B12: The KING of Vitamins

Vitamin B12 is the most complex vitamin known. Compounds with B12 activity are collectively called Cobalamins.

There are two types of Cobalamins:

1. Cyanocobalamin

2. Methylcobalamin

Cyanocobalamin is commonly used in supplements and in fortified foods. In order for the body to absorb B12 it must be in Methylcobalamin form.

The body will convert the Cyanocobalamin into Methylcobalamin, then absorb the Vitamin. 

To avoid this process it is best to take supplements already in Methycobalamin form. (Check labels)

Vitamin B12 is a water‐soluble vitamin, with a key role in the following functions in the body:

• Fatty acid synthesis and energy production

• Maintenance of normal brain and neurological function

• Formation of red blood cells

• The metabolism of every cell in the human body

• DNA production and synthesis

• Maintenance of the central nervous system

Tempeh

B12 can only be naturally created by bacteria and is found almost exclusively in animal by products or in Tempeh which is a fermented soy bean product. 

Be sure to purchase Non-GMO. 

It is the only vitamin that is typically not present in plant‐based sources. Synthetic forms are widely available and are added to many foods such as cereals and non‐dairy milks.

When bound to or chelated with protein in food, B12 is released by the activity of HCL and gastric protease (digestive enzymes) in the stomach. 

B12 can be consumed in large doses because the body excretes excess or stores it in the liver for use when needed.

DEFICIANCY

A slight deficiency of Vitamin B12 can lead to numerous health conditions and if not detected early, the damage can be permanent or even fatal.

Symptoms of Deficiency:

• Anemia

• Fatigue

• Mania

• Depression

• Loss of focus

• Loss of balance

• Muscle function is weak

• Hair and nails are brittle

WHO IS AT RISK OF DEFICIENCY?

Even those taking daily B12 supplements may not be adequately absorbing the vitamin. The absorption takes place in the stomach, which requires HCL (Hydrochloric Acid) as well as digestive enzyme IF (Intrinsic Factor). 

If one step in the process is missed or compromised, the absorption of B12 can be greatly reduced.

Those at Risk:

• Smokers (Nicotine)

• Heavy drinkers

• Adults over 50

• Vegans

• Pregnant & Breast Feeding

• Sufferers of Digestive issues

• Poor diets and Malnutrition

• Persons taking antibiotics

For those who aren’t getting enough there are many options available, B12 injections administered by a physician is a common and effective option. Recently the vitamin B12 patch has been introduced as well as B12 oral strips and high dose supplements are also available to maximize absorption.

Although B12 has not been directly linked to weight loss, because it is known to increase energy and the rate of metabolism, many claim that B12 may assist with the process. Both weight loss clinics and sports medicine facilities administer B12 injections frequently.

Vitamin B12 is essential in the maintenance of bodily function, without it the body will begin to shut down!

Pay close attention to your intake and maintain a diet rich in foods containing the vitamin. 

If living on a plant-based diet, it is important to take a supplement to ensure adequate levels are being maintained.

The Daily Recommended Intake

ADULTS over 19                                         2.4 mcg

PREGNANT                                                2.6 mcg

BREAST FEEDING                                       2.8 mcg

(mcg = micrograms)

Vitamin B12 Supplements I use:

RAW One Women's

SISU Vitamins

Foods Rich in Vitamin B12 and Value of Recommended Daily Intake:

Clams                                                  3 ounces = 1400% 

Mussels                                                3 ounces =  400%

Enriched Dairy-Free Milks                        8 ounces =  50%

Tempeh                                                3 ounces =  15%

(Animal sources contain high levels of B12: More Info)

**To TEST your level of B12, simply ask your family physician to request your levels be checked with the other standard  blood testing conducted along with your annual physical.

MORE INFO: The Non-GMO Project 

Paraben-Free Deodorants that WORK!

Over the years, I have tried so many different types of natural deodorants, from pure essential oils to the crystal rock deodorant, powders, sticks, roll-ons, you name it!
The most effective seems to be a blend of essential oils, my personal favorite: Rose Poetic Pits by AMAZING brand Living Libations.

Some people aren't into wearing essential oils as a deodorant, especially males and prefer a stick form.  Herban Cowboy for men is Paraben-Free, Aluminum-Free, Vegan and Propylene Glycol-Free.

As a traditional stick, Paraben-Free, Aluminum-Free, Vegan... Kiss My Face Active Life - Sport  is a good option. The smell is a subtle blend of citrus & thyme, very clean and mild, a scent suitable for both men & women to use.
Although Kiss My Face Active Life- Sport contains far less toxins than conventional deodorants it does contain Propylene Glycol. There is reasonable discussion, that exposure to large amounts of propylene glycol can be toxic.

Parabens are in EVERY conventional hygiene product on the market it seems! Shampoo, conditioner, styling products, deodorants, toothpaste and more.
Statistics indicate that Parabens are showing up in 99% of Breast Cancer Cases. (Read Article)

Check the ingredient list on the products being used everyday to stay "CLEAN".
Parabens are just one of the toxins and additives we use on a daily basis.
Seek out the alternatives, there are some great products on the market that work just as good, if not better than the household brands, that aren't overloaded with unnecessary synthetics.

Chemicals that require a lot of research to identify exactly what they are made of, are being applied to and absorbed by the skin, hair and mouth, on a daily basis. This is BAD NEWS!


Smelling good, being clean and hygienic doesn't have to cost us our total health!

Always RESEARCH a product before using, read the ingredient list and make your own decision. New information is constantly surfacing regarding health & wellness, it can be a full time job trying to keep up!

Little changes in the right direction are significant... Never stop Learning!!

Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation: Make a Donation
Follow Jenny Natural Twitter

Cacao: RAW Chocolate

The Cacao (Ca-Kow) Bean originates from many regions in South America. For centuries, Cacao more popularly known as Cocoa, has been considered "Food of the Gods" by tribes and cultures throughout history.

Today, Cacao is regaining popularity in North America and around the world, as it has been recently tagged with the "buzz-word" SUPERFOOD.

What is a SUPERFOOD?
This term refers to nutrient dense foods that are grown organically, without being genetically modified or compromised by heat and/or added preservatives. When foods are heated/cooked past an internal temperature of 118 degrees celsius the nutrients begin to decrease or can be lost completely.
Cacao is the KING of SUPERFOODS!
Rich in antioxidants, fiber, minerals and of course flavor, Cacao is one of the BEST foods we can consume.

Do not get Cacao confused with the commercial chocolate found in convenience stores and grocery marts, the two are nothing alike.
In fact, most of the conventional chocolate bars found on shelves contain less than 2% of Cacao and of that 2% it is almost guaranteed to be of the lowest grade and quality available.
Chocolate empires such as Nestle, Hershey and Cadbury have recently come under fire due to their less than honorable growing, labor and processing practices.
Unfortunately, the Cacao growing and processing industry has become synonymous with exploitation of child labor, horrible working conditions and horrendous wages.


So how do you know what chocolate is good for the body, and comes from a reliable source?
First of all, only buy 100% Certified Organic, if there is no mention of Organic on the label, DO NOT BUY IT!
Food items must pass all standards set by a select group of reputable organizations such as the International Certification Standards Inc. whom investigate the growing conditions before any certifications are given.


Another certification to look for is Fair Trade.
This means that the workers have been payed a fair wage for their labor and work conditions have been approved by an organization called Fair Trade International.

The good news: Many brands are stepping up and producing delicious Cacao based foods that are 100% Organic, Fair Trade, and free from nasty additives.


Canadian brand Giddy Yoyo is one of the leaders in the movement of responsible and conscious farming of Cacao and other Superfoods.
Giddy Yoyo creates amazing chocolate bars that are not only 100% Certified Organic and Fair Trade, but also 100% Raw, Vegan, Gluten-free, Soy-free and Nut-free!! WOW!

The bars contain very little sugar, the sugar is unrefined, organic and raw.
Giddy Yoyo takes the time and care to ensure that every step in the process of getting the Cacao bean from the highest elevation in Ecuador to the small facility in Orangeville, Ontario, is accounted for.
The Cacao makes it's way from Ecuador to Canada by boat, where it is then turned into scrumptious chocolate bars by hand.
Even the wrapping is done by hand!

Every individual person is shown appreciation and gratitude for their contribution to the brand.
You can feel this love the moment you taste the chocolate or any of the foods produced by the Giddy Yoyo brand.

I am a proud member of The Team at Giddy Yoyo, and I can assure you that Founders Mark & Bridgitte, are two of the kindest, giving and thoughtful human beings you will ever meet.
Ask anyone who has met them, everyone beams when talking about this lovely couple.
Giddy Yoyo creates nutritious foods without compromising quality or integrity in the process.
Feel good about what you eat and support local brands that are changing the world we live in!

Keep it WHOLE, FRESH & SIMPLE!!

The Giddy Yoyo Cacao Bean
Cacao as Medicine
Raw Chocolate Benefits

Twitter: Giddy Yoyo
Facebook: Giddy Yoyo

XYLITOL (Zy-Li-Tall): The Healthy Sweetener

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is an all natural, non-GMO (genetically modified) sweetener that is derived from hardwood trees and the fibrous parts of plants.
It also occurs in small amounts in natural form in some fruits and vegetables including raspberries, strawberries and endive lettuce.
Xylitol looks and tastes like sugar, but does not wreak havoc on the body.

We all know the dangers and the horrific side effects associated with refined sugars. Aside from the obvious, weight gain, tooth decay, diabetes and high blood pressure, sugar has also been linked to attention deficit disorder, sleep disorders and many other preventable health issues.

So why do we crave the Sugar so much?? 
Sugar has been proven to trigger the release of dopamine into the body.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter or messenger that helps control the brain's "reward and pleasure" centers. In other words, when dopamine levels are high, our brains and bodies get the sensation of feeling high.
That's basically why we LOVE and CRAVE sugar and where the term "Sugar High" comes from.

Xylitol is an excellent alternative for the obtaining sweetness of sugar, however unlike sugar it has 40% fewer calories and 75% less carbohydrates.
Although classified as a carbohydrate and sugar alcohol, Xylitol is slowly absorbed from the digestive tract and does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels.

Enjoy chewing gum or sucking on breath mints?
Swap the NASTY sugar or aspartame filled choices for products using Xylitol as the sweetener.
Xylitol prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth and can help maintain neutral PH levels inside the mouth which inhibits bacteria from growing and causes tooth decay.

In fact, the World Health Organization has given Xylitol it's safest rating for food additives and is highly recommended by dental care professionals.

My best nutrition advice regarding refined sugars and sweeteners is to completely omit them from the diet all together!
However as a treat or addition to baking, I recommend using Xylitol over any other sweetener.
Stevia is also an excellent alternative.

Look for Xylitol in any health food store, make sure it is Non-GMO! It costs more than table sugar, but as the saying goes:
"You get what you pay for!"

For more information regarding the dental and medical benefits of Xylitol: Xylitol.Org
For more information regarding Stevia: Stevia.com

My Favorite Chewing Gums & Mints:
Spry Brand
Xyla Brand
Xylitol Fresh

A TRUE HERO: Dr. Wangari Maathai

I WILL BE A HUMMINGBIRD!

"Do What You Can!"

Dr.Wangari Maathai 1940-2011

Dr.Wangari Maathai was a Nobel Peace Prize winner, environmentalist, activist, professor and the principal founder of The Green Belt Movement
I continue to admire this GREAT woman and find her wisdom and generosity to be remarkable!
Dr.Maathai was the first African woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her profound work within communities of mostly women in Kenya. Her focus was on teaching Kenyan women how to plant trees and live from their own gardens. 
Thanks the her work over 45 million trees have been planted around Kenya! 
Today those trees continue to flourish and provide clean air for not only Kenyans but us ALL!


Among the above noted achievements, Dr.Maathai was a member of the board for several organizations including:
The Jane Goodall Institute
Women & Environment Development Organization (WEDO)
World Learning for International Development
The Green Cross


Please take 2 minutes and watch this very short analogy told by Dr.Maathai. 
This adorable animated story can be applied to all aspects of your life.  
Share with friends and children, it is appropriate for all ages and lifestyles.

By the way, in the video she was 63 years old!!
Talk about exuding youth!! Her skin is so beautiful.


An incredible example of what one person is capable of achieving through determination and the incredible desire to have an impact on our earth. 
Suffice it to say, the efforts of Dr.Mathaai will continue to grow and far out live ALL of our lifetimes.


For more information:
Click the Link: Dr.Wangari Mathaai Biography
Click the Link: The Green Belt Movement

Why BIODIVERSITY is Crucial to our future!

NOTE* This YouTube Video must be viewed from a desktop computer. 

The format is not viewable from a Mobile device.

Question: How has our food changed over the years?? 

This short video made by USC Canada "The Story of Food" is a quick insight as to what is happening to our food as well as local & international farming. 

Share with teens and adults, the video is fun and easy to understand.

USC Canada is an organization that is teaching the basic skills of organic farming and the rebuilding of rural communities around the world.

USC Canada has been around for over 65 years and must continue to grow and change the world we live in. 

WE MUST SUPPORT GROUPS LIKE THESE!!

WITHOUT THEM WHAT KIND OF A WORLD WOULD WE LIVE IN??

The organization is always in need of donations (clothing, money, volunteers).

To learn more about their efforts go to: USC Canada Website

Powerhouse Vegan: Robert Cheeke

Perhaps the biggest misconception regarding the Vegan diet is that it is impossible to gain and maintain muscle mass. 

This is all apart of the perpetual and worsening state of the "Health Washing" our society is so deeply rooted within. 

We are so quick to cry "Conspiracy" when it comes to ALL Government run programs, policies and initiatives where as when it comes to the MOST important aspects of our daily lives, Health & Nutrition, we hold that same Government on a pedestal. 

Faux/ fake foods that claim to be buzz words like "Healthy, Natural, Pure" and similar, are being approved by our Government officials on a regular basis.

North Americans are sicker now, more dependent on prescription drugs and spend far greater on health care than any other society in the world!

Many Organizations, Physicians, Educators, Researchers and Health-minded individuals are coming together to extinguish the burning myths behind the benefits of the typical S.A.D. (Standard American Diet) .

Countless books, documentaries, editorials and studies have been released in support of the concept of an entirely Plant-based or Vegan diet. 

One author in particular, Robert Cheeke, is the perfect example of the potential change body mass one can achieve while strength training on a Vegan diet. For over 16 years Robert has thrived on a plant-based diet, becoming one of the World's most recognizable Vegan athletes.

After competing professionally in a world full of carnivores and nay sayers, Robert founded the website:  VeganBodybuilding.com
Convinced he was one of very few like himself, Robert has since united thousands of organizations and individuals through the website and social networks.

The VeganBodybuilding.com website is a respected source of accurate and current information as well as a forum for networking within the Vegan community. The site features many recognizable bodybuilding competitors who offer their advice on fitness programs, diet, recovery techniques, resources and motivation to help others achieve success.

I am honored to be involved with a FREE program currently being offered on the site titled 12 Days of Vegan Bodybuilding and Fitness. The program was launched on December 20, 2011 as apart of a warm-up to those seeking to achieve a fitter, healthier body in the new year.

For 12 days participants are able to communicate directly with fitness & nutrition experts/mentors, have unlimited access to specially designed workout guides, diet suggestions and more. 

As motivation, during the 12 Days of Vegan Bodybuilding and Fitness daily prizes are rewarded to both participants and mentors from many popular brands and organizations: Vega, Forks over Knives, Live Food Bar, Peta, Growing Naturals, VegCoach.com, Vegan Muscle and Fitness and of course VeganBodybuilding.com to name a few.

Whether you currently consume a Vegan diet or are simply looking to gain a better understanding of the diet and lifestyle, refer to Robert Cheeke as a resource of boundless information regarding all things Vegan.

There are countless publications, documentaries and interviews featuring Robert, just enter his name in the Google search engine, see what comes up!!

Click: Vegan Body Building & Fitness Book

Follow on Twitter: @RobertCheeke

Follow on Facebook: Robert Cheeke