Back to School Immune Support

We are still adjusting to our new schedule but the beautiful autumn weather has started to peak through.  Leaves are falling, the air is crisp and humid days are a thing of the past.  With the kids being back to school and the cooler days nearing us it is just a matter of time when the colds come along as well.  Last year was not a good one for us.  Mainly Amanda who had started kindergarden.  In the 5 years of her life she had never had an ear infection.  Somehow she wound up with 2 along with a couple of colds.

As usual I did a bit of research over the summer to see what it is I can do to minimize the risks and hopefully avoid them all together.  As far as nutrition well I try to be as healthy as possible with myself but when it comes to my kids I am even more health conscious.  And thankfully since we have been a junk free family Amanda (now 6) makes her own choices that I am extremely proud of.  For example I know for a fact (from hearing the reports of other moms at school or parties) Amanda will have a couple of bites of birthday cake but then will go off and feast on a bowl of fruit. (Insert huge grin on my face!)  So the next step naturally was to look into supplements.  

Our doctor had prescribed to both kids a vitamin cocktail that contained Fluoride.  It has been over 6 months that I stopped giving it to them.  Yes, I know that Fluoride can be found in some water but I have decided to not actively have my kids ingest it.  Aside from my research at home I went into Whole Foods to go on my quest for the right vitamins.  I know I’m always saying how much I love it in there but I REALLY love the employees even more.  They are so knowledgeable and willing to help out.  I knew I wanted a multivitamin and Cod Liver Oil.  I wanted Nordic Natural’s Children’s DHA (I’ll explain later) but the multi is where I was unsure.  There were just so many!

After a 20 minute lesson on different multivitamins we agreed upon Child Life Essentials Multi Vitamin & Mineral.  Child Life Essentials was developed and formulated by homeopathic pediatric specialist Dr. Murray Clarke.  Child Life is made from the highest quality ingredients.  There are no artificial flavorings, sweeteners or coloring.  Their Multi Vitamin & Mineral formula contains all the essentials for developing children. 

The second I was very excited and nervous to introduce (Fish oil).  I like to consider myself a non-picky eater.  I was raised to try it all and give everything a chance.  I have (in my opinion) successfully instilled the same thought process on my kids but we have a challenge when it comes to fish.  I’m not a fan.  Again, I will eat it but I don’t enjoy it and when you don’t enjoy something you tend to not cook it either.  Plus though we are omnivores our meat, poultry and seafood is very minimal so the source of our iron, protein and omega 3 hardly comes from those sources.  

You might have heard of all the health benefits of incorporating omega 3 in your diet but just as a refresher here are some key points for you to consider.  Omega 3 is the trio of EPA, DHA & ALA found in marine life such as fish and sea vegetables.  Omega 3 supports all organs, immune system, endocrine system, bones and cardiovascular system.  It is also a source for a healthy nervous system and essential for brain development.  Plus it has been proven to reduce the risk of disease.  

There are factors you have to consider when choosing the right Omega 3 for your children and yourself.  You must make sure that the company is GMP (Good Manufactured Practice) certified and Third Party Certified (quality control was checked by a group that is not affiliated with brand.) It is also imperative that you know whether or not and how much mercury is in the Omega 3 you are ingesting.  Nordic Naturals was my obvious choice.  

Nordic Naturals is the winner of many awards based on taste, purity and quality.  There are several versions depending on age.  We went with Children’s DHA.  

I thought I was set with all the supplements I needed to promote a healthy and strong immune system when I was told to consider an extra boost of Vitamin C.  Of course!  How could I forget a basic known vitamin?  

I hadn’t really looked into what brand Vitamin C to buy so I went with the suggestion of the Whole Foods employee.  She suggested Rainbow Light Nutritional Systems Gummy Vitamin C Slices.  The gummy slices are 100% natural, gluten-free and lactose-free.  They have no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives or additives.

I can buy all the supplements in the world but the true test takers would be Amanda and Charlie.  The two are used to taking vitamins except during our 6 month hiatus.  I explained to Amanda that I wanted to make her as healthy as possible and that I didn’t want her to get those icky ear infections she dealt with last year.  I started with the fish oil followed by the multi and then gummy slices.  I was nervous mostly with the fish oil.  Both kids were troopers and took their vitamins.  Amanda said the fish oil is her least favorite and the gummy slices her most favorite (they are lightly coated with organic cane sugar but I don’t mind especially since both kids are not resistant to fish oil.)

Both kids have been taking this combination for 2 months and I just went back to Whole Foods yesterday to stock up.  I should mention that the gummy slices are recommended for children 4 and over because they are chewy.  Charlie will be 3 in December but I cut them in half and have him sit in front of me until he is done chewing.  I am looking forward for the kids to be warding off all icky colds and viruses this year.  And though this post is specifically talking about kids I hope this also reminds you to take some supplements.  No one wants to deal with colds and viruses and if you are a parent you most certainly don’t have time to get sick.

Peace & Health

J-

Broccoli with Garlic & Olive Oil Pasta

I incorporate cruciferous vegetables every day.  Aside from adding them to my green juice I try my best to throw them in as often as possible.  Whether it be in an omelette for breakfast or salad for lunch.  I love cruciferous for many reasons. They are very high in phytochemicals (carotenoids, chlorophyll, fiber, flavonoids, etc ), vitamins and minerals.  They are also known to help prevent cancers.  In 1996 The Journal of the American Dietetic Association found over 70% of studies indicated a direct link between cruciferous vegetables and cancer prevention.  Plus the possibilities are endless.  My personal favorite is broccoli. Whether that is the standard floret, rabe or broccolini.  But in case you didn’t know the follow veggies are categorized as cruciferous...  broccoli, spinach, brussels sprouts (another fave!), cauliflower, collard greens, mustard greens, turnips, horseradish, cabbage, kale, radishes, watercress, daikon, arugula, bok choy, chard, rutabaga, wasabi and many more!

Last week as many of you saw I made a broccoli with garlic and olive oil pasta.  It’s been a bit hectic with Amanda going to first grade, Charlie starting preschool and of course me too!  But as I promised you all last week here is my version of this vitamin packed meal.

1 lb. of Whole Wheat Organic Pasta
1 quart of Vegetable Stock
4 cups of Organic broccoli (can substitute for rabe too!)
4 Garlic Cloves (crushed)
1/2 cup of Organic Olive Oil
Salt, Black Pepper & Crushed Red Pepper to Taste

Here is my little trick when cooking pasta.  When available I like to cook the pasta in vegetable stock.  It gives it that little extra bit of flavor that it sometimes needs. Follow Directions on packaging as per minutes to cook.

In a small pan add oil and crushed garlic.  Set it on low to medium heat simmer and infuse the flavor of the garlic into the oil for about 5-8 minutes (depending on stove).  Just keep an eye that you do not burn your garlic.  Otherwise the taste will penetrate to the oil.  I like to leave the garlic but some people don’t like to and rather just have the benefits of the taste.  If you are a person who doesn’t want to bite into it skim the garlic out with a metal mesh skimmer.  Add Broccoli.  When Adding the Broccoli I give a VERY light sautee.  I like to keep my vegetables as raw and crisp as possible.  Give them a quick toss for about 5 minutes.  Just enough time to get the broccoli coated with the infused olive oil.

For those non-vegans you may go ahead and add some grated parmesan.  For the omnivores who would like a little extra protein some turkey sausage slices work well too!  And don’t forget to add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra punch.

Sleep Rituals For The Little Ones

Some kids have already started school and other’s like my daughter will begin this week.  As a parent and health advocate I cannot stress enough how important it is to put your kids not only to bed early but to have a sleep ritual for them as well.

As my earlier post explained, not only does your body “recharge” its energy but it also detoxes.  Let me break it down to you.  Since we are talking about children in school I will include nursery school too.  A child 1-3 years old requires 12-14 hours per day, 3-6 years old 10-12 hours, 7-12 years old 10-11 hours, 12-18 years old 8- 9 hours of sleep a night. 

Sleep is vital for growth, brain development and their overall mood and well-being.  We have a country where autism rates instead of slowing down are increasing at exponential rates and though there are cases that are valid and true as parents we MUST ensure our children are getting the proper nutrition through their diet and sleep.

It wasn’t long ago that I was a student taking classes in a teach hospital where I would go grab coffee (literally like black tar) with the med students and interns.  Between that and the lack of sleep between school and working fulltime.  You can only guess what kind of personality and mood I would be in.  It was like playing spin the wheel on the mood disorder.  You never knew what you were going to get! 

So if as an adult that I would like to think I have more control than a school aged child would get irritated and moody fairly easily than what is to expect of a child that is learning when not to blow up?

Tonight is the night before my daughter goes back to school.  I had no issues what so ever putting her to bed at 7pm.  Now I’m not saying every kid should go to bed at 7pm.  Amanda gets picked up at 6:45am and is up no later than 6am.  She requires that much sleep.  I tried having her go to bed at 8pm but she would struggle and it would cause tension in the morning.  Why put her and I through that if I know what the solution is? 

Just as an example here is our schedule (which I started weaning back into it about 3.5-4 weeks ago)

Dinner: 4:30pm

Baths:  5:15-5:45pm

Free Playtime / Movie:  5:45-6:30pm

Bedtime: 6:30pm (really goes to sleep at 7pm but by the time she’s done saying goodnight, brush teeth, glass of water and prayers, lights aren’t out until 7pm)

Story time varies.  Sometimes it’s right before bedtime must most of the time it is sandwiched somewhere during the day.

She is a child so once in a while I get a protest but for the most part because not much changes both Amanda as well as Charlie know what to expect because it has become their sleep ritual. 

See what works for your child but the most important part is to stick to the age appropriate hours of sleep for your child.  And don’t forget to make memories too!  You’ll be surprised when your child turns around to complain like mine did just recently.  I told Amanda I had to finish laundry and to do her prayers.  She said, “hey! You have to listen to them too!”

After all this is such a short period of time why are we rushing it?  Wishing you all a good night sleep for yourself and your little ones.

Peace & Health

J-

Sleep Rituals

Are you like many who are always on the go that your brain won't allow you to shut down even when it's time?

For years I have suffered from insomnia. It all started when I was pregnant with my daughter. Naturally the anxiety over becoming a parent followed by the sleepless nights of a newborn. Thank goodness Amanda slept through the night after 6 weeks. Go ahead be jealous! But of course life in general whether it's work or personal reasons we often just let another night pass with little to no sleep. Plus might I add it runs in my fathers side of the family. Dad swears we are vampires!

Anyway, a few months ago I was skulking with my Aussie friend when she shared some remarkable information with me. When our bodies sleep we naturally detoxify. I was like whoa! Wait a minute! Here I am on this constant merry go round trying to balance my body when I have an easy solution!

I decided to try a new routine that seems to be working. As I shared earlier this week I have enrolled with IIN. I have found best to do my studies in the evening. I put the kids to bed at 7pm and I head straight to the couch and unravel my iPad, glass of water and notebook. I do anywhere from 2-4 hours of work. After that I put in my favorite incense nag champa and play Snatam Kaur, Tina Malia or Deva Premal to name a few. Before I know it I am struggling to finish my blog post.

Of course there will be nights nothing works but from where I was months ago I have made a huge accomplishment. I urge you to find what works for you. Sleep is just as important as air and not only do you let your body rest and replenish energy but detoxify as well.

Good night all my Juicy followers!

Peace & Health
J-

Back To School Picks

Are any of you out there all set or gearing up for back to school?  It’s such a commotion every year.  I try my best to have everything all set before August when all the madness begins.  Luckily, Amanda’s school gives out the supply list with the year-end report card.  But supplies, ha!  That’s just half of it right?  I mean for those that go to public school you all have the headaches of back to school clothes shopping and the anticipation of the first outfit your kids will wear.  But it doesn’t just stop there, there is also backpack and lunch bags, lunch gear, school activity supplies and the list goes on and on!!!

I decided to make my favorite must haves and share them with you all.  These are products that we use and own or have done tons of research on and are as we speak ordered and on their way.

1.  Back packs & Lunch bags:  I have 2 for this list.  Some items are difficult for me to choose.  Since my daughter goes to private school and everything is the same I kind of give her card blanch on items such as backpack, shoes, etc.  In my opinion they need individuality.  Plus she’s at an age where she is past the hype over character backpack (sigh).

My pick is by Dabbawalla.  Dabbawalla are PVC, BPA, Lead, Phthalate free backpacks & Lunch Bags.  The designs are simple yet very cute and aimed more for the preschool and early elementary years.  What made me fall in love even more was that their bags are created by sewers who earn fair wages in a safe working environment.  Dabbawalla will also donate their products to schools and organizations that are in need.

Amanda’s pick is by Pottery Barn Kids.  Pottery Barn Kids backpack & Lunch bags are PVC, BPA, Lead, and Phthalate free backpack.  The patterns are endless and start off with a size perfect for your preschooler up until college.  They even carry matching duffle bags, luggage, etc if you’re into the matchy-match look (which I LOVE!)  Also, if you are lucky there is a Pottery Barn Outlet close to you.  I just happened to go and check out what they had and I scored!  Most of the patterns were from last year BUT they did have some from 2012.  Best part 2012 was reduced and 2012 was reduced and an additional discount!    Amanda chose polka dots and Charlie Batman (typical boy!)

2. Lunch & snack time:  In the category I also have 2 picks.  I fell in love with Life Factory bottles a while back.  Not only do they make glass water bottles but they also make baby glass bottles and toddler transition cups.  The bottle is BPA, phthalates, PVC, polycarbonate, latex and lead free. Bottles are hugged with a silicone sleeve that come in an array of colors and there are also spouts you can purchase if you like to switch it up between a open bottle top and a Sports top (great for working out!)  Check out www.LifeFactory.com to ordering and other details.

Many schools, my kids included prohibit glass even though these are practically indestructible.  In that case I love Klean Kanteen.

Kleen Kanteen is BPA free and 18/8 stainless steel (safest).  They too come in an array of colors and have optional sports top or open bottle mouth.  They come in various sizes and can be found at www.KleankKanteen.com Whole Foods and even Pottery Barn!  Pottery barn has several really cool patterns and even licensed characters such as the really IT Batman and Superman.

3. Food Storage:  Aside from plastic zip bags being environmentally irresponsible of us think of all the wasteful money you spend throughout your child’s life.  My kids started school at 2 years old and I’m hoping they take a home lunch up until high school (18 years old).  That will be 16 years of zip bags, aluminum foil and plastic wrap.  That can be avoided.  Yes of course I do have those items in my pantry but I use a lot less than the average person.

Lunch Bots is also BPA free and 18/8 stainless steel food system that has from circular to square and even rectangular food storage perfect for on the go kids and parents.  Lunch Bots have different sizes for all different food portions.  My favorite part is that they have a bento box style that makes lunch limitless.  You can have a piece of sandwich with some crackers and a side of fruit all in one container.  Plus they are fun to look at in the variety of colors.  Lunch Bots can be found at www.LunchBots.com and Whole Foods.

I love when I find a product that has a story.  Especially when it is determined entrepreneurs that are moms who won’t give up on using sustainable items for their children.  Three Little Birds Design Company is a shop I found via Etsy (here is their link) http://www.etsy.com/shop/3LBDC?ref=pr_shop_more

All of Three Little Birds products are produced using GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, grown and manufactured in the United States.  All products are U.S. produced and hand dyed with low impact dyes. Products included totes, linens, lunch and snack bags.  Sometimes you don’t need an entire container and you just want to throw in some carrots sticks or a single sandwich.  These little bags are perfect for them.  Plus they are reusable and washable! 

If you order three little Birds will give you a 10% discount for back to school.  I took advantage of the offer and ordered for each of the kids 2 napkins, a sandwich bag and snack bag.  One is yellow for Charlie to match his Batman theme and one is mint green for Amanda’s polka dot theme.

4.  Utensils:  not al lunches are finger foods.  And after learning my lesson last year and starting off with a 12 person flatware set and ending with 6 by the end of the school year I’m done with sending my kids (and Hubby!) with the “good stuff”.  Of course I have the option of disposable plastic utensils.  But have you ever cut your food or bitten into your fork and all of a sudden you have a piece of sharp plastic in your mouth?  Well I have.  Not fun!  At best your kids will just spit it out but of course I’m crazy and worry about the worst-case scenario.  Because that is what would happen with my kids.

Well let me paint you a picture of what could happen. Your kid can choke and swallow on a sharp piece of plastic OR can cut himself / herself or a classmate for that matter.  Have I scared you enough?

Now with all the stainless steel I’m promoting I’m not too keen on using stainless steel utensils because it scratches the interior of your container.  Instead a good alternative is bamboo utensils.  I absolutely ADORE RePeat.  RePeat come as a set that includes a fork, spoon, knife and even CHOPSTICKS!  How cool is that?  The set comes in a colored carrier of your choice.  RePeat is heat and stain resistant, won’t absorb flavors, lightweight, long lasting and vegan.  Order your set of RePeat at www.Amazon.com Just make sure that after typing RePeat you include utensils in your search.

I hope I saved you all some hectic last minute shopping as well as money in the long run.  And just remember not only the kids can have a fun lunch.  All of these items come in a varitety of sizes and us adults should have fun traveling with our lunch.

It’s Never Too Late...

I was raised on the phrase, “It’s never too late.”  Well boy is that true.  I’ve always had a passion to help others out.  And now I can officially say that I am proud and excited to announce that I have enrolled at The Institute For Integrated Nutrition.  For the next year I will be learning first hand from nutrition experts such as David Wolfe, Deepak Chopra M.D., Andrew Weil M.D., and David Katz M.D., just to name a few.

I can not wait to start on this new adventure and for the day to come where my knowledge can help others.  I know that this will not only be a learning experience but a grown experience for me as well.

I feel so blessed and thankful to have parents to believe in me and always push for me to following my dreams.  I am also fortunate to have had Mia Santos and Yvette Luciano be put in my path the past couple of months.  The two of them have really changed my life in a way that will never be able to be put into words.  Thank you to you all and I promise to make you proud!  XO

How To Make Eating Organic Affordable

If you have read some of my posts I would consider myself to always have had a healthy diet with your occasional splurges here and there. When it came to my kids though I have been more strict and preventing them to go on the SAD diet (Standard American Diet). Of course I don't deprive them of treats after all, they are children. But 90% of the time the kids snacks consist of fruits and veggies. Often parents ask me how come the kids will ask for an apple or red pepper with humus. Well, it's simple! It's a norm at our home. And the best part is that the kids truly enjoy fresh fruits and veggies.

The second question or shall I say statement that gets brought to my attention is the cost. Yes, it is for sure more expensive to eat organic. There are many ways to go about cutting the cost of organic produce.

1. You can grow your own (yes, I know not everyone has time. I'm fortunate that my wonderful husband always makes time to keep up with our garden.)
2. Join a CSA program
3. Visit your local farms
4. Shop at wholesale clubs such as Sam's, Costco, BJ's, etc. You'd be surprised how many organic products the are carrying
5. Buy produce that is on sale and freeze it.

You'll see how the pennies start adding up. And if all else fails think of the countless co-payments you will save on doctors and medication. ie: winter 2011 was when Charlie's asthma came with a vengeance. That winter alone my husband and I spent close to 1500 between hospital bills, Drs. visits and medication. Plus the torture Charlie went through.

So for us it only makes sense. And for the skeptics that don't believe food came help you heal your body well then how come food can destroy your body?

And yes, I know switching over will not be an overnight change. Start with your one staple item in your family's diet. Once you have added that each week add another. Before you know it you'll be a full blown organic eating family!