for treating allergy-caused symptoms see our website or visit Boiron Evergreen’s NORTHWEST MIX is a popular homeopathic blend prepared from common allergy-causing plants growing in this area with the added benefit of adrenal and liver support plus histamine (see Law of Similars, above). Since this is Evergreen’s house brand, members always get an additional 15% off. Also, until the end of April, all BIOALLERS homeopathic remedies are on sale for 20% off our always discounted (10%) regular price. This line includes a general formula for Outdoor Allergies as well as specific products for Grass Pollen, Tree Pollen, Mold Yeast & Dust and Animal Hair & Dander.

OTHER SEASONAL FAVORITES

NETTLE LEAF (Urtica dioica) is rich in minerals and chlorophyll and has long been used to treat bronchitis and asthma. This time of year, take freeze-dried nettle leaves for their antihistamine action. We have excellent local products from Eclectic Institute and Oregons Wild Harvest; both have farms in Sandy, Oregon. The bioflavonoid QUERCETIN, like nettles, has an antihistamine effect and is also useful for treating asthma. It works synergistically with BROMELAIN, an antiinflammatory enzyme that breaks down foreign proteins like allergy-causing antigens, and VITAMIN C which inhibits the release of histamine. An easy way to take them together is Solaray’s QBC formula. There are also some less-well-known, but very effective, allergy allies. VITAMIN E helps by lowering IgE levels, PYCNOGENOL strengthens cell membranes thereby reducing histamine release from mast cells and THYMUS EXTRACT normalizes immune reaction. You do not have to suffer through spring and summer. We have a wide variety of products to alleviate your allergy symptoms so you can step outdoors and enjoy this beautiful world. ADDITIONAL ALLERGY ALLIES

• Fish Oil / EPA
• MSM
• Olive Leaf
• Rosemary Oil
• Tea Tree Oil
• Vitamin B5

From Evergreen’s Archives: April 2014

Leaky Gut? Restore Your Defenses!

Intestinal permeability, or leaky gut syndrome, is a very common yet complicated, poorly understood digestive ailment. It is characterized by the inability of the intestines to prevent the leakage of large particles through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream. These antigens may also be able to pass into the lymph glands, lungs, liver and other organs, thereby producing a variety of ailments.

What is the Mucosal Lining?

The mucosal lining is the semi-permeable membrane which lines the digestive tract. It separates everything in the gut from entering the bloodstream. It also needs to be permeable enough to allow nutrients from food to get into the blood. This lining is composed of epithelial cells and is only one cell thick and can be easily damaged. Under normal functioning, the lining is nearly impermeable and allows only fully digested food particles/nutrients to pass into the bloodstream and lymph vessels. Kept out are large, undigested particles, intestinal toxins and (unwanted) microorganisms such as Candida and parasites. An array of proteins known as “tight junctions” holds these epithelial cells together. The tight junction integrity can be compromised by a huge array of factors: herbicides and pesticides in food, gluten, food allergies, prescription drugs such as corticosteroids (Prednisone) and NSAIDS (ibuprofen), parasites, mold and fungal mycotoxins in food, enzyme deficiencies, alcohol and caffeine abuse, and even a high refined-carbohydrate diet. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, by virtue of wiping out gut-protective bacteria, are a particular threat to these cells. These factors lead to inflammation in the gut which further exacerbates the condition.

Consequences of Leaky Gut

If gaps form in the tight junctions and lining of the gut, as we have discussed, foreign particles and invaders are released into the bloodstream causing damage and resulting in a wide range of problems. A weakened immune system, fatigue, irritability, lethargy, hyperactivity (in children), mood swings, muscle or joint pain, sleep disturbances, poor concentration and memory loss are just a few of the potential symptoms here. Leaky gut syndrome has been associated with conditions such as autism, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Nutritional (mineral) deficiencies develop, causing more damage.

Repairing the Lining

Reducing the causes, such as determining a possible food allergy, is of paramount importance. The diet must be as hypo-allergenic as possible: eliminating or reducing sugar, dairy, wheat and other gluten-containing foods such as oats, barley, and rye is the first step. An imbalance of friendly gut bacteria is a main cause of many digestive problems and establishing/maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is key in assuaging leaky gut syndrome. Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus may be of particular benefit. A broad-spectrum digestive enzyme formula may be helpful as well. Enzymedica’s Digest Gold + Probiotics is an excellent choice with its full-spectrum of enzymes plus L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus and other probiotics. The amino acid L-glutamine is a key source of energy for intestinal cells (the mucosal lining), and is essential for repair and maintenance of intestinal structure and function. The metabolite of glutamine, N-acetyl-glucosamine may be helpful for people who suffer from digestive disorders as it is already converted from glutamine. Renew Life offers their IntestiNew product specifically for healing the intestinal lining. It features the above-mentioned nutrients with soothing and demulcent herbs such as marshmallow root. In addition, the “healing mineral” zinc helps heal damaged digestive tissues (zinc carnosine, in particular, with vitamin C and glutamine as in Solaray’s GutShield) and is also needed for proper immune function.

Restore

Restore is a new product clinically shown to support the integrity of intestinal walls. This product “restores” and repairs the tight junctions regulating the flow of nutrients, water, and chemicals across the membrane. It also naturally creates a healthy environment for good gut bacteria. Two of the most insidious disruptors/degraders of the intestinal lining in recent years have been shown to be gluten, and the chemical glyphosate, a commercial herbicide (Roundup). Restore was developed with these culprits in mind. The ingredient in this product is a refined soil lignite supplying highly bioavailable trace minerals and amino acids. These molecules do not act as a probiotic, yet as bacterial metabolites they restore a healthy gut microbiome as well as reduce/repair the gaps in the intestinal membrane. Restore liquid comes in several sizes and is easy to take. It is also available as a nasal spray to help restore the mucosal lining of the sinuses.        

Changes to Supplement Facts Labels

Heads up! There will be some changes to Supplement Facts labels (on dietary supplements) and to Nutrition Facts labels (on food) to make labels more accurate and easier to understand. The deadline for manufacturers to make these changes is July 2018. In addition, because of the prevalence of diet-related diseases in our country, it is hoped that the label updates will enable consumers to make more informed food choices. We would like to tell you about a few of the upcoming changes to Supplement Facts labels.

Percent Daily Values

There will be a slight difference in the way Percent Daily Values (%DV) are calculated. For vitamins and minerals, this will be expressed as Reference Daily Intakes (RDIs) and for fat (including saturated fat and cholesterol), protein, carbohydrates (including fiber), sodium and added sugars it will be expressed as Daily Reference Values (DRVs). Daily Values may also be broken down by groups, for example, for pregnant/lactating women or for young children.  

Fat Soluble Vitamins

Previously, fat soluble vitamins A, D and E were measured in International Units, or IUs, which measured the level of activity (biological effect). Furthermore, converting IUs to milligrams varies depending on the nutrient being measured. On the new labels, these fat soluble vitamins will simply be measured by weight: milligrams (mg) for Vitamin E and micrograms (mcg) for Vitamins A and D. The new Daily Value (DV) of Vitamin A has gone from 5,000 IU to 900 mcg RAE (retinol activity equivalent). RAE will tell us the total amount when several sources of Vitamin A are used, for example: retinol plus beta-carotene. The DV of Vitamin D has increased from 400 IU to 800 IU, or 20 mcg as it will now be expressed. Also, you will no longer see “Vitamin D3” or “Vitamin D2” specified in the Supplement Facts panel. Instead look for the source: cholecalciferol (D3) is made by animals (as when skin is exposed to sunshine) while ergocalciferol (D2) is made by plants. In addition, the DV for Vitamin E is now 15 mg alpha-tocopherol, the natural form that is more biologically active and is retained in the blood more efficiently than synthetic Vitamin E. (Evergreen Nutrition does not recommend the use of synthetic Vitamin E which is made from petrochemicals and is less effective.) Another fat-soluble vitamin, Vitamin K, will continue to be measured in micrograms (mcg), but the DV will increase from 80 mcg to 120 mcg. Like Vitamin D, the source of Vitamin K will no longer be specified in the Sup Facts. Again, look for the source: menaquinone (K2) is the preferred form for bone health (i.e., MK-7) and phylloquinone (K1) is essential for blood clotting.

WATER SOLUBLE VITAMINS

Folate is a B vitamin that is very important for women of child-bearing age since it lowers the risk of neural tube birth defects by 70%. Due to the different bioavailability of natural folate and synthetic folic acid, folate will now be expressed as micrograms of Dietary Folate Equivalents (DFE) indicating the total bioavailability of natural folate or folate plus synthetic folic acid if both forms are used. For women of child-bearing age, the RDI for folate is still 400 mcg but it will be labeled as 400 mcg DFE. Our daily requirement of niacin (Vitamin B3) depends on the amount of the amino acid tryptophan in the diet since 90% tryptophan is converted to niacin within our bodies. (People looking for a natural sleep aid may do better with the tryptophan metabolite, 5-HTP, because it bypasses this conversion.) Under the new labeling requirements, niacin will be expressed as Niacin Equivalents (NE) to reflect the conversion.

ODDS & ENDS

 

• Sugars added during processing, including honey and sugar alcohols like xylitol, are shown on the label as part of Total Sugars which equals naturally occurring plus added sugars.
• The DV for sodium will decrease from 2,400 mg to 2,300 mg.
• In order to discourage limiting intake of healthy fats, the FDA will increase the DV of fat from 65 grams to 78 grams, or 30-35% of the DRV. Healthy fats enable absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, help maintain healthy cell membranes, are important for brain and nerve function and much more.
• Some Daily Values will increase: Vitamin C from 60 mg to 90 mg; phosphorus from 1,000 mg to 1,250 mg; magnesium from 400 mg to 420 mg; and manganese from 2 mg to 2.3 mg. The DV for fiber will go from 25 grams to 28 grams since research indicates that high fiber intake may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

  However they are measured and labeled, Evergreen Nutrition will continue to bring you the highest quality supplements at the best prices we can find.

Good For You & The Earth

Garden of Life recently introduced several new additions to its excellent line. PERFECT FOOD has two new Perfect Food blends: ALKALIZER & DETOXIFIER and ENERGIZER. All Perfect Food versions are chock full of nutrient-dense foods including non-GMO, organically grown grass and vegetable juices plus a variety of sprouts. Perfect Food is for you if you want naturally occurring, whole food nutrition that includes amino acids, essential fatty acids, trace minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, probiotics and more.

NOURISH YOUR BODY

Garden of Life uses sprouted grains, seeds and legumes for a complete amino acid protein profile. Sprouting maintains raw-nutrient density, increases the bio-availability of nutrients and improves digestibility. They also use highly nutritious cereal grass juices from immature barley, alfalfa, oats, wheat and kamut. These grasses are harvested at their nutritional peak and immediately juiced and freeze-dried to maintain freshness, nutrient potency and enzyme activity. Juice grass powders are highly digestible and richer in nutrients than fresh grass. Thirty-three pounds of fresh grass makes one pound of grass juice powder which is rich in chlorophyll, an antioxidant that rejuvenates red blood cells, helps clear toxins from the liver and improves kidney function as well as iron absorption. Enzymes are present in all raw foods. They enhance our ability to digest and assimilate nutrients. Probiotics (beneficial microbes) are essential for optimal digestion, immune function and much more. Each serving of Perfect Food contains over a dozen organic raw sprouts, over seventeen nutrient-dense veggie juices plus live probiotics and enzymes. It is also vegan and dairy- and soy-free with no added sugar or fillers. And, of course, no preservatives or synthetic chemicals. You get such super concentrated nutrition that it’s easy to see why they named it PERFECT FOOD.

NOURISH THE EARTH

To create their superior products while supporting small, family-owned organic farms, Garden of Life sources ingredients from American organic farms whenever possible: flax from North Dakota and wheat grass from Utah, for example. The company actually owns an organic chia seed farm in Florida, the only source of organic chia grown in the U.S. In addition, they buy from organic/natural farms world wide: organic baobab from Africa, sustainably grown cacao from the Amazon rainforest and fair-trade Guayaki Yerba Mate, to name a few. They also pay a fair price for their raw materials so farmers can support their families and improve their lives. By purchasing Garden of Life’s Perfect Food products you are helping to reduce toxic chemical use and safeguard the soil’s nutrients and microbes that sustain the ecosystem which sustains us, creating a better life today and for generations to come.

From Evergreen’s Archive: November 2013

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a painless, progressive eye disease which causes the breakdown of the macula, the small, central part of the retina. The macula is the light-sensing portion that allows us to see fine details (sharp vision). The macula also contains pigmented cells which enable you to see colors. The deterioration is caused by the death of the photoreceptor cells (rods and cones). Photoreceptors “see” light and are essential for vision. People with AMD have gradual loss of central vision. With time AMD can cause frontal blindness and significant vision loss in both eyes. It is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people over 65 in the United States.

Risk Factors

Age is the greatest risk factor. Some signs of AMD are found in 25 percent of people over 60 and 32 percent of people over 75. AMD may be in part inherited. Individuals with one or more immediate family members such as a parent or sibling with AMD are at increased risk. Smoking, which reduces the eye’s protective antioxidant levels, increases the risk for AMD. Women over age 75 may be at increased risk, possibly from low postmenopausal estrogen levels. High blood pressure creates a risk due to impaired blood circulation to the retina. Being overweight or obese may be a risk factor.

How To Protect Yourself From AMD

While one cannot change one’s age or family tree, there are lifestyle choices/changes which may be made to help protect your eyes. Wear sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to shade your eyes from direct or reflected light. Stop smoking, or do not start in the first place. Limit saturated and trans fats in your diet and keep your blood pressure down. Limit your alcohol intake: six drinks per week for men and three for women. And, very importantly, eat a diet rich in fruits and leafy green vegetables. There is a tremendous amount of evidence that an antioxidant-rich diet may improve eye health, help prevent the onset of macular degeneration, and even slow the rate of vision loss.

Radical Risk

Free radicals occur naturally and damage the fragile cells of the macula. These harmful molecules are produced by environmental insults such as cigarette smoke and UV light. In macular degeneration, the biggest and most obvious assault to the eyes is light. The body has made use of certain antioxidant substances here with which to protect itself. The two carotenoid pigments lutein and zeaxanthin are found concentrated in the macula and their presence shows a clear association with protection of the macula and thus macular degeneration. In the plants in which they occur, such as calendula (marigold) and spinach, their function is to protect the plant from excessive light. This power duo may shield up to 40 percent of damaging UV rays to help protect the retina. Other carotenoids are certainly beneficial to eyesight, but these two pigments are preferentially deposited in the macula to protect it. Lutein and zeaxanthin are xanthophyll carotenoids, meaning they do not have pro-vitamin A activity. Unlike beta-carotene, for instance, they do not convert to vitamin A in the body, but exert their benefits independently. There have been reams of studies showing how antioxidants benefit the eye, and diet/nutrition/antioxidant intake is inextricably linked to protection of the eye whether it is AMD or a variety of vision-related conditions. One famous study showed that people who ate the most foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin had a 43 percent lower risk of developing macular degeneration than those who ate the smallest amount of such foods. Good food sources of these nutrients include kale, spinach, collard greens, mustard greens, parsley, broccoli, green peas, and goji berries.

Antioxidant Assists

In 2001, the National Eye Institute published its findings from their 6-year study of over 3,000 participants. A statistically significant reduction in the risk of development of macular degeneration was found with the use of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and zinc. Supplements of these potentially protective nutrients, as well as lutein and zeaxanthin, may be beneficial for people who cannot eat enough of the foods in which they occur. Evergreen Nutrition has an extensive Eye Health section, with many different options for lutein and zeaxanthin as well as more comprehensive formulas developed for eye health and vision support. Stop in and “see” what we have to offer you to protect and support your precious vision. For updated information on protecting your eyes see our newsletter on Blue Light Safety.

Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

At this time of year many of us are determined to make positive changes in our lives. Whether you are trying to lose weight, quit smoking or exercise regularly, Evergreen Nutrition has products that can help you.

CLEANSING

Many health experts recommend cleansing at least twice a year for optimal health. Renew Life whole-body CLEANSE KITS detoxify all seven systems of elimination: bowel, liver, kidneys, lymph, blood, lungs and skin. If weight loss is your goal, a cleanse helps eliminate fat-soluble toxins which are stored in fat cells, making it difficult to convert fat to energy. If you’re trying to quit smoking, a cleanse helps to detoxify the lungs. And if you feel too sluggish to exercise, help get things moving with a cleanse.

LOSE POUNDS

The best way to lose extra pounds and keep them off is with a healthy diet and regular exercise. However, many people need a little help budging the bulge. Some of our weight loss products work through influencing how we metabolize sugars and fats thereby decreasing the risk of insulin resistance and promoting cardiovascular and liver health. GREEN COFFEE BEAN, WHITE KIDNEY BEAN and GARCINIA CAMBOGIA are a few examples. SAFSLIM and FUCOTHIN work by promoting thermogenesis (heat creation/burning off) specifically in dangerous white fat cells which accumulate in the liver and around the belly. Garden of Life’s new FUCOTHIN GREEN contains fucoxanthin and green coffee bean extract, a powerful fat-burning combination.

QUIT SMOKING

After completion of a full-body cleanse, try Renew Life’s SMOKER’S CLEANSE or Herb Pharm’s AVENA-LICORICE COMPOUND which can ease withdrawal from tobacco and opium addiction. Homeopathic STOP-IT SMOKING lozenges help with tobacco cravings and nervous tension while the tablets help with detoxification and irritability. Flower essences are also useful in kicking the habit.

GET MOVING

Do something fun with people you like: dance, walk, bicycle, swim, take a class with a friend. Get energized with a good MULTIVITAMIN, additional B VITAMINS, SUPERFOOD powders and/or COCONUT OIL which is burned for energy instead of stored as fat.

ACHIEVE SUCCESS

Flower essences can be useful for keeping New Year Resolutions. Try CAYENNE, MORNING GLORY or WALNUT to break old/destructive habits. Use TANSY and WILD ROSE for decisiveness and motivation. CRAB APPLE is the choice for cleansing. Address emotional aspects of overeating with AGRIMONY, MARIPOSA LILY and PINK YARROW0. Also useful: NICOTIANA for food cravings when quitting tobacco, IRIS when craving sweets, CHESTNUT BUD when eating out of habit. Happy, healthy New Year to all of you

WEIGHT LOSS PRODUCTS:

• FucoThin
• FucoThin Green
• Garcinia Cambogia
• Green Coffee Bean
• Hunger Caps
• PGX
• Raspberry Ketones
• SafSlim
• White Kidney Bean
• And More!

FLOWER ESSENCES TO HELP YOU KEEP RESOLUTIONS

• AGRIMONY – food as escape
• BLACK EYED SUSAN – eating disorders; binge eating
• CAYENNE – change; transformation
• CHERRY PLUM – break the bing and purge habit
• CHESTNUT BUD – eating out of habit
• CRAB APPLE – while cleansing
• EVENING PRIMROSE – overeating
• IRIS – craving sweets; hypoglycemia
• MARIPOSA LILY – food as an emotional crutch
• MORNING GLORY – addiction to junk food
• NICOTIANA – craving food when quitting smoking
• PINK YARROW – using food to dull emotions
• SNAPDRAGON – excessive oral activity/chewing
• TANSY – goal oriented; decisiveness
• WALNUT – to break old habits
• WILD ROSE – overcome apathy; motivation
• AND MORE – stop by the store for more information.

From Evergreen’s Archive: January 2013