CW Vol 2. Ed. 5 - The Dangers of Sugary (Natural and Artificial) Energy Drinks
Energy Boost or Health Drain?: While energy drinks are a common go-to for a burst of energy, these beverages often contain excessive sugar, artificial ingredients, and high levels of caffeine that can negatively impact your health. Regular consumption has been linked to: weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and energy crashes that leave you feeling more fatigued than before.
Additionally, energy drinks often contain artificial sweeteners and additives such as aspartame, sucralose, and synthetic B vitamins that may contribute to digestive issues, mood swings, and even metabolic disorders. According to Dr. Josh Axe, DNM, DC, CNS, a certified doctor of natural medicine, chiropractor, and clinical nutritionist, consuming these ingredients over time can increase the risk of insulin resistance and negatively impact gut health.
Sugar Overload: What is in Your Drink?: Here’s a breakdown of the sugar content in some of the most popular energy drinks:
Red Bull (8.4 oz can): 27 grams of sugar = 6.75 teaspoons Monster Energy (16 oz can): 54 grams of sugar = 13.5 teaspoons
Rockstar Energy (16 oz can): 63 grams of sugar = 15.75 teaspoons
Celsius Energy (16 oz can): 0 grams of sugar, but it is sweetened with sucralose!
To put this into perspective, the American Heart Association recommends a daily sugar intake of no more than 9 teaspoons for men or 6 teaspoons for women. Just one can of your favorite energy drink can easily exceed this limit. Excess sugar intake has also been linked to inflammation, hormone imbalances, and an increased risk of cancer, as highlighted in Dr. Axe’s research.
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener about 600 times sweeter than sugar. While marketed as a zero-calorie alternative, research suggests that sucralose may contribute to increased blood pressure, elevated glucose levels, and negative effects on gut health, insulin response, and metabolism over time.
For better energy solutions and smart strategies to cut back on energy drinks, click here!
1/29/2025
CW Vol 2. Ed. 4 - Say Goodbye to Red Dye #3 – What You Need to Know About This Colorful Culprit!
Red Dye #3: What You Need to Know: After more than 30 years of being banned in cosmetics (yes, you read that right—three decades!), Red Dye #3 is finally getting the boot from our food supply.
The FDA has given manufacturers up to three years to say goodbye to this controversial colorant. It's about time, right?With growing concerns about its health effects, we can all breathe a little easier knowing that safer food options are on the horizon.
What is Red Dye #3: Red Dye #3, also known as Erythrosine, is a synthetic food coloring used to give a bright pink or red hue to various processed foods and pharmaceuticals. It is derived from petroleum and has been widely used in the food industry for decades. Despite being banned in cosmetics due to health concerns, it has remained in food products—until now.
Where is Red Dye #3 Hiding?: If you've got a sweet tooth, brace yourself—Red Dye #3 has been lurking in some of our favorite treats for years. Some common culprits include:
Candy (yes, think gummy bears, lollipops, and fruit chews)
Baked Goods (those colorful cakes and cupcakes we love)
Snack Foods (fruit snacks and gelatin desserts)
Breakfast Items (hello, sugary cereals and toaster pastries)
Beverages (some sports drinks and flavored beverages)
Oral Medications!
The Not-So-Sweet Side of Red Dye #3: Let’s talk about the real reason we’re saying goodbye—Red Dye #3 has been linked to some pretty serious health concerns, such as:
Cancer Risk: Studies in animals suggest it might contribute to thyroid tumors. Yikes!
Hyperactivity in Kids: If your little ones get extra bouncy after a sugary treat, this dye might be to blame.
Allergic Reactions: It can trigger rashes and sensitivities in some people.
Endocrine Disruption: Long-term exposure could mess with your hormones.
Other Sneaky Food Dyes to Watch For: Red Dye #3 isn't the only bad actor in the lineup. Some other artificial dyes still on the market include:
Red Dye #40: Linked to hyperactivity and allergic reactions.
Yellow Dye #5 (Tartrazine): Known to cause allergic responses and behavioral issues.
Blue Dye #1 & #2: Potential links to cancer (yep, even blue isn't safe!).
Yellow Dye #6: Possible carcinogenic effects and allergy triggers.
Healthier (and Tastier!) Alternatives: Don't worry—ditching artificial dyes doesn’t mean boring food. Try these natural, vibrant alternatives instead:
Fruits and Vegetables: Beets, carrots, and turmeric bring bright, natural color.
Spices: Paprika and saffron for rich, natural hues. Plant-Based Dyes: Spirulina and annatto are great options.
Certified Organic Products: Look for those trustworthy labels that promise no artificial additives.
For a link to this Newsletter and an informative podcast about Red Dye #3, click here!
1/22/2025
CW Vol 2. Ed. 3 - Ditch the Plastic: Why Glass Food Storage is a Healthy Game-Changer
Glass - A Healthier Option: Glass containers are made from non-toxic materials, ensuring your food remains free from harmful chemicals. Unlike some plastics, glass doesn’t leach chemicals into your food when heated. This makes glass a safer option for microwave use or storing acidic foods like tomato sauce. Eliminating chemical exposure in your daily food storage is a simple yet impactful step toward better health.
Superior Food Preservation: Glass containers create a tight seal when paired with high-quality lids, keeping your food fresher for longer. They’re also less likely to retain odors, ensuring your meals always taste their best. Maintaining food quality is key to both health and satisfaction. Bonus: you won’t have to play “guess the leftovers” every time you open the fridge!
The Dangers of Using Plastic: Plastic containers, especially when used to reheat foods, pose significant health risks. Many plastics contain chemicals such as BPA (bisphenol A) and phthalates, which can leach into food when exposed to heat. Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to these chemicals may disrupt hormones, increase the risk of certain cancers, and contribute to other health issues. Even plastics labeled "microwave-safe" can release microplastics and other harmful substances during heating.
Additionally, reheating food in plastic can alter its taste and quality, as the materials can absorb and retain odors and stains. Switching to glass eliminates these risks, providing a safer and more enjoyable way to store and reheat your meals.
For tips on transitioning to glass and to access articles linked to this topic, click here!
1/15/2025
CW Vol 2. Ed. 2 - Teflon Cookware
Non-stick cookware, typically coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon, has been a kitchen staple for decades. While these products offer convenience and ease of cleaning, they come with risks:
Toxic Fumes at High Temperatures: Overheating your non-stick pan can release fumes that may cause flu-like symptoms (called "polymer fume fever”). These fumes can also harm birds, so if you have feathered friends, take extra care—or better yet, swap that pan!
Environmental Concerns: The production of Teflon involves per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are persistent environmental pollutants linked to health risks. Food packaging and firefighter foams also contain PFAS!
Wear and Tear: Scratches or peeling on the non-stick surface might lead to tiny particles ending up in your food. While the long-term effects are still unclear, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Click here to read the health risks of non-stick chemicals and swaps if you are ready to find healthier alternatives!
1/8/2025
CW Vol 2. Ed. 1 - Cleaning Products
Did you know that what’s lurking under your sink might be more harmful than helpful? Traditional cleaning products often come packed with ingredients we can barely pronounce—phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde releasers—that sound more like science experiments than household helpers. While they might scrub a surface, they could also irritate our lungs, disrupt our hormones, or leave a toxic trail behind. These endocrine disruptors can also have a direct effect on respiratory pathways in our noses and cause allergies and asthma. Yikes!
But here’s the good news: cleaning doesn’t have to be the culprit of poor indoor air quality. Karalynne Call, founder of Just Ingredients, emphasizes the importance of choosing non-toxic, natural cleaning alternatives to reduce exposure to these harmful substances.
Click here to read more and learn about swaps for toxic cleaners!
1/1/2025
CW Vol 1. Ed. 9 - Unplug & Reconnect
The holiday season is the perfect excuse to put those screens on snooze and make some real-life magic with family and friends. Click here to see how to ditch the devices and crank up the connection during time with family.
12/25/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 8 - What are Seed Oils?
A recent study from the University of South Florida found that seed oils, introduced in the 1970s and commonly used in processed foods, contribute to the increasing rates of colorectal cancer in younger adults. Researchers found that these oils promote chronic inflammation by disrupting cellular signaling pathways and creating oxidative stress in the body. This combination damages DNA, weakens the immune response, and interferes with the natural repair mechanisms that prevent the formation of tumors.
Seed Oils are vegetable oils extracted from the seeds of various plants. Many seed oils are highly refined. The refining process involves deodorizing, bleaching, and sometimes hydrogenation, which can alter the nutritional profile and introduce trans fats. The extensive processing of many seed oils can strip away nutrients and introduce additives or harmful byproducts.
To learn more about common seed oils that have been identified as potential contributors to chronic inflammation in the body, click here.
12/18/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 7 - Endocrine Disruptors - Scent
Are The Candles And Air Fresheners That Smell So Good Harming Your Health?
Have you ever thought about the products you use to make your home, car, or even yourself smell pleasant? From Bath and Body Works candles to Glade automatic air fresheners, and from car fresheners to perfumes, many of these products contain hidden chemicals that can impact your health. A significant concern is the term "fragrance" on labels — a catch-all term for a mixture of chemicals, many of which are undisclosed to consumers.
What Are Endocrine Disruptors? According to Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, a renowned naturopathic physician, educator, researcher, and author, endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the endocrine (hormonal) system in the body. These disruptors can imitate natural hormones, block their normal function, or alter their production, leading to imbalances that may contribute to various health issues, including reproductive problems, metabolic disorders, neurological effects, and increased cancer risk.
Fragrance chemicals are often linked to these disruptions. Products like scented candles and air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and synthetic chemicals that can accumulate in the body over time. Popular items like car air fresheners and perfumes are common culprits.
To see examples and healthier alternatives, click here!
12/11/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 6 - Read the Ingredients!
Metabolic health refers to the body’s ability to maintain optimal levels of blood sugar, fat and energy. It is vital for reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Insulin Resistance: What Is It and What Role Does It Play? Insulin resistance is a condition in which the cells in your muscles, fat, and liver do not respond effectively to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. This leads to higher blood sugar levels and is a key contributor to poor metabolic health and long-term health challenges.
Click here to find more information about improving your metabolic health!
12/04/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 5 - Cool Whip or Whipped Cream?
Cool Whip, often marketed as a convenient topping, is composed of hydrogenated oils, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial flavors, making it a highly processed product. These ingredients are far from natural and are linked to concerns about long-term health.
In contrast, real whipped cream contains just a few simple recognizable ingredients: heavy cream and optionally, a bit of sugar or vanilla extract for flavor. Not only does it taste richer and more authentic, but it also aligns with a philosophy of eating whole, minimally processed foods.
Click here to learn more from Courtney Swan of the Realfoodology podcast!
11/26/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 4 - What is your Vitamin D Level?
Did you know that vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” plays a critical role in keeping us healthy and energized? Many of us may not get enough of this vital nutrient, especially those living in areas with limited sunlight(us!) or those working indoors. Here is why knowing your Vitamin D level is so important—and how it can make a big difference in your health: click here to learn more!
11/20/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 3 - November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Arsenic, lead, tar—these are just a few of more than 7,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke. Many of these chemicals also are found in consumer products, but these products have warning labels—such as rat poison packaging. While the public is warned about the danger of the poisons in these products, there is no such warning for the toxins in tobacco smoke. Smoking is the number one cause of preventable disease and death worldwide. Click here to more about what is actually in tobacco products and options for stopping use.
11/13/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 2 - Stress Management - The Importance of Physical Movement & Deep Breathing
Virtually any form of exercise, from walking to lifting weights, can act as a stress reliever. Moving your body increases endorphins, which are a type of neurotransmitter, or messenger in your body. They attach to your brain’s reward centers and carry signals across your nervous system. Endorphins can make you feel better and put you in a positive state of mind! Deep breathing and medication can also aid in stress management. Click here to see examples of breathing techniques and useful apps that can help with your stress management journey.
11/06/2024
CW Vol 1. Ed. 1 - Antibacterial Soap
Do you use antibacterial soap? If so, you might want to reconsider! Click here to learn more.
10/30/2024