Poor sleep makes diabetes more difficult to control

A large study has found insomnia makes diabetes harder to control. Poor sleep causes higher levels of insulin resistance and higher blood sugar levels, found in a cross-sectional analysis of study participants taking part in the CARDIA heart study.

Researchers from University of Chicago Medical Center studied 40 diabetic patients who were part of the ongoing 20 year study. The participants were monitored for six nights to find the link between poor sleep and higher blood sugar levels in diabetics.

"Poor sleep quality in people with diabetes was associated with worse control of their blood glucose levels," said Kristen Knutson, PhD, assistant professor of medicine and lead author of the study. "People who have a hard time controlling their blood glucose levels have a greater risk of complications. They have a reduced quality of life. And, they have a reduced life expectancy.

The investigators measured glucose and insulin levels with blood tests. The study participants, who wore monitors to measure movement at night, reported whether they suffered from insomnia, sleep apnea or snoring.

The study found morning blood sugar levels were 23 percent higher in diabetics with poor sleep quality and insulin levels were 43 percent higher than diabetics who sleep well. Insulin resistance was 82 percent higher for poor sleepers.

Knutson says the findings are important for helping diabetics control the disease. Treating insomnia and sleep apnea could improve health outcomes and reduce complications related to poor glucose control. "Anything that we can do to help people improve their ability to control their glucose will help their lives in the long run.”

Eve Van Cauter, PhD, professor of medicine and co-author of the study says treating sleep disorders that plague a large number of diabetics may be as beneficial as prescribing medications.

Past studies have linked insomnia to a higher chance of developing diabetes from increased insulin resistance. The new study shows diabetics who sleep poorly have a more difficult time controlling blood sugar levels, putting them at risk for complications and frequent hospitalization.

Read more »

Vitamin D linked to lower risk for type 2 Diabetes

In a study following around 5,000 people for five years, researchers found out that the vitamin D with lower average level had 57 percent increase risk in developing the type 2 diabetes as compared to those who are in the level of recommended range.
Dr. Claudia Gagnon, a fellow at the Western Hospital at the University of Melbourne in Australia when the study was done, the studies like on what they did stated that the blood sugar levels of the Vitamin D higher that what it is recommended for a healthy bone may be important in order to decrease the risk of developing the type 2 diabetes.
Vitamin D is produced by the body in response to the sunlight as well as it happens naturally in some foods such as eggs, cod and salmon. Vitamin D is best known for its role in working together with the calcium to the bones.
Institute of Medicine advocates that adults obtain about 600 IU of vitamin D a day to preserve circulating levels in the enviable range. Precedent studies have revealed that vitamin D may also help keep blood sugar levels under.

Read more »

Chant of the week: Are you Cheating on your health? Let it go

We've all done it. We picked a diet , we stuck with it. Then one day out of the blue we cheat. We often lie to ourselves about it. It didn't happen. I cant believe I just did that!

This is when we fail. Not failing itself and slipping up. It happens and will happen. But it is best not let make us crash our entire diet just because of one little screw up. Allow yourself this one luxury. Come on admit it, it does feel good to cheap. I mean after all it not like your cheating on your wife in some run down hotel.

Today's message is to say let it go, and stop beating yourself up. Get back on your diet and don't look back at Sodom again

Read more »

Renewable Green Super Food

Its not easy these days to eat healthy in America. Having a renewable source of 100% organic super food in your kitchen can help anyone on a budget. Sounds complicated? Its really not. Sprouting is the process of germinating seeds to be eaten either raw or cooked. There are many seeds to choose from. However the easiest by far is the alfalfa seed. In as little as 3-5 days you can have a personal smorgasbord of green goodness at your finger tips.

You will need.
1 container (I recommend a glass mason jar) Just about anything will work.
2 tablespoons of seed
1 mesh or wire lid (use screen or cheese cloth in your in a bind.

Start by placing seeds in jar, then fill jar half full with cool clean water. Let soak for 4 hours or as long as overnight. Strain seeds, get out as much water as you can. This is the trick to good sprouting!

Now watch them grow. Giving them a bath about every other day followed by a good strain. When you are ready to harvest you can eat the sprouts with the seeds attached as I do. Or you can dunk them in a tall bath of water. The seeds should break loose and rise to the top.



QUICK FACT: Sprouts are This food is low in Saturated Fat and Sodium, and very low in Cholesterol. It is also a good source of Protein, Vitamin A, Niacin and Calcium, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Copper and Manganese.

Read more »

Chayote Squash & Nopal Cactus Salad

Chayote Squash & Nopal Cactus Salad

3-4 Nopal Cactus pads
1 Whole Chayote Squash
4 Cloves of Garlic
2 Tbs of Apple Cider Vinegar
Assorted greens or cut lettuce and tomato

Clean cactus pads and squash combine with three cups of water in a large pot add in apple cider vinegar
(optional 2 tsp of liquid aminos) bring to boil, cook only until tender. Drain and allow to cool. Mix in greens and tomato.

Great for tacos or stand alone salad.

Read more »

Say No to Vitamin Water

Its a product that has taken our country by storm. Sadly I've seen children and yes even diabetics drink it. Vitamin Water. Its super cool and sexy. Hey why not? Get all your vitamins and minerals in a bottle and you don't even have to drink that boring stuff (plain water) your grandma drank.

It tastes so good, Heck it doesn't even taste like water. Why? Well for one its full of sugar. Yep I said that right. Vitamin Water has eight teaspoons of sugar per bottle. That's just shy of what you get in a can of coke.

It clocks in at 50 calories per serving. Remember folks that each bottle, just like coke, has 2.5 servings! The sugar may hide under the ingredient list as crystalline fructose but remember Crystalline fructose is a processed sweetener derived from corn that is almost entirely fructose. It consists of at least 98% pure fructose. Crystalline fructose is estimated to be about 20 percent sweeter than table sugar, and 5% sweeter than high-fructose corn syrup.

We need to get over the illusion that products like Vitamin Water will hydrate you better than water. Want more vitamins? Eat a salad and drink some water (real water). For the price of one bottle of vitamin water (depending where you shop) you could go into your local mega-store and get yourself a 24 pack of old fashion drinking water.

Remember that the water used in Vitamin Water is not tapped from some vitamin rich source. All the vitamins are added in later in the production and in low amounts. Stick with the bottled water and dark leafy greens.

Read more »

The Best Exercise for Diabetics

You heard it from your doctor I bet. You need to eat better and exercise more. But what kind of exercise? Its kind of left open to interpretation. What is the best exercise for a diabetic and how much is enough? Ideally any activity or exercise is better then nothing at all. Any kind of movement will stimulate circulation which diabetics are known to have poor circulation.

Is Blood Sugar Ever Too High to Exercise?
Yes. In some cases, you should hold off on exercising if your blood sugar is very high.

What Types of Exercise Is Best for Diabetes?
Aerobic exercise and weight training have shown to be better for controlling type 2 diabetes in a recent study. They study shows that with a combination of these two exercise routines the group was able to lower their A1C by nearly one percentage point. Which equals nearly 30% less likely to develop later complications with their illness.

However that is not to say that other exercise routines are not good for you. I highly suggest to people who want to get into an exercise pattern to simply start walking. You don't have to be a runner either. Remember if you walk or run a mile you end up burning roughly the same amount of calories. Plus to reiterate walking can improve circulation in a short time.



Exercise helps control type 2 diabetes by:
Improving your body's use of insulin.
Burning excess body fat, helping to decrease and control weight (decreased body fat results in improved insulin sensitivity).
Improving muscle strength.
Increasing bone density and strength.
Lowering blood pressure.
Helping to protect against heart and blood vessel disease by lowering 'bad' LDL cholesterol and increasing 'good' HDL cholesterol.
Improving blood circulation and reducing your risk of heart disease.
Increasing energy level and enhancing work capacity.
Reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and releasing tension and anxiety.

Safety tips
If you have diabetes, check with your health care provider before you begin a an exercise program. Tell your doctor what kind of exercise you want to do so adjustments can be made to your medicine schedule or meal plan, if necessary.
Start slowly and gradually increase your endurance.
Choose an activity that you enjoy. You'll be more likely to stick with a program if you enjoy the activity. Make exercise a lifetime commitment.
Consider a water exercise program. Some other exercise options include walking, riding a stationary bicycle, swimming, or muscle stretching.
Exercise at least three to four times per week for 20 to 40 minutes each session. Ideally, you should exercise every day. A good exercise program should include a 5- to 10-minute warm-up and at least 15 to 30 minutes of continuous aerobic exercise (such as walking or biking) or muscle stretching exercises, followed by a 5-minute cool down.
Wear good shoes and practice proper foot care.
Drink water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
Do not ignore pain -- discontinue any exercise that causes unexpected pain. If you continue to perform the activity while you are in pain, you may cause unnecessary stress or damage to your joints.

Read more »

Medical Alert Tags... Are They Worth It?

It seems lately that I get dozens of diabetes advertisements these days touting different wears for today's diabetic. Most of them are worthless but some may deem useful given the right situation. One of the more popular items are diabetic medical alert tags.

A basic idea really. The persons name, medications he or she is taking and contact information. You might ask do I really need one? You need to ask yourself a few questions. How is my diabetes progressing and do I put myself in situations where I might need an alert bracelet?

If you are a type 1 diabetic or have high glucose sensitivity the a alert tag may be something you already wear on a daily basis. If you are managing your diabetes very well and are in good physical shape then it is unlikely you will find yourself in a situation when you would need an alert tag.

There is several caveats to that. I would wear a diabetic identification tag if I was.

1.Traveling abroad
2.competing in a sport or marathon race
3.taking a long weekend/camping/backpacking longer then 3 days

The whole idea is to identify your condition to take the guess work out of a prognosis should you find yourself unconscious in a hospital.

There are even more ways to identify yourself as a diabetic such as medical alert tattoos. It should be noted that not every doctor or nurse may spot the tattoo unless it is clearly worded out.

Read more »

Sticking for no reason?

I recently read an interesting news item from the Times Colonist out of Canada that would suggest that most Diabetics are over sticking themselves when it comes to there glucose monitoring. However it should be noted that Type 1 diabetics and others that have high blood glucose sensitivity should test more often or as recommended by their doctor.

The article would suggest that a net amount of 10 million dollars is wasted every year (in Canada) on test strips. This brings up a good point. How much is too much when it comes to your own testing?
When I was first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes I tested up to 4-5 times a day, for no good reason really.
I would test and find slightly elevated blood sugar. I would get depressed and have a lot of anxiety. Which only raised my blood pressure and lowered my general health and well being.

In the end the testing itself became the problem. Today I test my blood sugar levels once a day and that's when I'm picky. Once in the morning and once in the evening (two hours after meals) rotated every other day.

I would only suggest that if you are having a hard time with testing alone then maybe your simply over doing it. Ask your doctor of course but also ask yourself is it my blood sugar that's the problem or the obsession of reaching the perfect number?

Read more »

The American Diabetic Diet is Self-Defeating

The other day when I was checking out at the grocery store with my cart of mostly raw unprocessed food I glanced at the magazine rack in the checkout line. There must have been a half dozen magazines dedicated to managing diabetes.

One of the magazine covers featured a chocolate cake with the title “Treat Diabetes, have Cake Tonight”. Now while I'm not saying eating cake is a mortal sin, this idea that our diet should just get us under our dietary limit is at the very best counter productive.

This idea that if I limit each meal to 500 calories and only 65 carbs that I'll be fine because that's what the ADA recommends is crazy talk in my book. Many days I go way beyond the standard American dietary recommendation. High carb and high fiber diet works for me. Will it work for everyone? Most Likely! but will they implement it? Probably not.

If the ADA had any balls in their pocket they would get rid of their Draconian food pyramid and step into the future. Will they? Not a chance. It has been the standard consensus to feed your body with processed food (watered down gasoline if you ask me) that is just safe enough not to kills us but on the other hand just keeping us barely alive.

I can tell you that anyone who has simple non-complex carbs (ADA recommends this) for the building block of their diet is setup for failure.

Read more »

Ad Space

Email:DiabeticTestKitchen(AT)gmail.com

Read more »

Worst Food in America

Dairy Queen Large Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Blizzard

6 g trans fat
1320 calories
52 grams fat

Arizona RX Energy Herbal Tonic (20-ounce can)

300 calories
0 g fat
73 g sugars

P.F. Chang’s Chicken Noodle Soup

759 calories
24 g fat (4 g saturated)
4,135 mg sodium
92 g carbohydrates

Hungry-Man Classic Fried Chicken

1,020 calories
1,570 mg sodium
57 g fat (12 g saturated)

Stonyfield Farm Whole Milk Chocolate Underground

220 calories
5 g fat
(3 g saturated)
36 g sugars

Outback Steakhouse Aussie Cheese Fries

2,900 calories
182 g fat
240 g carbs

Read more »

Raw Restaurant Directory

ARIZONA

Sedona Raw Cafe
1595 W. Hwy 89A
Sedona, AZ 86336
928 282-2997 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 928 282-2997 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Email: rawcafe@esedona.netThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.chocolatesuperfoods.com

Raw restaurant, juices, books, gifts, seminars, pet friendly patio, on-site organic garden and more. Kelly the chocolatier makes extraordinary creations...
-------------------

Tree of Life Cafe (call for reservations)
771 Harshaw Road
Patagonia, AZ 85624
520 394-2589 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 520 394-2589 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
520 394-2520 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 520 394-2520 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.treeoflife.nu

Exquisite, very GREEN raw buffet creations at the healing Tree of Life centre - a wonderful place to visit. Try the brunch on the weekends, visit the hot tubs, temple, labyrinth and more...

-------------------
CALIFORNIA

118 Degrees
2981 Bristol St., B5,
Costa Mesa 92626
http://www.Shop118Degrees.com
info@shop118degrees.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
714-754-0718 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 714-754-0718 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Friendly, classy, tasty - foods, cleanses, gatherings in this Costa Mesa Cafe.

-----------------------

Alive Vegetarian Restaurant
1972 Lombard St,
San Francisco 94123
415-923-1052 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 415-923-1052 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.aliveveggie.com

Winner of the 'Best Raw Food' Award in San Francisco. A beautiful and clean space, serving a great deal of LIVING foods - very greeeeeeen ;) Also has organic/biodynamic wines available.

-------------------

Au Lac Vegetarian Restaurant
(full raw menu made in separate kitchen)
Mile Square Plaza
16563 Brookhurst
Fountain Valley, CA
714 418-0658 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 714 418-0658 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.aulac.com

The divine Chef Ito creates AMAZING foods. This is my favourite raw eatery in the LA area - Ito's frozen raw chocolate pies are outstanding.
-------------------

Cafe Gratitude
2400 Harrison St.
San Francisco, CA
415 824-4652 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 415 824-4652 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.withthecurrent.com

I LOVE Cafe Gratitude...there are three in the San Fran area and this one is my favourite...everything there from the table tops to the decor to the smiling staff to the gorgeous food resonates with love and joy... a lovely balance of sophistication and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The coconut creme pie is outrageously good...

-------------------

Cafe Muse
UCB Art Museum,
2625 Durant Ave., Berkeley
510-548-4366 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 510-548-4366 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.RawCafeMuse.com

WOW - the Berkeley Art Museum has a semi-RAW cafe :O

----------------------

Cafe Soulstice
4 E. 4th Ave.,
San Mateo 94401
650-401-6411 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 650-401-6411 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.cafesoulstice.com/

Chef Elaina Love provides raw food training and masterful creations :)

--------------------

Cilantro Live
3807 5th ave.
San Diego, CA, 92103
located between Robinson and University
619.325.1949 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 619.325.1949 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.CilantroLive.com

Cilantro Live has 3 different locations around the San Diego area - they're also in Lemongrove and Carlsbad - check their site for more details ;)

--------------------

CoOpportunity
1525 Broadway, Santa Monica 90404
310-451-8902 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 310-451-8902 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.coopportunity.com

This organic grocery store has a deli with a large range of raw foods, plus juices, smoothies and wheatgrass shots :)

---------------------

Cru
1521 Griffith Park Blvd,
Los Angeles,
California (90026)
(at Sunset Blvd opposite 99cent store, Los Feliz area)
323-667-1551 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 323-667-1551 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.CruSilverlake.com
A beautiful, elegant space decorated with simple modern decor. Food is carefully prepared and beautifully presented - really exceptional tastes and quality. The thai red curry dish and the warm chocolate brownie in particular are outstanding. Open daily, 11am-10pm. (Used to be Jade Cafe.)

-------------------

Erewhon Natural Foods Market
7660 Beverly Blvd. (East of Fairfax)
West Hollywood, CA
323 937-0777 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 323 937-0777 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.erewhonmarket.com

Beautiful big health food store with a very impressive selection of pre-prepared raw foods. Big promoters of raw food lifestyles - fresh juice and tonic bars, talks and seminars, lots of books and a 'go raw' campaign :)
-------------------

Good Mood Food Cafe
5930 Warner Ave.
Huntington Beach, CA (crossroad Springdale)
714 377-2028 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 714 377-2028 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Email: rawgourmet@earthlink.netThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.goodmoodfood.com/Cafe.htm

Raw Food Restaurant with take-out service. Run by the very active Ursula who makes amazing dessert creations, hosts raw speaking events and runs classes on raw food prep.
-------------------

Green Life Evolution Center,
410 Railroad Ave.,
Blue Lake, CA 95525
(707) 668-1781 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (707) 668-1781 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://greenlifefamily.com/

Very friendly-looking raw restaurant and 'evolution' center.

-------------------

Judahlicious
3906 Judah, San Francisco 94122-1121
415-66-juice
http://www.Judahlicious.com

Juice Bar and Raw Restaurant in San Fran - cosy, friendly and great food from Chef Briksha :)

----------------------

Juliano's Raw
609 Broadway (corner of 6th & Broadway)
Santa Monica, CA 90403
310 587-1552 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 310 587-1552 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://planetraw.com/

Flamboyant raw chef Juliano's luscious space in Santa Monica...beautiful decor, low lighting, wonderful presentation and imaginative creations...

-------------------

Leaf Cuisine
11938 W. Washington Blvd.,
Culver City 90066;
310-390-5720 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 310-390-5720 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.LeafCuisine.com

The rawmarkable Rod Rotondi's chain of certified organic, raw restaurants in the LA area - there are 3 already - Culver City, Sherman Oaks and Santa Monica Blvd - check their site for more info ;)

-------------------

Living Light Cafe
301 N. Main, Ft. Bragg 95437
707-964-2420 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 707-964-2420 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.RawFoodChef.com

Cherie Soria's Culinary Arts Institute hosts its own cafe, offering juices, smoothies and raw meals - yum :)

---------------------

Mary's Secret Garden
100 S. Fir St., Ventura 93001
805-641-FOOD
http://www.MarysSecretGarden.net

The divine little Secret Garden in Ventura - great vibe, great staff, great food - try the Raw Wrap :)

-----------------------

Mother's Market & Kitchen
19770 Beach Blvd
Huntington Beach, CA
714 963-6667 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 714 963-6667 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.mothersmarket.com

225 E. 17th Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
949 631-4741 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949 631-4741 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

2963 Michelson Drive
Irvine, CA 92612
949 752-6667 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949 752-6667 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

24165 Paseo De Valencia
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
949 768-6667 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 949 768-6667 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

These health food stores all stock a good range of pre-prepared raw foods. They also sometimes host raw food events.
-------------------

Raw Energy
2050 Addison,
Berkeley 94704
510-665-9464 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 510-665-9464 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://rawenergy.net

Raw cafe and juice bar

-------------------

RawVolution
2301 Main St.,
Santa Monica 90405
310-721-4222 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 310-721-4222 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.RawVolution.com

The restaurant of the lovely Matt and Janabai Amsden. Matt's book - RawVolution - is a very popular raw recipe book. They have a shop, raw food delivery service and much yumminess ;)

-------------------

Real Raw Live
5913 W. Franklin,
Hllywd 90028
866-563-4545 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 866-563-4545 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.RealRawLive.com

Juice bar, group cleanses.

------------------
Taste of the Goddess
(Inside of Ona Spa & Hair Salon)
7373 Beverly Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-337-7381 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 323-337-7381 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.TasteOfTheGoddess.com

Goddess-based cafes, retreats, detoc programmes and more...

---------------------

CANADA

Cafe Bliss
556 Pandora Ave.
Victoria, BC, Canada
(250) 590-5733 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (250) 590-5733 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.cafebliss.ca/

*Gorgeous* raw eatery, bursting with love, creativity and amazing food, run by the lovely Heather :)

---------------------

CONNECTICUT

Ahimsa
1227 Chapel St,
New Haven 06511
203-786-4774 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 203-786-4774 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://ahimsainc.com

Vegan/raw/organic/kosher restaurant in CT.

-------------------

Alchemy Juice Bar
203 New Britain Ave.,
Hartford 06106;
860-246-5700 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 860-246-5700 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.thegreenvibration.com/juicebar

Juice bar, raw foods, events and eco-boutique ;)

--------------------

Catch A Healthy Habit Cafe
487-A Campbell Ave
West Haven, CT 06516
(203) 521-7648 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (203) 521-7648 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (Located in the "Look At Me Now" wellness center)
http://www.catchahealthyhabitcafe.blogspot.com/

Our dear, super-energetic friend Glen's phenomenal hub for all things raw and rockin' in CT ;)

--------------

The Stand,
31 Wall St.
Norwalk, CT 06850
Mike/Carissa (203)956-5670 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (203)956-5670 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
thestandcafe@yahoo.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Wonderful little raw space in CT run by vibrant young couple Mike and Carissa, who are passionate about helping people learn about detox. Lots of fresh greens and whestgrass, juices and LOVE ;)
-------------------

ENGLAND

Manna of Brighton
24 Coombe Road
Brighton, BN2 4EA
01273 690 540
http://www.mannaofbrighton.com

Manna is a delightful, unique Brighton establishment of glowing beings, varied holistic treatments and myriad raw treats too - enjoy ;)

-------------------

VitaOrganic
Wholistic Restaurant, Alternative Cafe and Juice Bar
74 wardour st
London
W1F OTE
0207 734 8986
http://www.vitaorganic.co.uk

Nearest tube: Tottenham Court Road/Leicester Sq. Mon-Sat 12 noon to 10pm
Quality foods in the heart of London made with love and attention to detail.

-------------------

Country Life Restaurant
3/4 Warwick Street
London
W1B 5LS
Tel: 020 7434 2922
Email: info@countrylife-restaurant.co.ukThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.countrylife-restaurant.co.uk

Great buffets and raw food gatherings. Reasonable prices, in the centre of London.
-------------------

SPIRITED PALACE (Vegan/Caribbean)
105 Church Road,
Crystal Palace
London,
SE19 2PR.
Tel: 020-8771 5557 or 07939 474 507
http://www.thespiritedpalace.com

Wonderful raw/vegan/Caribbean creations, made with love and care. Juices available and events held regularly.

--------------------

FLORIDA

The Present Moment Cafe
224 W. King,
St. Augustine, FL 32084
Tel: (904) 827-4499 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (904) 827-4499 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.thepresentmomentcafe.com/

Beautiful raw eatery run by the lovely Yvette and crew - friendly, sophisticated, GREAT desserts ;)

--------------------

Glaser Farms Organic Market
The market is open every Saturday on the SW corner of Grand & Margaret
Coconut Grove in Miami, FL
305 238-7747 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305 238-7747 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.glaserorganicfarms.com

Fabulous range of prepared raw foods - cakes, crackers, pies, cookies, sauces.

---------------------

The Grass Root Life
2702 N. Florida Ave.,
Tampa 33602
813-221-7668 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 813-221-7668 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://thegrassrootlife.com

Raw foods, events, classes in Tampa.

--------------------

Hippocrates Inst
1443 Palmdale Crt.,
W. Palm Beach 33411
561-471-8876 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 561-471-8876 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://hippocratesinst.com/

The fabulous healing centre in Florida - restaurant, therapy centre, store, events and so on.

---------------------

Raw Food Underground
Emporium Shoppes
4595 Okeechobee Blvd.
(Military Trail and Okeechobee Blvd.)
West Palm Beach, FL
561 901-8097 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 561 901-8097 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://rawfoodunderground.com

Raw cafe, classes, videos and more in West Palm Beach.

------------------

Life Food Gourmet
1248 SW 22 Street
Miami, Fl 33145
(305) 856-6767 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (305) 856-6767 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
contact@lifefoodgourmet.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.lifefoodgourmet.com

Raw eatery, classes, packaged raw goodies and more...

------------------

GEORGIA

Life Grocery
Cafe 1435 Roswell Rd.,
Marietta; GA
770-977-9583 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 770-977-9583 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.lifegrocery.com

Cafe with raw items, juices, smoothies, plus whole grocery store.

----------------------

ILLINOIS

Cousin's Incredible Vitality 3038 West Irving Park Road
Chicago, IL 60618
773-478-6868 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 773-478-6868 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.cousinsiv.com

Wonderful raw eatery and store run by Mehmet Ak who lost over 100lbs by going raw. Turkish-influenced, exotic raw foods, classes and guest speakers.

-----------------------

Borrowed Earth Cafe
970 Warren Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60515
630 795-1RAW (630 795-1729 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 630 795-1729 end_of_the_skype_highlighting)
borrowedearthcafe@gmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
www.borrowedearthcafe.com

Owners: Kathy and Danny Living

Offers: delicious raw vegan food, smoothies, juices, and a tempting array of desserts. Visit to eat and enjoy their unique, environmentally friendly atmosphere--multi- color bamboo floor, no VOC paint, waterfall, hip music, and found art. All food is made-to-order but is also available for carry out and weekly or monthly food boxes. Detox classes, uncooking education, and guest speakers.

-----------------------

Karyn's Fresh Corner Cafe
1901 North Halsted Street,
Chicago, Illinois 60614
Phone: 312.255.1590 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 312.255.1590 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
karynraw@aol.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
www.karynraw.com

Long-established raw eatery in Chicago, run by detox educator Karyn Calabrese. Great raw selections - fabulous cakes. Open daily 9am to 10pm.

----------------------

NEW YORK

Bonobo's Vegetarian Restaurant and Store
18 East 23rd St.
New York, NY 10010
212 505-1200 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 212 505-1200 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Simple, canteen/deli-style cafe and take-out service. Durian ice cream :) Lots of free samples, good platter dishes and they host great talks.

----------------------
Pure Food and Wine
54 Irving Place (bet 17th & 18th Sts)
New York, NY
212 477-1010 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 212 477-1010 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Exceptional 160 seat raw restaurant, with a beautiful garden, stunning decor and quite possibly the most fabulous raw food on the planet...truly amazing food and service and a wonderful atmosphere...even cooked food eaters thoroughly enjoy the creations here...the classic house lasagna is phenomenal...
----------------------

Pure Juice and Takeaway
125 1/2 East 17th St. (between 3rd Ave. and Irving Pl.)
New York, NY
212 477-7151 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 212 477-7151 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Attached to Pure Food and Wine Restaurant, around the corner on 17th Street. Take out juices and smoothies, as well as raw food main course dishes and sumptuous desserts.
----------------------

Raw Soul Take-Out and Delivery
745 St. Nicholas Avenue
New York, NY 10031
212-491-5859 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 212-491-5859 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Email: rawsoul@rawsoul.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
http://www.rawsoul.com

Very humble, beautiful, loved little beacon of raw-dom in Harlem. Tasty food, great portions, lots of greens, very resonably priced. Organic, vegan, 100% raw soups, salads, wraps, burgers, pizza, pancakes, crepes, home-made sorrel, ginger beer, amazing desserts and specials. Educational and food preparation classes offered monthly. Full catering menu available. Open Thursday, 4:00-10:00 PM and Saturday 12:00-8:00 PM. Open House first Sunday of every month from 6:00-8:00 PM.

----------------------

24 Carrots
Organic Juice Bar
244 West 72nd Street
New York, NY 10023
212-595-2550 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 212-595-2550 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Sweet little juice bar that happily also stocks fabulous raw food creations from Raw Soul restaurant in Harlem - raw entrees and cakes, pies, salads and so on.

------------------------
OREGON

The Blossoming Lotus (some raw food options)
located in the Yoga in the Pearl
925 NW Davis
Portland, OR 97209
503 525-YOGA
http://www.blossominglotus.com

A slick little unit in a very nice yoga studio - some raw options, juices available too.
----------------------

PENNSYLVANIA

Arnold's Way Vegetarian Raw Caf?
319 West Main St., Store #4 Rear
Lansdale, PA 19446
215 361-0116 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 215 361-0116 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.arnoldsway.com

The simply fabulous establishment of raw pioneer Arnold Kaufmann. Arnold is doing exceptional work helping to spread the raw message to the masses, primarily through the medium of green smoothies. The store and cafe are packed full of raw foods, books, equipment and more. The banana whips he makes are famous and they host many inspiring talks and events.

----------------------

Loving Life Cafe'
109 Carlisle St.
New Oxford, PA 17350
717-476-LOVE (5683)
http://www.lovinglifecafe.com/

Raw services in PA. Specialise in raw pies and ice creams...yummmmmmy ;)
----------------------

UTAH

Living Cuisine Raw Food Bar, located in "Herbs for Health" at:
2144 Highland Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
(801) 486-0332 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (801) 486-0332 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://omarslivingcuisine.com/

They have a weekly Raw Food Support Group meeting Sundays at 4:00.

------------------------

WASHINGTON

Thrive
1026 NE 65th Street, #A-102
Seattle, WA 98115
206-525-0300 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 206-525-0300 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://generationthrive.com

Run by our lovely friend Monika Kinsman - mover and shaker in the Seattle raw scene ;) Impeccable food, service and style - fabulous raw eatery, open daily from 11am to 9pm.


Cafe Reiki
5413 6th Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98107
206-898-4627 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 206-898-4627 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
http://www.cafereiki.com
Raw Food Delivery Service

Café Reiki does raw menu planning for you, by packing up home-delivered vegan, raw meal boxes (four entrées, four sides, two snacks and two desserts). With a different box each week, Café Reiki will help your inner life force flow ;)

------------------------

Read more »

Free EBook

Coming Soon

Read more »

5 Diabetes Superfoods

Cinnamon

Half a teaspoon of the great spice cinnamon has been found to increase the body cells’ capacity to utilize sugar.  According to a medical study done in Maryland, in forty days’ time, regular intake of cinnamon was able to reduce blood glucose levels in numerous diabetic test subjects.  Regular use of the spice also had positive effects on the heart, too.

Cacao

Didn’t expect to see chocolate on a super food list, right? Well, buying organic chocolate (found in most health food stores) with high levels of cacao can do a body good. It may not be the tastiest thing to eat straight, but mix a bit of 100 per cent organic cacao powder into a morning smoothie or coffee, or buy chocolate bars that are at least 75 per cent cacao. Note: Snickers bars are not a healthy substitute.

Avocado

Go ahead and whip up some avocado salsa, a great side dish. Guacamole is also good for you. Avocados are high-calorie, so you don’t want to go crazy eating them, but they are said to improve blood flow, which increases brain activity.

Dark, leafy green vegetables

Spinach, collard greens, mustard greens, kale and other dark, leafy green veggies are nutrient-dense, low in carbohydrates. And I say eat all you want.

Vinegar

According to a study from the Arizona State University (East), a few tablespoons of vinegar is capable of instantly lowering blood sugar levels. In the study, pre-diabetic individuals and diabetic individuals were asked to take two tablespoons of the stuff before eating.
The results were amazing – the pre-diabetic individuals’ blood sugar level dipped by about ½ while the diabetics’ blood sugar levels dropped about ¼ its former level. Vinegar was taken before full meals (two meals, everyday).

Read more »

In Living Memory

1955-2010

In memory Of James Allyn Colditz. Who taught me more about natural living then anyone could in a lifetime.

Read more »

Getting Back to Normal

He that takes medicine and neglects diet, wastes the skill of the physician.

-Chinese Proverb

Read more »

Becoming Raw.

Would you jump into a flowing river without knowing who to swim?

Myself nor anyone who promotes raw food that is a reasonable person would expect someone to become a raw foodist over night. More then likely the dieter would quit the diet in only a few day to several weeks. Any new diet should be built up gradually. Over a period of time adding new and interesting foods to his or her menu.

I always make it a point to try something new from the produce department at least once a month (sometimes more) just too keep things new and fresh. More enthusiasm should be made on transitional foods for the new dieter. For example a sprout sandwich.

Example Recipe

Small slice of Turkey (Remember this is transitional)
Half an Avocado
Cup of Sprouts
Tomato
Two Slices of Sprouted Grain Bread
Olive Oil to taste
(build like a normal sandwich)

100% Raw 100% of the time?

Being a realist I know that for most people it is not possible to be 100% raw. Either because of social situations, economic status or will power. I will admit that I am not 100% raw and I even consume flesh every once in a great moon.

Is a 100% raw diet necessary to get the results you want? No. and studys would agree with me. 90-95% raw is the number that I personally shoot for on a daily basis. All if it being mostly organic non processed foods.

It is important that you not beat yourself up because you slipped and ate a cooked flax seed wrap with lunch instead of a lettuce leaf. If you set yourself up with a standard that is too high you will fail in your raw transition.

Read more »

Reasons to go Raw

Lower LDL (Bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (Good Cholesterol)(STUDY LINK)

Get rid of Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Lower Triglycerides

Reduce Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia

Relieve Diabetic Symptoms

Outright Reversing Diabetes

Loose Weight

Add 10 Years to your Lifespan

Lower your risk for most Cancers

Prevent Cardiovascular Disease (STUDY)

Read more »

Reversing Diabetes

Read more »

Food Inc.

Read more »

Food Matters

Read more »

30 Days Raw

Read more »

(FREE) Classic Cook Books

Nature's own book

Unpolished rice, the staple food of the Orient

A vindication of natural diet

One hundred and one practical non-flesh recipes

The golden rule cook book : six hundred recipes for meatless dishes

Substitutes for flesh foods

Vegetable diet : as sanctioned by medical men

250 meatless menus

Read more »

Is a vegetarian diet safe for Diabetics?

American Dietetic Association Volume 109, Issue 7, Pages 1266-1282 (July 2009)
It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, and adolescence, and for athletes. A vegetarian diet is defined as one that does not include meat (including fowl) or seafood, or products containing those foods. This article reviews the current data related to key nutrients for vegetarians including protein, n-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, iodine, calcium, and vitamins D and B-12. A vegetarian diet can meet current recommendations for all of these nutrients. In some cases, supplements or fortified foods can provide useful amounts of important nutrients. An evidence-based review showed that vegetarian diets can be nutritionally adequate in pregnancy and result in positive maternal and infant health outcomes. The results of an evidence-based review showed that a vegetarian diet is associated with a lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease. Vegetarians also appear to have lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and lower rates of hypertension and type 2 diabetes than nonvegetarians. Furthermore, vegetarians tend to have a lower body mass index and lower overall cancer rates. Features of a vegetarian diet that may reduce risk of chronic disease include lower intakes of saturated fat and cholesterol and higher intakes of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, soy products, fiber, and phytochemicals. The variability of dietary practices among vegetarians makes individual assessment of dietary adequacy essential. In addition to assessing dietary adequacy, food and nutrition professionals can also play key roles in educating vegetarians about sources of specific nutrients, food purchase and preparation, and dietary modifications to meet their needs.

Read more »

Recommended Links

Below is a list of resources that I recommend for anyone interested in learning more on health and wellness. I cannot vouch for any third party links that you may encounter. Remember none of these links should be taken as medical advise. When trying any product or diet, common sense is always on the side of truth no matter what some doctor told you on the internet.


Tree of Life Rejuvenation Center Gabriel Cousens, M.D
Raw Food
Fasting
Juicing Vegan

The Life Regenerator Dan McDonald
Raw Food
Life Coach

SelfNutritionData

Real data on all your favorite grub

Association of Free Clinics

Not all of us can afford a trip to the doctor. Find a free clinic today and get tested for type 2 diabetes.

Read more »

There were no signs!

When you wake up at three in the morning coughing up blood there may be a problem!




That was me, nothing but a little bronchitis. I had gone to the doctor the week before (something I had only done two other times willing in my entire life) and he had prescribed me some super cool drugs so I thought I would be A-OK.

But something wasn't OK. I was coughing up blood and a lot of it. I went back to the doctor the next day. He immediately admitted me to the hospital. It was a pneumonia he told me after looking at a chest x-ray.

And not just pneumonia. Shitty kick you in the ass double lung pneumonia that was making it hard to even stand up. Which for a 25 year old male is not common. There must be something else wrong he said, something making me Immunosuppressed. It could be anything from cancer to diabetes.

To tell you the truth the thought of cancer made me feel calm. Yea cancer... Lance Armstrong had cancer. Ball cancer to boot, now everyone loves him. This was going to be OK.

But my doctor came back with diabetes. Full blown. No surgery and chemo was going to cure me. Nothing short of a major life style change and a course of drugs was going to work at this point.

After a week a I left the hospital. I went on the pills and injections and watched my carbs. I fell into a depression. I read every book I could find on the subject. I followed the fad diets and cooky advise from even cookeyer doctors.

That's when I discovered the plant based diet, more to the the point a raw plant based diet. Real people where in effect getting cured of diabetes (total control over it). The other diets made me feel tired and the weight was not coming off.

That's when I realized that the point of these old world diets was to keep you barely alive. But the idea of eating fresh, raw (living) food was a God send. The weight fell off and the energy came back. Within a week I found that I had obtained perfect blood sugar.

So take a look around this site and learn a thing or two. Control diabetes before it blows up in your face like it did to me.

Read more »

Raw Food Success Story

I have to share this with you. If you have not heard Dan's story then you need to take some time, sit back and watch Dan The Raw Food Trucker's story from near death to amazing health.

Read more »