Island Lotions- Neem Store Skin Care

What are Parabens?

2012-01-26T08:16:00.000-08:00

Parabens are a popular family of preservatives that are used in a variety of products including; shampoo, toothpaste, cosmetics, and deodorant. Parabens are found in about 90 percent of cosmetic products. You may be wondering if so many companies put parabens in their products, how can they possibly be harmful?

The alarm about parabens causing cancer was first raised by researchers at the University of Reading in England in 2004 when parabens were identified in samples of breast tumors. This was the first study to show their accumulation in human tissues. Philippa Darbre, PH.D, lead researcher and oncology expert said that “parabens have been shown to mimic the action of the female hormone estrogen, and estrogen can drive the growth of human breast tumors.”

Unfortunately, U.S. Federal law allows the cosmetic industry to use unrestricted amounts of chemicals in their products with no regulated testing. Parabens are cheap to produce and extend the shelf life of the products far longer than any other natural ingredients used as preservatives, so parabens are the preservative of choice for most companies.

Because skincare products may sit around for some time in warehouses and stores, preservatives are necessary. But there are natural alternatives that may be used instead of parabens. So be sure to check all labels for parabens when purchasing any personal care products.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and in not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Janis

www.islandlotions.com

Is it possible to add fat to your diet and lose weight?

2012-01-15T08:46:00.000-08:00

Is it possible to add fat to your diet and lose weight? Yes, if it's the right fat, says naturopath Bruce Fife, ND, author of Eat Fat Look Thin. He recommends adding coconut oil and substituting it for polyunsaturated oils to suppress appetite, boost metabolism, and bring about weight loss.

"Lots of people have reported that when they add coconut oil to their diet, it was enough to promote weight loss," says Fife. "Some people don't notice a drop in weight, which often means they're simply eating too much. Calories are important." His own experience with coconut oil produced a gradual weight loss over six months of about 20 pounds, which he'd been unable to lose previously through diet and exercise.

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He advises using about three tablespoons of natural coconut oil, either virgin or processed, daily. His patients use it in place of polyunsaturated fats for stir-frying and salad dressings, add it to other foods, or take it straight. The fat is also present in canned coconut milk (not the liquid inside the coconut), which can be substituted for milk in many recipes, and fresh coconut fruit, which can be eaten as a snack or grated over fruits and salads.

How Does Coconut Oil Promote Weight Loss?
"I think the real key to coconut oil and weight loss is the fact that it decreases your appetite while you're eating the meal and afterwards," says Fife. "Studies show that when these fats are added, people are satisfied sooner and eat less, and at the next meal they don't make up for it by eating more."

Coconut oil is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) while most other fats, such as vegetable oils and animal fat, are long-chain triglycerides (LCTs). "The length of the molecule determines how the fat is metabolized," says Fife. MCTs are rapidly broken down, and the body burns them much like carbohydrates for energy. LCTs, however, are deposited in fat cells. "With MCTs, you're eating fat calories, but you're eating fewer effective calories because metabolism rises, and you end up burning the calories, not storing them as fat. You can eat much more coconut oil than other fats before your body will convert it into fat."

Fife says that the types of oils present in coconut oil stimulate metabolism. "It promotes thermogenesis [burning of calories to produce heat], and some people with low thyroid function tell me they feel warm and their body temperature rises one or two degrees after eating coconut oil." People with low thyroid function have a low metabolism and can have a decreased ability to lose weight.

Can a Saturated Fat Be Good for You?
Coconut oil is highly saturated fat, which puts it in a class with animal fat. It's the oil banned from theater popcorn and denounced by the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). Foods found to contain coconut oil and other highly saturated fats end up in the CSPI newsletter's "Food Porn" category.

Six years ago, Fife says he would have agreed that all saturated fats raise serum cholesterol and cause heart disease. He advocated a low-fat diet for his patients trying to lose weight. A colleague piqued his interest in coconut oil, and he began investigating the health benefits. "Coconut oil is used in IV solutions in hospitals and infant formulas," he says. "I thought, 'If it's so bad, why is it given to sick people and babies?

"MCTs are digested much quicker than LCTs, and by the time they reach the intestinal tract they're completely broken down."
Because they're so easily digested, MCTs in coconut oil are used to provide nourishment to people, such as AIDS patients who have trouble digesting fat. There's further interest in their potential to improve athletic endurance and treat type 2 diabetes.
The limited number of studies on oils similar to that found in coconut (in the form of palm kernel oil, coconut oil, linoleate, and other oils) and weight loss show conflicting results. Two researchers at McGill University in Quebec, Marie-Pierre St.-Onge and Peter J. H. Jones, published a review of the literature in the March 2002 issue of the Journal of Nutrition. Animal trials show that substituting MCTs for LCTs over long periods could produce weight loss. From these preliminary studies they concluded that these types of oils produced an increase in energy expenditure and resulted in a decrease in food intake, suggesting the potential for weight control.

The American Heart Association's Position
Where does the American Heart Association weigh in on coconut oil as an aid to weight loss? "I would be very pessimistic about this, says Robert Eckel, MD, the Association's spokesman on nutrition. He says he's concerned about the effects of high levels of saturated fat. "This is going to be a cholesterol-raising diet."

He says he also doubts claims that coconut oil can boost metabolism. "People have looked in the past as to whether MCTs have thermogenic properties, and I think the answer is pretty well negative. Generally, saturated fats tend not to be as well [metabolized], so if it does have any ability to promote heat generation, it's going to be minimal."
Eckel says coconut oil's effect on metabolism, if any, is modest compared with the potential for raising overall cholesterol and particularly "bad" LDL cholesterol. "Ingesting coconut oil for a short period of time will not do harm, but I'm concerned about the long haul."

Another Viewpoint

"I think coconut oil is promising, but I wish it weren't promoted as 'eat coconut oil and lose weight,'" says Glenn S. Rothfeld, MD, MAc, clinical assistant professor of family medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston and medical director of WholeHealth New England in Arlington, Mass. He and co-author Deborah S. Romaine wrote Thyroid Balance: Traditional and Alternative Methods for Treating Thyroid Disorders. "The only problem for me is the lack of research." He says most of the studies have been on all the oils and the results are not specific to coconut oil.
He says MCTs have a small and indirect influence on thyroid function, affecting metabolism because they're an efficient fuel. He adds there's some suggestion that MCTs boost the levels of thyroid hormones, which are essential to metabolism, in people with low levels of those hormones. He also advises against taking coconut oil on an empty stomach as it may produce bloating and gas.
Even though three tablespoons of coconut oil represents 360 calories, Rothfeld says those calories needn't concern dieters because they're quickly converted to energy. "Calories aren't all alike," he says, giving an example of two groups in a study who were fed just once a day, one group in the morning and one at night. "They consumed the same 1,200-calorie meals, but the morning group lost weight."

Rothfeld says he doesn't see anything intrinsically bad in coconut oil although he wouldn't recommend it for someone with severe diabetes or a liver condition. "The business about oils has been so confusing," he says. "Thirty years ago, it was found that polyunsaturated oils were great. Now it's found they're not so great. It's fairly certain we eat too many grain-based oils, and olive oil becomes rancid if it's left on the shelf too long. I think it's going to turn out we need a balance of things."

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

Coconut oil pie crust recipe

2011-11-14T11:25:00.000-08:00

Although Bob and I limit our intake of sweets,we enjoy an occasional pie, more than most other desserts, and our favorite is full of berries; blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries. Of course we should eat the wonderful anti-oxidant-containing berries raw, and we do that as well, but as a treat, it is much more fun to eat them in a pie, warm from the oven. I am tempted to say with a lovely scoop of ice cream, but I better stop while I’m ahead.

Often the least healthy part of a pie is the crust. The crust usually contains shortening, because the flakiest, most tender crusts are made with shortening, and shortening contains trans fats, which have been linked to a number of adverse health effects. But I just discovered you can use coconut oil instead of shortening. It’s flaky, tender, crunchy, and buttery, without the trans fats.

You can use 100% coconut oil, or 1/2 coconut oil and 1/2 butter. As with all crusts, it is imperative to keep the coconut oil (and butter) super cold and handle the dough as little as possible. It is recommended that once you measure the coconut oil (and butter, if using), to place it in the freezer for a few minutes. Then as you cut it into the flour, only do so until it begins to look like pea-sized lumps.

The water also needs to be very cold. When you stir the water into the flour, stop once it forms a crumbly dough – do not over stir it, or it will toughen the crust.
Then turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead just until it looks fairly smooth, but still a bit lumpy. You can add a little more water, if needed. Then just put it in the pie pan and trim the edges.

We think coconut oil does make the healthiest pie crust, and it tastes great too! Here’s the recipe:

Coconut Oil Pie Crust
¾ cups coconut oil (or a mix of coconut oil and butter)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
3 – 4 tablespoons ice cold water
Mix the flour and salt together. Cut the coconut oil (and butter) into the flour mixture with a pastry blender or two knives. Add the water 1 tablespoon at a time and mix well.
Roll out on a floured surface. Carefully place into a pie pan and trim edges as necessary.

Happy Holidays!

Janis

http://www.islandlotions.com/

Coconut Oil May Help Prevent Vision Loss

2011-10-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

My father had macular degeneration, which is the most common cause of blindness in the United States, affecting more than 10 million Americans. Of course this is not just a problem in America, this is happening all over the world at an ever-increasing rate. The chances of developing age-related macular degeneration for those 55 and older are about 1 in 10! Fortunately, some new research shows that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may be preventable.

What happens with macular degeneration is the central portion of the retina deteriorates. The retina’s central portion is known as the macula, and is responsible for focusing central vision in the eye, and it controls out ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces and colors, and see objects in fine detail.

Thirty years ago, the major reason for blindness in the United State was diabetes, and it was very rare to even hear about AMD. But today AMD has overtaken diabetes fivefold and is not the leading cause of blindness. About 2/3 of those who become blind lose their vision to AMD.

This is a disease that progresses slowly, but it can affect eyesight very quickly. This condition disabled those who are stricken by it. A person with AMD can lose their eyesight in two months or less. These people lose their independence along with their eyesight. Not being able to read labels in the store makes it hard to even do their shopping on their own, let alone drive themselves to the store.

Researchers have spent years studying the causes of this disease and trying to find a cure. Very new research suggests that coconut oil may help prevent this condition. Studies are showing that if your diet includes soybean, corn, and other processed vegetable oils, you may be at high risk for developing AMD.

The newer research shows that people who eat polyunsaturated vegetable oils get the disease twice as often as those who don’t. Even more interesting is a recent study where those eating a lot of vegetable oil got AMD 3.8 times the rate of those eating a little vegetable oil. Eating saturated fat has the lowest risk, and the higher degree of saturation, the better.

The oils that you ingest become part of your eye. Polyunsaturated oils, as I have stated in previous blogs, are very susceptible to becoming rancid. The rancid oils interfere with normal cell function, leading to macular degeneration.

Rancid oils create destruction free radicals, which rip other molecules apart, causing irreversible damage to cells. Antioxidants help prevent the formation of free radicals, which is our only defense against free radicals. Our bodies make antioxidants from the nutrients in our diet. So a diet high in antioxidant nutrients, especially lutein, has been recommended as a means to treat and help prevent AMD.

Saturated fats, such as the fats in coconut oil, are very resistant to becoming rancid. Coconut oil is higher in saturated fat than any other dietary fat, so it is very stable and helps prevent the formation of free radicals in our bodies.

The oils you need to be careful about eating are the ones most people use every day; soybean, safflower, corn, and other polyunsaturated oils, including margarine and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. Even canola oil, even though it is a monounsaturated fat, isn’t safe. Olive oil is better, because it has a higher percentage of saturated fat.

Even harder to remember to look for are the oils in packaged foods and junk food, which are often loaded with hidden polyunsaturated oils. Be sure to read all labels and watch for vegetable oils that may be causing free radicals in your body.

Many people are very surprised to hear this about vegetable oils, thinking they are much better for you than saturated fat, but with coconut oil, just the opposite is true.

After watching my father lose his eyesight and independence to AMD, I see how very important it is to take care of our bodies and eat the right foods, including coconut oil. That is the only oil we use in our home now.

This statement has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and in not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Janis
http://www.islandlotions.com/Organic%20Fiji/organicfiji.htm

Neem Anti-Itch Formula

2011-10-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

Since my skin is very sensitive, I am the company guinea pig. I always try all new products on my skin and hair before we decide whether or not to sell a particular product. If the product passes the test, then we can move ahead, otherwise we don’t sell it. I had tried the Neem Anti-Itch formula on my skin when we first decided to carry it, and it passed the test, but I recently had an opportunity to put this wonderful product through more rigorous testing.

For some unknown reason, I am very tasty to bugs, so I often get some bites during the summer. A couple of weeks ago while we doing yard work, I was well immersed in the middle of some old bushes that we were cutting back. Some bugs, probably spiders by the look of the bites I received, made their way over my body, leaving over 20 bites. These bites were red and itchy, so I thought what a great time to give the Neem Anti-Itch Formula a good field test. I put a little bit of the Anti-Itch on each bite, except one. The itching stopped within a few minutes, except on the non-treated bite.

The next day the bites all started itching again. Once again I put the Anti-Itch Formula on all the bites except the same one that I had not treated the day before. Again, the itching stopped and stayed away all day, except for the non-treated bite. The non-treated bite also grew in size and became redder over these two days, but the others got better. By the third day, all the bites had stopped itching, even the non-treated bite, but the treated bites were smaller and less red than the non-treated bite. I did not treat any of the bites after that, but by the end of one week, the treated bites were disappearing, and the one non-treated bite was still rather red and much larger than the other bites.

By the end of two weeks, the treated bites were pretty much gone, and the non-treated bite was getting better, but was still somewhat red. I was delighted to see these results, as I take this as proof that the Neem Anti-Itch does indeed not only stop the itching, but it helps heal the bite as well.

This statement has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and in not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

TheraNeem Supercritical Extract Capsules

2011-10-05T11:26:00.000-07:00

The topic of my last blog about TheraVeda Immune Support goes hand in hand with this blog’s theme; TheraNeem Supercritical Extract Capsules. Both of these products help support the immune system and are a great tool to help keep your body healthy during the winter cold and flu season.

TheraNeem Supercritical Extract Capsules provide a full range of neem’s therapeutic properties in a tiny, easy-to-swallow gel cap.

Powerful immune support and antioxidant
Supports liver function and bile flow
Supports healthy skin and helps prevent non-cystic acne
Maintains blood sugar levels already within a normal range
One gel cap has TEN TIMES the potency of Neem Leaf Extract
Contains 8 mg of pure, potent, concentrated (50:1) organic Neem Leaf Extract

Neem leaf, when taken internally, acts as a blood purifier and tonic, supports healthy skin, immune system response, healthy bowel function, and aids in the maintenance of glucose stability.

Supercritical CO2 Extraction is an advanced process which increases the potency and purity of extracts, without using solvents. Instead it uses naturally occurring carbon dioxide (the same stuff that puts the bubbles in your sparking water), resulting in a pure extract with no solvent residue.

TheraNeem Capsules contain NO corn, soy, salt, yeast, sugar, wheat, egg, or dairy products and are formulated without the use of preservatives, artificial colors or flavors.

NOTE: Not recommended for use by pregnant or nursing women or anyone (male or female) trying to conceive a child. Not recommended for children under the age of 12. This statement has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and in not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

I hope everyone has a cold and flu-free winter this year.

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

Immune Support

2011-09-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

With fall comes another cold and flu season. Time to start taking extra steps to stay healthy.

One of my recommendations is TheraVeda Immune Support found in this Neem Store link TheraVeda Immune Support. This natural herbal product supports healthy immune system function and boosts overall energy levels. This product is full of organic, whole herb ingredients. It is great to take the Immune Support all year round, but even more important during cold and flu season.

TheraVeda Immune Support contains:

Guduchi, a nutritive herb that supports immune system functions
Turmeric, a potent antioxidant known for supporting a healthy inflammation response
Ashwagandha, a powerful adaptogen known for its ability to support a healthy stress response
Holy Basil, a well-loved adaptogen known for promoting healthy respiratory function
Ginger, promotes healthy digestion and a healthy response to inflammation
Neem, rich in antioxidants that support the immune system

Immune Support is the perfect herbal blend of adaptogenic and immuno-supportive herbs to give the body the tools it needs to stay strong and healthy.

SUGGESTION: This formula may be combined with any of the other TheraVeda formulas. Please use this link to see the Neem Supercritical Extract Capsules.

Immune Support is the perfect herbal blend of adaptogenic and immuno-supportive herbs to give the body the tools it needs to stay strong and healthy.

Organix-South® uses an innovative, patent-pending technology that combines powerful supercritical extracts (SCO2), hydrophilic extracts and raw whole herbs to create our TheraVeda® dietary supplements. This process allows us to offer the targeted potency and concentration of the extracts along with the holistic benefits of the whole herb, unlike any other herbal supplements available today.

Organix-South®’s TheraVeda® vegetarian capsules are gluten-free and contain NO corn, soy, salt, yeast, sugar, wheat, egg or dairy products and are formulated without the use of preservatives, artificial flavors or colors.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

Coconut Oil Helps Get Rid of Acne

2011-09-15T11:17:00.000-07:00

Coconut oil’s antimicrobial agents help to keep disease-causing skin infections at bay. Acne is one of the plagues of modern man, but it is unheard of among the Pacific islanders who use coconut oil every day.

Acne is a skin disease that is very common among adolescents, afflicting more than 85 percent of teenagers in the United States. Acne is an inflammatory infection caused by bacteria which colonizes the hair follicles and feeds on the natural oils of the skin.

Most doctors recommend antimicrobial agents and antibiotics to treat acne. Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most frequently recommended medications for treating patients who suffer from mild to moderate acne. But there have been several side effects reported by those patients, including; redness, inflammation, scaling, and burning. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology published a study that showed that the lauric acid (the primary fatty acid in coconut oil) demonstrated antimicrobial activity that was 15 times stronger than Benzoyl peroxide for this purpose, while not producing any unpleasant side effects.

Most people associate acne with oily skin, since acne feeds on the oil that is produced in the skin; the more oil produced, the greater the chance of infection. So putting oil on the skin may seem counterproductive, but because of the lauric acid in coconut oil, the oil actually kills the bacteria that produce acne.

If you or a family member is bothered by acne, you may want to give coconut oil a try. It is much safer than the chemicals prescribed by most doctors for this treatment.

Until next time.

Janis

www.islandlotions.com

Why is Coconut Oil So Great for Your Skin?

2011-09-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

Because of Free-Radicals, commercial creams and lotions generally contain mostly water. This moisture is absorbed into dry skin, expanding the tissues so that wrinkles fade away and the skin feels better. But this is just a temporary fix.

When the water evaporates or is absorbed into the body, the wrinkled skin returns. The other main ingredient in most commercial products is an oil, which is nearly always a highly-refined vegetable oil that is missing all of the natural protective antioxidants. Refined vegetable oils lead to a large number of free radicals, both when we use them in our foods and when they are used on our skin and hair.

Free radicals can cause a chain reaction which produces more free radicals, which end up damaging thousands of skin molecules. Our body fights free radicals with antioxidants; the chain reaction is stopped by antioxidants.

We get most of our antioxidants through our diet, but having antioxidants in our skin and hair care products is important too. As I have stated in previous articles, coconut oil is one of the few oils that does not need to go through a refining process, so Virgin Coconut Oil is especially helpful in fighting free-radicals.

So the ideal skin and hair care products are made with oils that not only soften the skin, but protect it against damage and promote healing. All of the oils in our products (coconut, kukui, and neem) are of this type of oil. They help and heal the skin, rather than just giving it a temporary fix. These products will have lasting benefits, unlike most commercial lotions.

So use a good quality unrefined oil for your dietary needs, as well as your skin and hair. Nourish your body inside and out with Virgin Coconut Oil. If you have not tried this great product yet, give yourself a treat!

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

Announcing Two New Products!

2011-08-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased to tell you about our new products! The Naked Organix Kukui
product line offers a concentrated plant-based formula to protect, repair and moisturize your face and body.

Their products are hand crafted in small batches and contain only
the finest organic, wild-crafted ingredients.

These products are paraben free, SLS free, gluten free, petrochemical free, ohthalate free and fragrance free for those looking for pure, unadulterated botanical formulas.

_______________________________________________

Naked Organix Kukui Cleansing Bar -- I am excited to have such a wonderful, organic highly moisturizing soap to use; my dry skin really loves this bar. If you have enjoyed our other neem soaps and are a fan of Kukui, do give this one a try!

The Kukui Cleansing Bar offers a concentrated plant-based formula to protect, repair and moisturize face and body.

Ingredients: Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Elaeis
Guineensis (Palm) Oil*, Sodium Hydroxide, Aqua Water/Eau, Aleurites Moluccana
(Kukui) Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parki (Shea Butter)+, Simmondsia Chinensis
(Jojoba) Seed Oil* and Rosmarinus Officinals (Rosemary) Leaf Extract. *Certified
Organic.

________________________________________

Naked Organix Kukui Body Butter -- is also a new product for you to try. Kukui oil, also known as Candlenut, is a tropical tree that originated in Indo-Malaysia and spread to the Hawaiian islands where it has been prized for its soothing benefits.

Kukui oil is rich in Vitamins A, E, C and alpha-lineolic acid, making it an ideal ingredient to renew and nourish dry or sun-exposed skin.

Ingredients: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)+, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*,
Beeswax, Aleurites Moluccana (Kukui) Seed Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed
Oil*, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter*, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil*
and Tocopherol (Plant Source Vitamin E).

We hope you enjoy our new products as much as we do! Please let us know how you enjoy these new items, we love to get your feedback.

Janis & Bob
http://islandlotions.com/kukui_soap.htm

Coconut Oil is a Powerful Germ Fighter

2011-08-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

Coconut oil is anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial. It kills viruses such as herpes, HIV, hepatitis C, flues, and mononucleosis. It also kills the bacteria that cause pneumonia, urinary tract infections, meningitis, gonorrhea, pneumonia, and many other infections. It kills the fungus and yeast infections that cause Candida, ringworm, athlete’s foot, diaper rash and more.

Coconut oil isn’t a cure by itself, but it contains properties that make it a powerful germ fighter.

The main ingredient in coconut oil that does these amazing things is lauric acid, which is a strong antimicrobial. Lauric acid is also a main component in mother’s milk which protects infants against infections and viruses. Approximately 50% of the fatty acids in a good-quality coconut oil are lauric acid. For this reason, many people believe that adding pure virgin coconut oil to your diet will help build your immune system and protect you against bacterial and viral infections.

We will post more information on this but you can also go to our web site at:

http://www.islandlotions.com/coconut-oil/organicfiji.htm

Janis

Why is Coconut Oil So Good to Use?

2011-08-11T08:30:00.000-07:00

Coconut oil has gotten a bad rap in the past, because it is high in saturated fat. But now researchers have proven that coconut oil is actually one of the healthiest oils you can use for nearly every purpose. The fat in coconut oil is very unique and has many health-giving properties.

The fat molecule of coconut oil is the big difference. All fats and oils are made up of molecules called fatty acids. There are saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats, that is one classification. The other classification is based on the size of the molecule or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. In this category there are short-chain, medium-chain, and long-chain fatty acids.

Coconut oil is predominately composed of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA’s). The great thing about this is MCFA’s are very different from short-chain and long-chain fatty acids in ways that are good for our bodies. MCFA’s do not have a negative effect on cholesterol and actually help to protect against heart disease. MCFA’s help to lower the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. This is what makes coconut oil so beneficial.

There are only a very few sources of MCFA’s, and the best sources are from coconut and palm kernel oils.

We will post more information on this but you can also go to our web site at:

http://www.islandlotions.com/coconut-oil/organicfiji.htm

Thanks,

Janis

Using Sunscreen and Sunblock

2011-07-13T08:40:00.000-07:00

The ideal sunscreen would completely block the UV rays that cause sunburn and damaging free radicals. It would not form harmful ingredients when degraded by UV rays. It would have a pleasant smell and feel nice on the skin so people reapply it frequently. It would also contain no chemicals or artificial ingredients that do more harm than good.

But, unfortunately, there is currently no sunscreen that meets all of these criteria. The choice in the United States is between sunscreens filled with chemicals which have inferior stability, penetrate the skin, and may disrupt the body’s hormone systems, and mineral-based sunblocks that contain zinc and titanium.

Many experts consider mineral sunblocks to be safer than chemical-laden sunscreen. Sunblocks are stable in sunlight and do not appear to penetrate the skin. They offer UVA protection, which is lacking in most sunscreen products. The blocks, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, work by reflecting the sun’s rays away from the skin; while sunscreens, with chemicals such as benzophenones and cinnamates, work by absorbing the sun’s rays before they enter the skin. The chemical particles in sunscreens are small enough to enter the bloodstream. Sunblocks like zinc have molecules that are too large to pass through the skin.

Using a mineral sunblock doesn’t mean you have to look like the lifeguards of yesteryear, with thick white goo smeared all over your body. Researchers have discovered how to pulverize sun-blocking minerals so they are colorless and glide on smoothly.

Many sunscreens contain a form of vitamin A to help minimize the aging effects of the sun. Although this may sound like a good idea, researchers at the National Toxicology Program tell us that the vitamin A compound, retinyl palmitate, used in at least 40% of commercial sunscreens may speed up the development of skin cancer-related tumors and lesions when used in sunlight.

Two more common sunscreen chemicals, oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been linked to allergic contact dermatitis and photocontact dermatitis, as well as hormone disruption in the body.

Remember, your skin is your largest organ, and also the thinnest. Most products you rub on your skin will end up in your bloodstream, and will be distributed throughout your body. Putting chemicals on your skin may actually be worse than eating them. When you eat something, the enzymes in your saliva and stomach help to break it down and flush it out of your body. But when you put chemicals on your skin, they are absorbed straight into your bloodstream without filtering of any kind.

Mineral Oil

Many tanning products contain mineral oil, often as their main ingredient, because it is very slippery, allowing the lotion to be spread easily across the skin. Mineral oil may sound safe, but it's not. Mineral oil is actually a derivative of petroleum, just like the oil you put in your car's engine. Mineral oil is a known carcinogen! It is also comedogenic, which means it blocks your pores and your skin's natural respiration process. Alternate names for mineral oil include; adepsine oil, lignite oil, petrolatum, albolene, paraffin oil, white oil, drakeol, mineral seal oil, and baby oil – yes, baby oil!

SPF Numbers can be Confusing

The SPF number shown on the bottle refers only to a sunscreen’s ability to block the sunburn-inducing UVB rays, not the UVA rays. UVA rays are the ones that cause wrinkles and skin cancer, though excessive exposure to both types of rays can lead to skin cancer. The FDA is considering dropping the SPF number rating and creating a set of guidelines that would use a four-star system to rate a sunscreen’s effectiveness against UVA rays.

Expiration Date

Always check the expiration date on all sunscreens before using them. Most sunscreens are designed with specially formulated stabilizers that protect its potency for up to three years, but that’s assuming you did not let it cook in the sun at the beach. Leaving sunscreen in intense heat for a prolonged amount of time may make it less effective, so be sure to store sunscreen in a cool place.

Skin Cancer

Of course we all know that long-term, excessive sun exposure may lead to skin cancers, especially in people with certain skin types. But I have recently read several reports that state experts now believe moderate sun exposure can actually help prevent melanoma skin cancer, due to the Vitamin D we get from exposing our skin to sunlight. There is evidence that a moderate amount of unblocked sunlight is actually beneficial to most people, reducing the risk of many diseases, including melanoma.

Sunscreen and Medication Interactions

Medications like tetracycline, diuretics, and painkillers such as Celebrex, Aleve, and ibuprofen increase your chances of getting a sunburn. They make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, specifically to UVA rays, which means you need to be extra vigilant about sunscreen when you’re taking these medications.

Makeup with SPF

Makeup and moisturizers with SPF will protect your skin if you load them on and reapply every 90 minutes or so, but no one does that. According to a recent study from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, most facial creams containing SPF have very little of the more important UVA-blocking ingredients. In a research that analyzed 29 daily face creams with an SPF of 15 to 50, only six of them contained enough UVA-blocking ingredients to provide adequate UVA protection.

How about the environment?

Twenty thousand tons of sunscreen wash off swimmers, divers, and surfers into the oceans every year, eventually affecting marine life, according to a 2008 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives. Researchers say sunscreens with octinoxate, oxybenzone, parabens, or camphor derivatives are killing hard corals (which could negatively impact all biodiversity and reef ecosystems). Coral needs a certain temperature and amount of light, plus salinity within a narrow range to grow. Fortunately, most sunscreens sold under the natural label are biodegradable because they do not contain petroleum-based products.

Many salt-water parks that offer snorkeling now are requiring visitors to use biodegradable sunscreen.

Natural Alternatives

There are many natural ways to prevent sunburn, other than slathering on a lot of toxic ingredients and chemicals. As I mentioned earlier, there are mineral-based sunblocks that are much better than older-generation sunblocks.

There are UV-rated clothes available that block both UVA and UVB rays. These are very light weight and may even be worn while engaged in water activities.

I prefer to use what the Hawaiians have been using for many, many years; kukui oil and coconut oil. I use one of these oils every morning, all year round. They absorb easily and keep my body moisturized.

Using Antioxidants for Sun Protection from the Inside

Some experts stress the importance of sun protection from the inside out. The internal environment of your body is often ignored, and getting antioxidants into the body has been proven to help prevent sun damage. This is one more good reason to load up on lycopene-rich fruits and veggies such as watermelon, guava, pink grapefruit, and tomatoes. A 2010 study published in the British Journal of Dermatology suggests the potent antioxidant lycopene acts as a sunscreen from within the body. Women whose diets included 16 milligrams of lycopene every day (the amount in about two cups of diced watermelon) for 12 weeks showed a reduction in the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays, including sunburn and cellular damage. Tomatoes are the richest source of the antioxidant, especially when cooked (heating tomatoes releases more of the lycopene).

Vitamins C and E are also beneficial when applied topically. Initial studies show that these vitamins can give skin four times more sun protection. Furthermore, when used together, vitamins C and E work synergistically to provide better protection than when used alone. They work so well, according to research, because the sun lowers the skin’s levels of vitamins C and E, indicating that one way the sun may damage skin is by lowering its antioxidant defenses. It helps when we build up natural defenses with topical applications.

As compelling as the news on antioxidants is you should never count on them alone for complete sun protection. Instead, use them in conjunction with a mineral-based sunblock, a natural, chemical-free sunscreen and clothing to protect against sunburn and damage to your skin.

And remember, sunlight is not our enemy. We all need Vitamin D every day, and getting it from the sun is the best way to obtain that very important nutrient.

Have a safe and healthy summer!

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

The Omegas -- Essential Fatty Acids

2011-04-08T09:49:00.001-07:00

Our bodies need fats to run smoothly, and giving them the right kinds of fat is very important for our health and well being. Fats are a group of chemical compounds that contain fatty acids. We need fat in our diets because energy is stored in the body mostly in the form of fat. Fatty acids also aid in digestion, and work toward insulin production by the body. They assist in oxygenation of the blood and also help aid the transport of energy to all parts of the body. Researchers have found that diets that are not rich in Omega-3 fatty acids not only retard weight loss, but they are not healthy due to the reasons shown here.

The brain is approximately 60% fat and needs essential fatty acids to ensure proper brain health. Brain and nerve cells require proper feeding to function properly. Changes in cellular fluidity of these cells can impact behavior, mood, and even mental functioning.

Of these essential fatty acids, there are three main families; Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9. I will present some basic information about each of the three main families over the next few articles. I will start with Omega-3, because most of us do not get enough of this very vital fatty acid.

Omega-3

There are three different types of essential fatty acids in the Omega-3 family that we need. They are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docasahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Omega-3’s are best known for their anti-inflammatory properties and heart benefits, including helping with irregular heart beats (arrhythmia) and lowering triglycerides. Here is a list of a few of the things omega-3s are linked with in aiding both prevention and treatment:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Depression/bipolar disorders
• ADHD
• Asthma
• Skin disorders
• Breast, colon, and prostate cancers
• Premature births
• Hot flashes

Omega-3’s support the normal development of the brain, eyes, and nerves. In testing, it was found that just 1% of total calories enabled normal growth of these vital body parts. Omega-6’s, on the other hand, support dermal integrity, renal function, and parturition.

Our bodies cannot make Omega-3, so it has to be obtained through our diet or supplements. While we can synthesize some EPA and DHA from ALA, less than 10 percent is converted at a time. So we must fulfill our needs from diet or supplements.

Good sources of ALA omega-3s include:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Brussels sprouts
• Parsley
• Chia seeds
• Flaxseed and flaxseed oil
• Hemp seeds
• Mustard seeds and oil
• Walnuts and walnut oil

Some poultry is fed flaxseed oil or meal, resulting in omega-3 enriched meat and omega-3 supplemented eggs. It is best to only buy pasture-raised local eggs, or those that are fed flax seed meal. These eggs are likely to have a 1-to-1 omega-3-to-omega-6 profile, rather than the harmful profile found in most commercial eggs. Commercial eggs that state they have been enriched with omega-3 may not have enough omega-3 to make the ratio much better, and the omega-3 they add may be rancid.

DHA and EPA are considered more important than ALA. DHA and EPA are only found in oily cold-water fish, like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, and tuna. It is also found in organ meats, plant oils, krill, and algae, like spirulina or chlorella. But most algae-based supplements contain only DHA, but not EPA, so you should be aware of this if choosing algae supplements over fish oil supplements.

It is very important, when choosing fish and fish oil that you choose the right type of fish. For fish oil supplements, look for natural forms that have been purified by molecular distillation, to ensure the product is free of mercury and other contaminants. Look for both EPA and DHA in the supplement. Always check the expiration date, and note any bad smell or taste or discoloration, which may mean the oil has expired or oxidized. The AMA recommends that individuals that do not have allergies to fish should consume 1 to 3 grams of fish oil per day.

Fresh fish that are good food sources of omega-3s are:

• Tuna (fresh or canned light tuna)
• Pollock
• Cod
• Catfish
• Flounder
• Mahi Mahi
• Red Snapper
• Swordfish
• Halibut
• Herring
• Mackerel
• Oysters
• Salmon
• Sardines
• Trout

One important warning about taking fish oil supplements is they tend to thin the blood, so if bleeding or blood clots are an issue, or if you are on blood-thinning medications, then you should consult your doctor before taking any fish oil omega-3 supplements or eating too much oily fish.

DHA and EPA are made by microalgae that live in seawater. These are then consumed by fish and accumulate to high levels in their internal organs. People with certain circulatory problems, like varicose veins, benefit from such supplements containing EPA and DHA which stimulate blood circulation, increase the breakdown of fibrin, a compound involved in clot and scar formation, and additionally have been shown to reduce blood pressure.

Krill oil is a relatively new source of omega-3 fatty acids. Various claims are made in support of krill oil as a superior source of omega-3. Krill are not as susceptible to contamination as fish and contain a special antioxidant called astaxanthin. However, numerous studies have found krill is often contaminated by pollution and astaxanthin has not been demonstrated to have a very potent antioxidant capacity.

Meat sources of omega-3s:

• Grass-fed beef or lamb
• Free-range chicken and turkey
• Eggs from free-range and/or flax-fed chickens

When choosing meats, it is vitally important to eat only free-range, grass-fed beef and free-range or flax-fed chickens and turkeys. Animals that are fed corn or grains will have a high amount of omega-6, not omega-3, and they may contain other contaminants that you should not eat.

Most of us consume much more omega-6 than omega-3 fat. Omega-3 and omega-6 compete to be transformed in our bodies, so the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 directly affects our health. The two omegas work synergistically, so if one or the other is more present in the body, then the effect can be damaging to our health. The two omegas compete for the same rate-limiting enzymes. A high proportion of omega-6 to omega-3 fat in the diet shifts the physiological state in the tissues toward the pathogenesis of many diseases. Excessive intake of omega-6 fats is associated with heart attacks, stroke, arrhythmias, arthritis, osteoporosis, inflammation, mood disorders, obesity, and cancer. In fact, many of the medications used to treat and manage these conditions work by blocking the effects of the potent omega-6 fat, arachidonic acid.

Omega-6 is converted by the body into pro-inflammatory agents called prostaglandins. One of these, thromboxane, is a factor in the clumping of platelets, which leads to thrombosis. Omega-3 is converted by the body into anti-inflammatory agents called omega-3-oxylipins, and EPA forms potent anti-inflammatory nanomolecules in the body called resolvins. These counteract the Omega-6 inflammatory processes. When the two omegas are in an equal or nearly equal ratio, they keep things in our bodies running smoothly. But when the ratio is out of whack, then we have health issues. Of course the simplest way to prevent this is to eat more omega-3 and less omega-6.

There is strong scientific evidence that omega-3 fatty acids reduce blood triglyceride level and regular intake reduces the risk of secondary and primary heart attack.

There is preliminary evidence that omega-3 fatty acids supplementation might be helpful in cases of depression and anxiety.

Several studies report possible anti-cancer effects of omega-3 fatty acids, particulary breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Omega-3 reduced prostate tumor growth, slowed histopathological progression, and increased survival.

As you can see, getting a good omega balance is very important.

Here is an excellent natural source for some Omega-3 products:

Janis & Bob
Island Lotions

Vitamix 5200 Blender

2011-01-14T08:23:00.000-08:00

Hi,

Bob and I are focused on giving our bodies all the healthy, natural nutrition we can, while ‘trying’ to stay away from processed foods and additives that may be harmful to us. This is not an easy task as it is not always clear just what to look for in the list of ingredients and some additives are not even listed. If you have been reading any of the natural newsletters regarding the GMO contamination of our food supply, it is cause for concern.

We recently purchased a Vitamix 5200 Blender after watching a demonstration and we are delighted with it! We have had a regular blender for many years that did not get much use, but this can do so much more. The Vitamix has given us an easy way to add many more whole foods and yummy recipes to our diets, while also making meals faster and easier to prepare.

The Vitamix web site is a wealth of information, including a collection of favorite recipes from their employees. One of Janis’ personal favorite recipes is the pumpkin smoothie. It is like drinking pumpkin pie! Another favorite is Green Virgin Pina Coloda. And Bob likes to make his favorite drink using fresh and frozen fruit, giving him lots of antioxidants.

Making your own soup is fast and delicious and contains nutrition you can’t get out of a can. The recipes use whole foods and are all very easy to make. Our next step is to start our own garden, while trying to keep all of the ‘critters’ out of it!

Take a look on our web site and check it out.

Make an investment in your health!
http://www.islandlotions.com/Vitamix 5200.htm

Thanks and be sure to note our Coupon Code 06-005857 for your free shipping.

Janis & Bob

Coconut Oil Skin & Hair Care

2010-09-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome to September, a month when the temperatures start to moderate and some of us will be experiencing the first nips of chillier weather.

I wrote recently how wonderful coconut oil is for our inner health, and now I am going to mention some things that coconut oil is great for when used on the outside of our bodies.

Skin Care: Most of us don’t think much about the hard work our skin does, protecting our internal organs from injuries, infections, viruses, and bacteria. It also protects us against extreme temperatures, controlling heat flow between the body and the environment. Skin produces and stores vitamin D, which we are beginning to see, is vitally important to our health in many ways.

Skin helps to keep our bodies from becoming dehydrated. It detoxifies waste by perspiring. Skin can absorb and excrete nutrients and toxins through its pores. Because your skin absorbs whatever it comes into contact with, it is very important to choose your skin care products wisely. You should not put anything on your skin or your hair that you would not be willing to eat.

One of the top-rated oils for your skin is coconut oil. It protects against damaging free radicals, and is very helpful in protecting the skin from dry or harsh weather.

Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections. Therefore coconut oil forms the basic ingredient of various body care products such as soaps, lotions, creams, etc., used for skin care.

Premature Aging: Coconut oil helps to prevent premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties. Also, unlike many skin care products, coconut oil can actually help repair age-damaged skin. Coconut oil penetrates into the deep layers of your skin to strengthen the tissues.

The people that live in tropical climates have always been known for their youthful appearance and soft, wrinkle-free skin. For them, it is a combination of using the oil on their skin, as well as using coconut oil in cooking. Coconut oil delays wrinkles and sagging of the skin.

Sunscreen: I was born in Hawaii where people have used coconut oil abundantly for many years. One very interesting fact about the natives who live in tropical climates where they are constantly exposed to the rays of the sun year around, is that skin cancer is almost unheard of in these places.

Coconut oil is probably one of the main reasons people in tropical climates do not suffer from skin cancer, even after being exposed to the tropical sun all day. Coconut oil has wonderful antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radical damage. Also, when coconut oil is consumed, as well as used topically on our skin, it helps our bodies absorb other nutrients more effectively as well, such as vitamin E, another powerful antioxidant nutrient that protects the skin.

Many people use coconut oil as a natural sunscreen. Not only is it non-toxic, but it is also safe for the environment, so you can go into the water, and not worry about damaging the ocean’s fragile coral system and sea life. Coconut oil not only helps keep skin moisturized, but it helps promote a lovely, golden tan. Remember though, you have to use common sense and know that if you overdo it in the sun, you can get burned, even with a good sunscreen. But if you do stay in the sun too long, slather on the coconut oil for its great antioxidant, healing properties.

Message Oil: Coconut oil is an excellent massage oil. It acts as an effective moisturizer on all types of skin. The benefit of coconut oil on the skin is comparable to that of mineral oil. Further, unlike mineral oil, there is no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin with the application of coconut oil. Coconut oil therefore is a safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin.

Natural Deodorant: One use of coconut oil I had never heard of before is to use it as an underarm deodorant! Many have theorized that the medium-chain fatty acids (see last month’s blog) in the oil attack the bacteria in sweat that cause the odors. Some people make their own deodorant using coconut oil mixed with baking soda and corn starch. And because coconut oil gets hard at low temperatures, it can even be used as a stick deodorant. I have not tried this yet, but it is on my list of things to do.

Coconut Oil Deodorant
4 – 6 Tbsp. coconut oil
¼ cup cornstarch
1/8 – ¼ cup baking soda

Combine the baking soda and cornstarch. Slowly add coconut oil, working it into the powder mixture until it is the consistency that you want. It should be solid, but easy to apply. You can put it into a small container with a lid and apply it with your fingers or use an old stick deodorant dispenser that you have cleaned out. This amount should last you quite a while.

Recommended: If you have very sensitive skin, use the smaller amount of baking soda.

There are also a few commercial products available that use coconut oil and bee’s wax as their base, if you don’t want to make your own. It is so wonderful to be able to use a natural deodorant without the chemicals, especially aluminum, which we are told may cause or contribute to Alzheimer’s disease.

Hair Care: Coconut oil is one of the best natural oils for hair. Coconut oil is great for reviving and moisturizing dry hair. Regular massage of the head with coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free of dandruff. Coconut oil is extensively used in the Indian sub-continent for hair care. It is an excellent conditioner and helps in the re-growth of damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing damaged hair. It is therefore used as hair care oil, in various conditioners, and dandruff relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically for hair care.

Many studies have been done on how effective various oils are on treating damaged hair. One study in India compared mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil because these were the three most commonly used oils for hair treatment in India. The findings clearly indicated the strong impact that coconut oil application has to hair as compared to applications of both sunflower and mineral oils. Coconut oil was the only oil found to reduce the protein loss for both undamaged and damage hair when used as a pre-wash and post-wash grooming product. Because of its low molecular weight and straight linear chain, coconut oil is able to penetrate inside the hair shaft.

Dandruff/Dry Scalp: Many people use coconut oil for dry scalp. Most dandruff and dry scalp shampoos have chemicals in them. Coconut oil is one of the few natural oils that will not only help moisturize the scalp, but its antibacterial and antioxidant properties help to heal the scalp.

Healing Infections: When applied to infections, coconut oil forms a chemical layer which protects the infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil is most effective on bruises as it speeds up the healing process by repairing damaged tissues.

Coconut oil is also very effective against a variety of other infections due to its antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. According to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes, SARS, etc. It also kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhea. Coconut oil is also effective on fungi and yeast that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, and diaper rash.

Applying Skin Care Products: Always apply skin care products to clean skin. The best time to apply lotions and creams is when you are fresh from the shower. The lotion or cream seals in the moisture, and they are better absorbed when the skin is still warm, and the pores are open. Use short, gentle strokes to avoid stretching your skin.

Acne: Coconut oil’s antibacterial properties help in keeping the skin clear and free of breakouts.

Yeast Infections of the Skin/Diaper Rash: There are many reports of people having wonderful results when using coconut oil on yeast infections. Many people get yeast infections, especially in the summer months, and they can be very difficult to heal. The usual remedy is chemical-laden creams, which are absorbed into the skin. Many people say that using these creams is difficult when the yeast infection is under clothing, because the clothing tends to absorb or rub off the cream. Also, the prescription ointments generally sting when applied, because of the strong chemicals they contain.

How wonderful it is to apply coconut oil to a yeast infection or diaper rash and feel the soothing oil absorb into the skin and start to kill the yeast bacteria and heal the infection.

There have even been reports of success when coconut oil is used on eczema.
Not every skin ailment can be healed by coconut oil, but it often surprises people when they try it, sometimes out of desperation, and the problem goes away.

So many of the problems we experience in America today is due to the chemical-filled products we use on our bodies and hair. Also, the saturated fats, like coconut oil, that were used in past generations, have been substituted by most Americans for unhealthy refined, unsaturated oils. Our forefathers consumed primarily saturated fats, but most people today consume unsaturated fats and fatty acids. I plan to write an article about that in the near future, because it is so important.

Until next time,
Aloha.

Janis
http://www.islandlotions.com

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

2010-08-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

Recently a friend told me about the health benefits of chia seeds. Of course, we have all heard of chia seeds, the seeds that are used to create fuzzy little Chia Pets. My friend was actually talking about the same seeds that are used in Chia Pets, but instead of growing a fuzzy animal with the seeds, she said I should eat them.

Chia is an edible seed that comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in hot, dry places like southern Mexico. In pre-Columbian times, they were a big component of the Aztec and Mayan diets and were the basic survival ration of Aztec warriors. Amounts as small as one tablespoon of chia seeds were believed to sustain an individual for 24 hours. They used chia seeds topically to create a poultice for wounds, and taken internally the oils helped relieve joint pain.

A major food crop of the Aztecs and other Native Americans, chia seeds were an invaluable source of nutrition and energy. Easy to store and transport, these seeds were used on long marches to maintain energy. For everyday use, chia seeds were often roasted, ground into flour for cooking and baking, or made into gruel by mixing with water.

The nut-like flavor of chia seeds is so mild that most people won’t detect its presence in a food or drink. In Central America, they mix seeds in water and add lime or lemon juice and sugar to make a drink known "chia fresca". You can sprinkle ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, in yogurt or salads, put them in a smoothie, eat them as a snack, or grind them and mix them with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.

As with Neem leaves, insects don’t like chia plants, so they don’t need to be sprayed with pesticides.

Chia is very rich in omega-3 fatty acids, even more than flax seeds. A wonderful advantage over flax seed is we are able to digest chia seeds without grinding them first, so the nutrients are readily available to the body. Chia seeds are so rich in antioxidants that the seeds don't deteriorate and can be stored for several years without becoming rancid. Chia seeds also provide fiber as well as protein, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, niacin, and zinc.

Because of its nutritional value and stability, chia is being added to a range of foods. Egg and chicken farmers are adding it to chicken feed to make the eggs and meat rich in omega-3s. Cattle ranchers are using it in cattle feed to enrich cow’s milk with omega-3s. Chia seeds are also being added to commercially prepared infant formulas, baby foods, baked goods, nutrition bars, yogurt, and other foods.

In addition, one of the unique things about chia is its ability to soak up liquids. Mix chia seeds with nine parts liquid let it sit for about 15 minutes and you will get a gel-like mixture. It has little taste, but plenty of nutrients. It is also very filling because of the amount of expansion.

Adding Chia seeds to your meal plan is extra easy if you make the gel up ahead of time. This is especially great for a morning smoothie or protein drink when you are rushing to get to work.

Chia Gel Recipe

Put nine parts of water into a sealable container. Slowly pour one part seed into the water and whisk to avoid any clumping. Wait a few minutes and whisk again. Let Chia Seeds stand for about 10 more minutes, then stir again to break up any last clumps.

Store in your refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Great for digestive health, the chia running through your system acts like a broom, cleaning out your intestines as it goes on its way. This helps clean the body of toxins, as well as foodstuff which may be slow to pass through, like meats and dairy. Even if you eat healthily on a day-to-day basis, there may still be remnants of unhealthy food in your system from past bad food choices.

What makes the Chia Seed the powerhouse food that many claim it to be?
• Very high amounts of Omega 3 oil (30%) and Omega 6 oil (40%). This provides a nice balance of Essential Fatty Acids. The chia seed’s substantially dense percentage in alpha-linolenic fatty acid also makes this seed a healthy dietary source of fatty acids.
• You do not need to grind the chia seed to digest it, the way you have to grind flax seeds.
• Chia seeds are great for athletes because they are highly hydrophilic. That means they absorb large amounts of water -- over 10 times their weight in liquids – helping to keep our bodies hydrated.
• Studies show that eating chia seed slows down how fast our bodies convert carbohydrate calories into simple sugars. This should be helpful news to diabetics.
• When chia gel gets into our digestive system it helps prevent some of the calories that we eat from being absorbed into our system. This blockage of calorie absorption makes the chia seed a great diet helper. Eating the seeds before a meal helps dieters by making them feel fuller faster so they will eat less at that meal.
• Chia seeds provide antioxidant activity
• Chia is a great addition to a detoxification program. Chia seeds are high in fiber and in healthy oils making them an excellent addition to many detox programs.
• Mix Chia seeds into yogurt, sprinkle them on cereal in the morning, add to salads, or even add them to your baking. There are many ways to add chia seeds into your daily routine!
• Unlike most other grains, chia seeds are a complete protein.

Chia seed are high in Omega 3 oil, Omega 6 oil, calcium, potassium, and iron. Three and a half ounces of the seeds have been shown to contain as much omega-3 as twenty-eight ounces of salmon, as much calcium as three cups of milk, and as much iron as five cups of raw spinach. The same three and a half ounces of chia seeds also contain as much potassium as one and a half bananas, the same amount of vegetable protein as a cup and a half of kidney beans, and as much vitamin C as seven oranges. Chia contains antioxidants at levels nearly three times the antioxidant strength of blueberries, and it contains boron, which is a trace mineral that enhances the absorption of calcium into the bones.

Chia seeds have shown some promising results for people with type two diabetes. Since they contain a generous amount of soluble fiber, chia seeds slow the absorption of sugars and starches into the system, keeping blood glucose levels more stable. The natural anti-inflammatory and blood thinning properties of chia seeds are extremely beneficial to diabetics also, as are the natural support that chia's essential fatty acids lend to blood pressure and cholesterol control.

Chia seeds are beneficial to many dieters as well, their high fiber content make them quite filling. When added as an ingredient in meals, chia seeds add nutritional value and replace higher calorie ingredients. Their mild flavor makes them undetectable in most recipes, giving dieters a convenient method of calorie reduction that does not compromise the flavor of favorite meals. The seeds will absorb liquid in the stomach and expand, making you feel full very quickly.

While the results of using chia seeds will vary from one person to another, their nutritional benefits make them a healthy addition to anyone’s diet. Even if you aren't among those who see significant decreases in blood pressure or glucose levels, chia seeds will increase your intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

Since it is so hard to eat a healthy, balanced diet, especially while cutting calories, I decided chia seeds were worth a try just for nutritional support alone. They are a quick and easy way to promote good health and avoid vitamin deficiencies.

Here is a pudding recipe using chia seed gel that is really yummy. It is dairy free and uses coconut milk, another great addition for your health. You can add or substitute other things, based on your own preferences and/or food allergies. You can add a banana or two, nutmeg instead of cinnamon -- or both! I like the creaminess of coconut milk, but you can use almond milk (chocolate almond milk - yum), cream, low-fat milk, or water. If it is too sweet for you or you prefer a no-sugar recipe, use good quality unsweetened dark chocolate, dark unsweetened cocoa powder, and a sweetener of your choice, like stevia, honey, agave, or pure maple syrup. For a different flavor, use almond extract instead of vanilla. I even like to put in a little espresso powder sometimes for a mocha flavor. The recipe is extremely versatile, as you can see.

Chia Gel Chocolate Pudding
Ingredients
1/4 c. coconut milk
1/2 c. chia gel (1 part chia to 4 parts water)
1/4 c. almond flour
1 c. semi-sweet dark chocolate chips
1 t. vanilla extract
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/4 t. sea salt
Directions
Put everything except the chia gel into a blender and blend until smooth. Add the chia gel and blend until the pudding is a smooth, thick consistency. The gel blends beautifully into the pudding, so you won’t even know it’s in there.

Janis
www.islandlotions.com

Coconut Oil and the Saturated Fat Myths

2010-07-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

At Island Lotions, we only sell products we use ourselves and believe enhance our health and well being. With that in mind, we have recently added coconut oil products. I am particularly excited about our new coconut line, because I believe they are so good for the body, both inside and out.

One great way to add coconut oil to your life is to use it in your cooking. I think you will come to see, as we did, how much coconut oil can help improve your body and compliment a healthy lifestyle. First though, we have to debunk some old theories that were pushed upon us by well-meaning individuals. This has to do with the high saturated fat content of coconut products and how it affects our bodies.

Until very recently tropical oils, including coconut oil, were given a very bad rap. We were told, because of their high saturated fat content, they were bad for us. So I shunned these oils, instead using polyunsaturated vegetable oils. Thankfully these statements have recently been shown to be far from the truth, and I can once again enjoy using healthy, natural tropical oils, like coconut oil.

When I first read the startling news that tropical oils were good for our bodies, I was cautiously optimistic. I promptly did a lot of research on the subject, reading many different articles, studies, and viewpoints, so I could get a well-rounded education on this. If I was going to start using coconut oil, I wanted to be sure I was doing the right thing. I have a responsibility, not only to myself and my family, but to everyone that would be eating our food.

We have been trying to eat a low-fat diet at our house, and I still recommend that, but now I find that the polyunsaturated oils we were using may actually cause the very problems we are trying to avoid. Eating the right kind of fat in moderation should improve and enhance our health, not tear it down and destroy it.

Most everyone knows trans-fats are unhealthy and to be avoided. To avoid eating trans fats, many of us have been using polyunsaturated oils. But now there are many new studies showing that these oils, when heated, degrade to toxic compounds and trans fats. Oils processed in large factories are obtained by crushing the oil-bearing nuts and seeds and heating them to 230 degrees. The oil is then squeezed out at pressures from 10 to 20 tons per inch, thereby generating more heat. To extract the last 10% or so of the oil from crushed seeds and nuts, processors treat the pulp with one of a number of solvents. The solvent is then boiled off, although some may remain in the oil. Such toxic solvents also retain the toxic pesticides adhering to seeds and grains before processing begins.

High-temperature processing causes the weak carbon bonds of unsaturated fatty acids to break apart, thereby creating dangerous free radicals. In addition, antioxidants, such as fat-soluble vitamin E, which protect the body from the ravages of free radicals, are neutralized or destroyed by high temperatures.

There is a safe technique that extracts the oils under low temperatures. These expeller-expressed, unrefined oils will remain fresh and keep its precious store of antioxidants for many years. Coconut oil is one of the few oils that are processed in this fashion. Also coconuts are not exposed to toxic pesticides in their growing process.

Trans fats are the main artery-clogging, highly damaged omega-6 polyunsaturated fats that are formed when vegetable oils are hardened into margarine or shortening. Trans fats are found in most processed and fried foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, chips, doughnuts, cookies, pastries, and crackers.

Trans fats, as opposed to saturated fats, have been linked repeatedly to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and many other health issues. Trans fats increase LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, and decrease HDL, or “good” cholesterol (yes, cholesterol can be considered good, depending on certain factors).

Prolonged consumption of trans fat-laden oxidized oils can lead to atherosclerosis, inflammatory joint disease, various cancers, damage to the liver and lungs, and immune system dysfunction. I have read, in many studies, that these oils should never be consumed after they have been heated, as in cooking, frying, or baking. The reason for this is these oils become oxidized or rancid when subjected to heat, oxygen, and moisture as in cooking and processing. They have been characterized as “marauders” because they attack cell membranes and cause damage to DNA strands, triggering mutations in tissue, blood vessels, and skin. Many of you will recognize the term “free radicals”, and that is what you have when you ingest these oils when they are used for cooking and baking or in processed foods. Free radical damage to the skin causes wrinkles and premature aging, and free radical damage to the tissues and organs sets the stage for tumors. Free radical damage in the blood vessels initiates buildup of plaque. These studies show repeatedly that there is a high correlation between cancer and heart disease with the consumption of polyunsaturates. The newest evidence links exposure to free radicals with autoimmune disease such as arthritis and Parkinson’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease, Alzheimer’s and cataracts.

The problems with polyunsaturates are made even worse by the fact that most polyunsaturates in commercial vegetable oil are in the form of omega-6 linoleic acid, with very little of vital omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (like that in fish oil). Recent research has shown that too much omega-6 in the diet creates an imbalance that can interfere with production of important prostaglandins. This disruption can result in increased tendency to form blood clots, help cause inflammation and high blood pressure, as well as some cancers and induce weight gain.
Modern practices in growing and producing these oils have reduced the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in commercially available vegetables, eggs, fish, and meat. A good example of this: Organic eggs from hens allowed to feed on insects and green plants can contain omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the beneficial ratio of about one-to-one, but commercial grocery store eggs can contain as much as nineteen times more omega-6 than omega-3.

Now we turn to the much-maligned saturated fats, which are the ones most of us have been avoiding. You will quickly see these oils are not the major cause of our modern diseases. In fact, they play an extremely important part in the body chemistry.

•Saturated fatty acids make up at least 50% of the cell membranes, so they are required by our cells for their integrity.
•They enhance the immune system.
•For calcium to be effectively incorporated into our skeletal structure, at least 50% of the dietary fats should be saturated.
•Saturated stearic acid and palmitic acid are the preferred foods for the heart. The fat around the heart muscle is highly saturated. The heart calls on this reserve of fat in times of stress.
•Saturated fats have important antimicrobial properties, so they protect us against harmful microorganisms in the digestive tract.
•Our bodies need them for the proper utilization of essential fatty acids.
•Saturated fats help keep us full longer, keeping hunger at bay.
•They are the preferred fuel for your heart during energy expenditure and workouts.
•Saturated fats act as carriers for vitamins A, D, E, and K.
•They are necessary for mineral absorption and a host of other biological processes.

Saturated fats are more stable at high temperatures and so are resistant to oxidation in cooking. So these oils are better choices to use in cooking and baking.

Here are some more things to watch out for when purchasing commercial food products. Some foods traditionally high in saturated fat, like ice cream, cheese and butter, are now available made from polyunsaturated vegetable oils. I used to believe choosing the polyunsaturated options were better for me, but now I choose to enjoy a small quantity of the saturated fat, and I might add tastier versions.
Many food processed foods that have reduced amounts of saturated fats “for our good” have much more sugar and salt to compensate for the lack of flavor in those foods.

Again, I think it is better to have a little saturated fat, which our bodies need in appropriate portions, rather than eat a load of sugar, which is truly bad for our bodies, and salt, which causes high blood pressure in many individuals.
Most dairy and beef cattle are being fed polyunsaturated fat-containing foods, like corn, that are protected from digestive breakdown so the dairy and beef products from these cattle are more polyunsaturated. Some egg products have had the yolk, rich in cholesterol, removed and replaced with a polyunsaturated oil substitute. Chickens are also mostly fed corn now, thereby reducing the amount of healthy saturated fat in the egg yolk. This makes these products much less healthy, but a lot cheaper to produce. It is hard to find healthy meat, poultry, milk, and eggs, and it is all more expensive.

Our bodies need a certain amount of fat to function, like a well-oiled machine (sorry about the pun). The AHA now says about 30% of our calorie intake should be fat (about 600 calories, or 60 – 65 grams of fat, for a person eating 2000 calories a day), but we need to be careful about what kind of fat we chose for those calories.

There is much more information and many studies available about this subject, as well as books that have been written about this, if you want to look at this subject more in depth. It is also interesting to research the diets and superb health of cultures in tropical climates that used tropical oils and fish oils for all their needs until they adopted a more western diet, when their health took a definite turn for the worse. Also look at the very wholesome and much touted Mediterranean diet, which promotes eating whole, unprocessed, natural food.

Please remember that I am not an expert, just a lay person trying to be as healthy as possible. Everyone’s body is different, so each of us needs to do their own research and make decisions about what is right for them.

Please also note if you have an allergy to nuts, you may be allergic to coconuts, so these products would not be wise for you to eat.

In future blogs I will present some of the benefits of using coconut oil on the outside of the body. I also plan to share some coconut oil recipes with you in the near future.

Thanks,
Janis
www.islandlotions.com

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

2010-06-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

When I started to write a short article about the health benefits of coconut oil, I realized there were so many benefits, I would have to write a little at a time. Then I decided a better place to start is to explain a little bit about coconut oil's makeup, then you will begin to see for yourself how wonderful it is for our body.

For many years, coconut oil did not have a very good reputation because coconuts contain 90% saturated fats. Studies came out that showed eating foods with saturated fats increased cholesterol levels in the blood. This is due to long chain fatty acids (LCFA's) that are present in most saturated fats. But don't worry, it sounds a lot worse than it really is, so please keep reading. The saturated fats in coconut oil are actually smaller molecules of fat called medium chain triglycerides (MCFA's). MCFA's are more soluble, so they help boost a person's metabolism. Many people say they actually lose weight when they switch to using coconut oil for their oil of choice in eating and cooking.

The saturated fats in coconut prevent spoilage and rancidity making coconut oil last much longer than other oils. People in tropical areas did not experience heart problems and certain cancers when all they had were organic foods including coconuts, which were a staple in their lands.

But one thing that really changed health practitioners' opinions about the fat in coconut oil was when farmers tried to fatten their cows up with coconut and found they actually lost weight! That made a lot of people sit up and take notice of the much maligned coconut.

It is helpful to know a little about the two basic types of coconut oil. Virgin coconut oil is unrefined or raw coconut oil. It comes from premium grade coconut oil where it is extracted from fresh coconut meat. Virgin coconut oil smells and tastes great and can be an ingredient in fruit shakes and smoothies to add a wonderful flavor to these delightful drinks. It is my personal preference, and the most popular of the two types of oil because it is raw and natural and does not have to go through any processes or heat treatments. You get the most benefits from it because they have not been removed by refinement.

Refined coconut oil is extracted from copra (sun or kiln-dried meat of coconut). The oil goes through a sanitizing process, or refinement, so the coconut oil becomes tasteless, odorless, and colorless. Refined coconut oil has a higher smoking point that virgin coconut oil.

One of my favorite uses of virgin coconut oil is to drizzle a tablespoon or two of coconut oil on air popped popcorn instead of butter for a very healthy snack. I also love to use it in baked goods, to add a delightful coconut flavor to foods.

That is a good introduction to coconut oil. We will discuss more healthful uses of coconut oil next time.

Janis
http://www.islandlotions.com/Organic%20Fiji/organicfiji.htm

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

2010-04-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

We have added a new product line that we are very excited about.
We did our research and selected the product line we consider to be
the highest quality line of organically grown Extra Virgin Coconut
Oil Products made by Organic Fiji.

I have to admit that when I started researching coconut oil I did not
anticipate quite so MANY ways this can be used other than a healthy
cooking alternative! Here are a few suggestions for you to try from
our Suggestions Page.

Skin Care: Since coconut oil is moisturizing, antimicrobial (a
substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms)
antifungal and anti-inflammatory, it's a great natural remedy for a
number of skin problems including acne, eczema and diaper rash!

Coconut Oil is one of the best natural products you can use on your skin to help healing and restoring skin. Also makes an excellent massage oil.

Cuts, Scrapes and Fungal Infections: Coconut oil can be used for
common cuts and scrapes to protect against infection and help the
skin to heal faster. It contains strong antifungal agents and can be
used to treat infections like athlete's foot, ringworm and vaginal
yeast infections. Can be used topically and internally.

Hair Conditioner: Massage a thin layer of coconut oil into your scalp and hair, allow it to soak for several minutes and then shampoo as
usual. (with our TheraNeem Shampoos of course!) The coconut oil will
help soften your hair. Also an effective method to control dandruff.
Suitable for yound children or babies with cradle cap.

If you have not yet tried this fantastic natural product for your
skin care or cooking, give it a try and I am sure you will be as
pleased as we are!

Thank you for your continued loyalty to using our products.

Bob & Janis Beaudette
www.islandlotions.com

Natural Oils and Their Use in Skin Care

2009-07-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Most skin care products contain natural oils taken from nuts, plants and fruits. So why are these oils so great for your skin? Besides being natural, these oils have some valuable properties that are essential to skin care.

Kukui Nut Oil:
The Kukui nut, also known as candle nut or lumbang oil, is expressed from the nut of Hawaii's official state tree. Hawaiians have used this oil for centuries to protect and heal skin exposed to harsh sun, drying winds, and salt water. It is used in many facial products because it is light and moisturizing without being greasy. This oil absorbs well, leaving only a trace of oily feeling on the skin. It is a fairly expensive oil, with a very light, sweet, pleasant aroma.

Kukui Nut Oil may be used on all skin types. It is considered to be particularly beneficial for dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn, acne, and the dryness caused by radiation therapy. This oil does not cure these skin problems, but it provides effective treatment of the symptoms. Kukui Nut Oil softens the scales and provides lipids that are quickly absorbed by the skin. This slows the water lost through the skin, and helps keep the skin moisturized.

The Kukui nut oil contains very high levels of the essential fatty acids linoleic and alpha-linolenic. This oil is a transparent, low-viscosity oil that is quickly absorbed in to the skin layers. Kukui Nut Oil contains vitamins A, C, and E -- all anti-oxidants that help protect and heal skin tissue. This oil is used a great deal in high-quality soaps because it adds richness and moisturizing properties to bar soaps and bath gels alike.

Kukui Nut Oil creates a protective shield without clogging pores, while locking in moisture.This unique oil, cold pressed from the nut of the Kukui tree, penetrates even the driest skin creating a protective shield without clogging pores. It locks in moisture to improve skin texture while allowing dry or damaged skin to heal naturally. The pure oil is very effective in providing relief for the dry skin and itching of eczema and psoriasis.

The Kukui Moisturizing Cream also makes an ideal nighttime moisturizer as well as makeup remover. It is especially important to protect and nurture the delicate skin around the eyes and mouth, helping to prevent wrinkles by sealing in moisture. Because of the emollient properties of kukui nut oil, the lotion and cream rolls over your skin like silk!

Kukui creates a protective shield without clogging pores.
Extremely effective in treating the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis.
Penetrates even the driest skin.
Allows dry or damaged skin to heal naturally.
Great for makeup removal.
Soothes skin after shaving.
Helps prevent wrinkles caused from dry skin.

Pure and natural Kukui Nut Oil is safe for use on all skin types and may be used on children and infants. Kukui lotion is safe to use during pregnancy. The old Hawaiians used kuku all the time and would rub the newborn with it and it's great for stretch marks!

Note: Information provided in this article is solely to provide education and is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have a medical condition, please consult a health care professional.

If you have any questions please email me at admin@islandlotions.com

Thanks!

Bob
http://www.islandlotions.com

Discover the Power of Organic Neem Products

2008-02-15T12:35:00.000-08:00

This is my first attempt at "blogging" so please excuse this first attempt. I welcome your comments and questions and hope that our customers will use this to share your experience with our products.

Thanks!

Bob

We carry two organic product lines that are excellent for moisturizing and healing, and each brand has its own unique qualities, feel, and level of absorption. To help you make a decision about which lotion is best for you, your skin type, or skin problem, we have written the following descriptions to assist you in your selection.

Neem Oil Lotion is in a class by itself and is very different from the Hawaiian lotions that we sell, so I will start with a brief description of this excellent natural healing product. Neem Oil Lotion has unique organic qualities, is antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal to name a few of the therapeutic qualities, which makes it an ideal lotion for many skin ailments such as eczema and psoriasis. Neem Oil Lotion moisturizes and protects the skin while helping to heal cuts, burns, and abrasions. Neem Lotion absorbs into the skin very quickly to sooth itchy, sensitive dry skin conditions, acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Neem is a bitter in Ayurvedic teachings, it's fragrance is like a nutty/garlic odor. Don't let that stop you from using this excellent natural product. We have two choices for you to choose from, our 'TheraNeem' product line from Organix South has the highest concentration of neem and will have that natural fragrance, but it absorbs quickly and the fragrance is temporary. This is the product line we suggest you use if you have a more serious skin condition.

Our other Neem product line is from Neem Tree Farms and does not have that strong natural fragrance. This is suggested for daily use to gain the benefits of neem and is an excellent moisturizer for your skin.

For more information on usage please go to; http://www.islandlotions.com/introduction_to_neem.htm

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I will cover the Hawaiian Kukui in the next blog.

Thanks again, let me hear from you!

Bob
Island Lotions Neem Store