Well-Being

Well-Being

May 16, 2009 | Culture, Food & Health

chemical-additives-in-foodsThe Association Between Ill-health and Chemical Additives in Foods and Bodycare Products

There is increasing concern about the link between chemical additives found in foods and body-care products, not only in the West but also in non-Western countries. Chemical additives often allow manufacturers to produce cheaper products, some of which, would be unsuitable for sale in the West but which are increasingly finding their way to Africa, South America and the Caribbean. In his book ‘The Chemical Maze’, Bill Statham said “What I discovered during my research amazed and often shocked me. I discovered that a significant number of chemicals added to foods and cosmetics could cause or exacerbate health problems such as asthma, dermatitis, hives, migraines, hay fever, gastric upsets, behaviour problems, hyperactivity, learning difficulties and many others”. (more…)

Food For Thought!

Food For Thought!

May 16, 2009 | Culture, Food & Health

chemical-additives-in-foods2Is Genetically Modified Food Really the Answer to Food Security For All? Recently we have heard a lot about food security particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia. Some western governments (especially USA) and institutions are encouraging African and Asian countries to produce genetically modified (GM) crops for the benefits of increasing crop yield, defeating malnutrition and increasing the income of farmers. Others argue that poor farmers will be forced to buy expensive seeds that they cannot save for subsequent years. There is also the danger of releasing GM seeds into the wider environment, possibly contaminating non-GM crops, having a negative impact on biodiversity, insects and animals. Unlike developing countries, many developing countries do not have regulations and biosafety infrastruture in place to protect human health. (more…)

Health & Fitness Amongst Black People

Health & Fitness Amongst Black People

May 16, 2009 | Culture, Food & Health

fresh-fruit-and-vegetablesIt is unfortunately a fact that the incidence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and stroke* amongst peoples of African descent is statistically significant as a factor affecting longevity in the elderly. There is stark choice that must be made: whether to carry on oblivious to the reality and continue to watch our veterans/survivors in the struggle for equality, justice and universal humanity fall by the wayside out of basic neglect and ignorance for maintaining optimal lifestyle choices; alternatively we can pool the knowledge and information available to better inform and encourage those at risk of precisely what lifestyle choices constitute a high risk status. Our parents and fore-parents as ‘transient residents’ in the Caribbean or associated European colonies worked hard as slaves or indentured labour. As such the daily workload (historically verified) was heavy to say the least. However this mitigated the starchy, carbohydrate calorie laden dietary choices that enabled the conversion of all those carbohydrate calories (whether simple or complex) into available energy to work under pressure. (more…)

Health & Fitness Amongst Black People

Ital Eating

May 16, 2009 | Culture, Food & Health

fresh-fruit-and-vegetables“Organic produce cannot be treated with sewage sludge, bioengineering.” Ital requires us to eat as much fruit and vegetables as possible to maximise the intake of nutrients. It is advisable to eat organic produce where possible as they contain far less pesticide residue than intensively grown produce. Try to eat locally produced fruit and vegetables to maximise nutrients, as nutrients deteriorate over time – such as long distance transportation. Eating at least five cups of produce daily will provide sufficient nutrients and fibre to maintain good health. Always try to eat some raw vegetables and fruit to maximise enzyme intake for a healthy digestive system.]]>