Healthy Body

To fully understand the differences between raw, pasteurized, and homogenized milk, let’s take a look at each and discover what it all means.

Raw Milk

Approximately 1% of the population ingests raw milk. Its health benefits have been studied and the data concludes that it is well known for helping to cure various ailments including rickets in children, diabetes, skin conditions, allergies, arthritis, TB, and heart disease, among others. There is, however, an ongoing debate as to its efficacy. While health institutes strongly object to its use because it can adversely affect pregnant women and cause a myriad of illnesses, proponents suggest otherwise.

Raw milk contains vitamins, minerals, protein and amino acids, and enzymes which are important to maintain good health. As long as the milk is “clean”, that is, the farmer who distributes it utilizes high standards, the cows are fed fresh green grass, and the milk is cooled and bottled; it is considered safe and effective.

Pasteurized Milk

Opponents of raw milk are definitive in their assertion that pasteurized milk is healthier. During the pasteurization process, all the bacteria that is contained in raw milk is destroyed. But pasteurization destroys vitamins, nutrients, and proteins as well. So the controversy surrounding raw milk versus pasteurized milk is still ongoing.
Studies on pasteurized milk have shown that it may cause illnesses such as listeria, salmonella, and E. coli.

Conversely, while raw milk contains high amounts of calcium needed for strong bones and increased growth, the pasteurization of milk all but kills the calcium and other important ingredients required to maintain good health. In addition, pasteurized milk has been known to cause allergic reactions and illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, ear infections, weight gain, osteoporosis, and other related diseases.

Homogenized Milk

The process of homogenizing of milk involves mixing the cream content into the milk itself. Where does the cream come from? Well, when you milk a cow the cream flows to the top. During the homogenization process, the fat from the cream is broken down so it is absorbed into the milk.

Many experts consider this process detrimental since studies indicate that when the fat is broken down, the enzyme known as xantine oxidase is released. This is a process of oxidation that occurs when the fat is exposed to air and increases the chances the milk will spoil. When this milk is ingested, it can penetrate the intestinal wall and cause damage to the arteries and heart, even resulting in heart disease and atherosclerosis.

While there are a large number of consumers who swear by the health benefits of raw milk, there are just as many who oppose this as a health alternative. One thing is clear; the case against drinking homogenized milk falls somewhere in the middle.

According to the dictionary, proteins are: “fundamental components of all living cells and include many substances, such as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies that are necessary for the proper functioning of an organism. They are essential in the diet of animals for the growth and repair of tissue and can be obtained from foods such as meat, fish, eggs, milk, and legumes.” Raw milk is high in protein and here are the reasons why raw milk may be a healthy alternative.

Raw milk contains all the amino acids we need and since proteins consist of amino acids, it follows that we need amino acids to build protein. These proteins allow for easy absorption of iron, have anti-cancer properties, and anti-viral properties. They also help prevent bacteria from forming on the teeth, which can cause cavities.

In addition, the protein in raw milk can rid the body of “bad” bacteria and provide antibodies that play an important role in resisting viruses and toxins. These proteins have also been known to decrease the symptoms of asthma.

It should be noted here that pasteurizing milk not only destroys the “good” bacteria and other necessary nutrients, but significantly reduces the overall amount of protein in the milk.

To further delineate the importance of protein in milk, take a look at a label on a carton of regular milk and 1% milk. The protein amount is 16% or 8 grams for both. In raw milk, the protein is 80% casein. What is casein? It is the protein consisting of amino acids which are digested at a slower rate. This is important because it releases the amino acids over a seven-hour period. The whey protein in raw milk is 20%, and its amino acids are released within an hour.

Why is slow amino acid release so important? Ask any body-builder and he will tell you that it allows for increased muscle growth which is based upon how well protein breaks down in the body. The slower the body absorbs the protein, the less likely the protein will be suppressed.

Other important components of raw milk are enzymes which are made up of different kinds of proteins. One enzyme found in raw milk, for example, acts as an anti-bacterial agent.

While we know that pasteurized milk is void of some of the necessary nutrients and enzymes that are most beneficial to the body, raw milk contains protein and enzymes as well as vitamins necessary to maintain one’s overall health. Remember, too, that bacteria in raw milk also serves as a protective agent against pathogens.

Got Milk? Raw milk, that is? There is an interesting debate between proponents and opponents of raw milk who have been asked this question: Is raw milk suitable for children? Before you weigh in with your verdict, here are the nuts and bolts of why this subject has become so intense.

The basis upon which these two sides cannot agree has to do with pasteurization. Raw milk has bacteria, but so does pasteurized milk. The difference is that the E. coli bacteria found in raw milk is less prevalent than in milk that has been pasteurized. Research has shown that children who are given raw milk develop a resistance to such diseases as pneumonia, tuberculosis, diphtheria, and other related illnesses. While we know that there is a high level of calcium in milk, scientists found that the growth of children drinking raw milk was far superior to those who did not ingest raw milk.

If you think about countries such as Africa, for example, part of the Masai’s diet is goat’s milk. In other countries and regions where people rely on cows and other animals to provide nutrients, raw milk is at the top of the list.

While it is true that cows should be healthy and the milk should be fresh, scientific data has proven that raw milk has been found to be good for children, and that it contains high concentrations of calcium, iodine, and protein which are essential components in promoting good health.

On the other side of the aisle are the opponents of raw milk who strongly suggest that raw milk is as bad as poison. Their rationale is that children develop tuberculosis which is caused by the germs contained in raw milk. While scientists generally discount this theory, there was a study which disclosed that one child out of seventy developed this disease. The research goes on to admit that fourteen children who drank pasteurized milk, however, developed TB.

There is another part of the equation that these debates inject. According to opponents, farmers would have to purchase machinery to process the raw milk. What if they can’t afford to? Proponents would counter with this argument: what did everyone do before Louis Pasteur came along?

While we know that pasteurization removes some nutrients and good bacteria, there is no scientific data that suggests raw milk is a bad thing. As a matter of fact, the data indicates that children and adults have become ill from drinking pasteurized milk as opposed to raw milk.

So there’s the debate in a nutshell. Considering that so much research has been done to explain the effects of raw milk versus pasteurized milk, it seems possible that this discussion is largely based on a political agenda and not the nutritional benefits derived therein.

As more people are choosing healthier lifestyles, eating the right foods has become a top priority. One area which has spawned renewed interest is grass fed meats. They are a great natural source of saturated fats. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits derived from grass fed meats.

Grass fed meats contains omega-3 fatty acids which are important in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and depression. On the other hand, grain fed meats offer little in health benefits and studies have shown they contain none of the necessary vitamins and minerals found in grass fed meats.

Saturated fat in grass fed meats may lower cholesterol levels due to the stearic acid that is contained therein. What is stearic acid? Well, it is a saturated fat that can also be found in chocolate, believe it or not. It is also utilized in margarine and shortening. When converted, it turns into monounsaturated fat. This conversion is good news since studies have indicated that the fat has little if any effect on cholesterol levels.

While we normally produce cholesterol in our bodies, there are some individuals who inherently produce more than others. The omega-3 fatty acids in grass fed meats help lower these levels, and grass fed meat contains less fat and calories than grain fed meats.

With the high amount of omega-3 which is found in grass fed meats, you have a healthy alternative to grain fed meats. Conversely, in grain fed meats the amount of omega-6 fatty acid is greater. Individuals whose diet does not consist of a proper ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 can be more prone to disease.

In the old days, livestock were traditionally grass fed. Unfortunately, today we find that most livestock are given grain and other food products to fatten them up. Cows, for example, are given corn which is not readily digestible. Thus, antibiotics have to be given to counteract the effects of these foods.

The recent outbreak of E. coli is a testament to the devastating effects of feeding corn to cows. Grass fed meat does not contain the E. coli bacteria.

It seems every time you listen to the news they are either telling you to eat meat or don’t eat meat. The fact of the matter is that the data collected from a myriad of studies and research shows that grass fed meat is a healthy alternative.

Natural beef is becoming all the rage and the reasons why are even more important: natural beef is free of antibiotics, hormones, and steroids. Does natural meat cost more? Yes, but it’s worth it.

There is a farmer in Canada who, 30 years ago, decided to raise beef cattle the natural way. He started a company by attracting other local farmers who felt as he did, and together they are now one of the biggest producers of natural meat. Not only is he contributing to the environment by using this practice, but he has helped the economy as well.

Natural meat is not the same as grass fed meat. It is not organic meat. Natural meat is processed minimally and contains no artificial ingredients. Moreover, while some labels may say “all natural” it doesn’t necessarily mean it is natural. Natural meat comes from cattle that are able to graze on an open range.

However, even though there is a surge in the number of consumers who prefer natural meat, the supply does not consistently meet the demand. This is why the cost of natural meat is high. For example, a pound of ground beef may sell for $2.00, whereas a pound of natural ground beef will sell for $5.00.

There is another consideration regarding natural meat which should be mentioned. A study was conducted among consumers who purchased natural meat from a well-known company. As with most natural meats, the cattle had been fed corn within the last 90 or 100 days before production. The general consensus among the group was that natural beef tasted better than regular beef. What is the point of this scenario?

Consider that natural beef from cattle is in its prime at two years of age. Thus, farmers have to join cooperatives in order to supply enough natural beef to their respective companies. In addition to this, the farmers have to have the cattle certified and the companies have to market the natural meat to assure customers that it is indeed “natural” meat. This is a costly process on both ends of the spectrum. It is estimated that it costs 25% more to produce natural beef and the need to lower costs is a major consideration among cattle owners.

Another factor is that consumers tend to prefer the loin because it is more tender than other cuts of meat. Surveys show these consumers would definitely pay more for this particular cut.

The next time you decide to go out for dinner, why not find a restaurant in your area that serves only natural beef. You will be quite surprised at how fantastic it tastes. In addition, you can always check online where there are a number of farms who only sell natural beef products. It may cost more, but the health benefits and improved taste may well make it worth it.

If you are looking for a healthier alternative to pasteurized milk, here are five reasons to have raw milk instead:

1. Raw milk is rich in proteins, enzymes, and vitamins. Included in raw milk is bacteria that is not only beneficial, but which acts as an anti-viral agent as well. In addition, the high level of calcium in raw milk allows for the strengthening of bones as well as increased growth levels.

A recent study produced these findings: “Raw milk contains two and a half times more IgG enzyme that pasteurized milk.” Why is this important? It can prevent diarrhea in infants.

2. Raw milk’s counterpart, pasteurized milk, is said to contain lower amounts of all of the essential amino acids, nutrients, and vitamins that are necessary in maintaining overall health. Moreover, the “good” bacteria in raw milk is destroyed by the pasteurization and leaves the body more defenseless against other bacteria that can be harmful. This is why pasteurized milk deteriorates while raw milk simply turns sour.

Research also indicates that there is approximately 33% more natural vitamin C in raw milk than in pasteurized milk. Vitamins A, B, and C in combination with enzymes are all destroyed in the pasteurization process and thereby leave the gates open for pathogens.

3. While regular milk only contains 16% casein protein, raw milk contains 80% casein. Casein allows for slow digestion of proteins that contribute to muscle growth.

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin found in raw milk. Unless children consume a great deal of meat and eggs (or raw meat, which is not at all healthy), vitamin B12 can be missing from their diets.

4. Research asserts that raw milk can prevent serious illnesses such as tuberculosis, asthma, flu, diphtheria, and related illnesses. It can also lower cholesterol. Pasteurized milk, on the other hand, has been attributed to the development of these diseases and can also promote dental decay.

In a clinical trial where approximately seventy children were given raw milk and pasteurized milk, one child who drank pasteurized milk developed TB.

5. Raw milk has additional health benefits as well. It can prevent osteoporosis, allergies, slow growth development in children, anemia, skin infections, and other illnesses. Conversely, studies clearly indicate that pasteurize milk has been the source of illnesses such as tuberculosis, E. coli, and salmonella.

While these are just five reasons why raw milk is arguably better for you, consumers are slowly re-defining raw milk and its health benefits. There are opponents who will never entertain the idea that raw milk is as beneficial as proponents claim, and this debate is sure to continue.

However, it should be noted that 1% of the population drinks raw milk and that in itself says something about where this argument may be headed.

Organic health products were few and far between about twenty years ago. Some of the more “earthy” types bought into it, but the mainstream resisted. Now, the industry has made great strides mostly due to the mainstream.

The sale of organic products is a billion dollar industry. The United States leads the way in organic trade with over eighteen billion dollars in sales. The organic food market in the UK has grown to over a billion pounds and is continuing to enjoy an upward trend. Japan has also jumped on the band wagon with over three billion dollars worth of sales. What does all this mean? The consumer is getting savvy about what they put into and onto their bodies.

Cosmetics and skin care has always been a multimillion dollar industry. With the addition of organic beauty and skin care products, the sales are better than ever.

Unfortunately, with the popularity of organic products comes the problem. What is truly organic?

Companies have been getting by with a thoroughly inadequate definition of “organic” for far too long. They consider any compound in their product that contains carbon atoms to qualify as organic. We all know that carbon is a basic building block of all life on earth. But, toxic chemicals can contain carbon as well.

Read the labels. The front of the shampoo or skin lotion bottle may say it contains palm oil, but how much? If we see it listed on the back amongst the ingredients, is that good enough for us. Ingredients on labels must be listed in order of the amounts of each that are contained in the product. You may see palm oil on the label, but if it is at the bottom, then that means that there is actually very little in the preparation. What’s more, the product is not as organic as it appears to be. Most of the ingredients are actually not good for your skin or hair and can be hurting you instead of helping.

Local chain stores such as Target, Walgreen’s, Kohl’s, and Wal-Mart carry certified organic skin care products. Paul Mitchell and Weleda carry body wash and lotion that are all natural. Mod Skin Labs and Ojon offer organic hair and body cleansers that don’t produce a build up on chemicals in the skin and they reduce irritation. All of these companies are also active in the environment, trying to make it a better place to live. These products and more are easy on the pocketbook and wonderful for your body.

Organic encompasses more than food. We start with the inside and work our way out. Then, we work to give back to the earth for all it has supplied to us. Â

I visit the local farmer’s market on weekends to get the freshest fruits and vegetables that I can find. As I browse the stands I wonder how much time and effort goes into producing those delicious foods. As everyday consumers, we can grow some of our own food without all the labor of the average farmer. Here are a few tips to help anyone grow their own food organically.

1. Seeds grow in the soil. Who said that that soil had to be on the ground? Growing fruits and vegetables in containers is a good way to get a sampling of several different plants. Container gardeners can use fertilizer free potting soil as the medium to grow their food.

2. Use natural insect repellants. Mint leaves have been shown to repel ants. Crushing the leaves releases the offensive mint oils. There are pesticides that derive from flowers that can be used to kill some insects. Even sprays made from soaps can kill them. Substances like eucalyptus and camphor possess such vapors that can be used as natural repellants without harmful side effects to the food.

3. Instead of buying that big bag of fertilizer at the store, create your own compost pile. Banana peels can be used as a type of fertilizer due to the potassium they contain. Plants that require an alkaline soil medium can grow with an ammonia and water liquid fertilizer added to the soil.

4. If you are preparing the soil in your yard for organic gardening, determine the type of soil that you have. There are three categories: clay, loam, and sand. Loam is the best, because it holds water, but is easily manageable when you have to till the soil.

5. Choose plants that are perfect for growing in your zone. Depending on where you live, certain foods may have a harder time thriving than others. Seed catalogues list under each offering a list of the zones that are favorable for that particular plant.

6. Collect rain water. You will need to use your hose from time to time, but collecting rain water in barrels will help to lower your water bill. The barrels can be stored in a shed to reduce the rate of evaporation of the water. Visit your local feed and seed store to buy rain collecting devices.

7. Weeds and grass will grow even though you’ve prepared the soil. Weeds and grass compete with your plants and steal the water and nutrients from the soil. The crops must be kept weed and grass free to survive.

Organic gardening can be fun and rewarding: your crops will be fresher and tastier without all of the chemicals, and your body will thank you for it. Â

We have all seen the organic labels in stores and wondered about them. Are those products really better? If a product is truly organic, nothing used to make it contained or came in contact with synthetic chemicals or pesticides. Without the added preservatives, the product is healthier.

The body has problems digesting these non-organic substances. Think about our ancestors. All of their foods, medicines, and beauty treatments originated from the earth. Some would argue that that was because they could do no better. But, I would say that they were on to something.

Sometimes the cure is worst than the disease. If you’ve ever read the insert that comes with a bottle of medication, there is a section entitled “Adverse events”. This is the list of side effects of the substance they are trying to market to you. The list of possible reactions to the drug can be quite long. Taking the medicine will solve one problem, but create others.

Using natural remedies keeps the body detoxified. Most conditions we suffer from today, our parents and grandparents encountered as well. They experienced headaches, constipation, fever, and the like. They didn’t have Tylenol® or Maalox® so they had to use what they did have: herbs and plants. Tribes of peoples living in the jungles of South America and the bush of Africa still use herbal medicines to treat themselves.

Modern medicine has its place. There are new ailments that were not heard of in grandmother’s day. Modern and ancient medicine working together can heal the body in a more natural and less harmful way. More and more people visit holistic healers to seek medical treatment. Herbal remedies keep the body free of toxins and delivers a treatment free of harmful side effects.

Pesticides used to keep vegetables free of insects and pests are toxic to the body. Rain can wash these pesticides off of the leaves of the plants and into the ground and the water table. The particles in factory smoke released toxic fumes in the air. Acid rain resulted from rain water mixing with these chemical particles. Now that scrubbers exist on smokestacks, the toxic release is less, but can still be unhealthy.

Remember the first time you heard about “mad cow disease”. The medical term is bovine spongiform encephalopathy. Cows were being fed ground up remains of diseased cows as a protein supplement. Cow owners were also selling cows potentially infected with BSE to meat plants where dangerous neurological tissue was mixed into the hamburger beef. The resulting hamburger meat made people sick and many died.

The world is not perfect, but organic products do give us a better option for keeping our bodies running in tip-top shape.