Healthy Oils to Cook with?

I’ve been using organic, virgin, coconut oil for a few years now and love it for frying, sautéing, baking etc. It can withstand a higher heat and not oxidize. I also love coconut oil as a butter; I add it to my smoothie and also apply it to my skin as a moisturizer......also great for dry hair. Years ago I used olive oil in cooking but olive oil does not withstand high heats before breaking down into bad radicals. Yet olive oil is great for our hearts when it is not heated. Avoid vegetable oils such as corn and canola or cottonseed oils. They are not healthy oils and more than likely are genetically modified (GMO) I came across this great article “What's The Best Oil To Cook With?” It has a lot of simple yet informative easy facts. Check it out at http://www.foodmatters.tv/articles-1/whats-the-best-oil-to-cook-with . Healthy fats are essential for our good health.

The wonders of Oil of Oregano

Oil of Oregano is a potent herb loaded with medicinal properties. It is widely known for preventing or healing colds and flus; it acts to loosen and calm coughs as well as combats the germ that caused the sickness. Viruses, bacteria , fungi, parasites and protozoa are destroyed by Oil of Oregano. In addition this herb has the many other health benefits such as being anti-imflammatory, pain-killing, anti-oxidant etc. From respiratory infections to wounds to lice to arthritis, oil or oregano comes to the rescue, and it works as a preventative also….even aids in pet care. “Your Guide to Oil of Oregano” written by Tracey Gibbs, in simple terms the book educates us in the benefits and application of this potent herb. Additional info on www.joyofthemountains.com.

What are Parabens?

There has been a lot of talk about parabens! They are chemicals that are used as preservatives which prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus. They can be found in cosmetics, shampoo, conditioners, lotions, cleaners, toothpastes etc and even in food. They are efficient, cheap and increase the shelf life of products. Sounds good! But unfortunately they can be easily absorbed through the skin, circulatory and digestive systems where they mimic estrogen. They act to disrupt our hormonal balance and have been associated with not only endocrine disruption but cancer as well. Check out your everyday personal care products to see if they have been laced with Methylpararben Propylparaben Ethylparaben Butylparaben Benzylparaben Next time you are shopping for products, check the labels and try to avoid parabens.

What's in Your Saltshaker?

Regular white table salt is usually 97.5% sodium chloride and 2.5% chemical additives such as anti-caking compounds, dextrose, moisture absorbents and iodine. This salt is dried at extremely high temperatures. Using Himalayan Salt or Sea Salt is a better option. I tend to use Himalayan Salt over Sea Salt because the ocean source of sea salts could be polluted with toxins from oil spills, refineries etc. Himalayan rock salt is pure, not heated or refined and is 85% sodium chloride. The remaining 15% is composed of trace elements/minerals; it contains all 84 elements found in the human body and is healthy for us to ingest. It greatly improves the taste of food naturally. Note that iodine is low in this type of salt and must be obtained from other food sources. Himalayan Salt also comes in form of bath salts….great for soaking in, drawing out toxins and relaxing in. Himalayan Rock Salt lamps when emitting negative ions have the ability to cleanse air and have a positive effect on our mental state. Himalayan Rock Salt is a great alternative to replace your conventional white salt.

Bug Season

It is wonderful to be outdoors except when the mosquitos, black flies, deerflies, no-seeums etc. strike! Deet products without a doubt work well against these flying critters but they also work against our bodies. Deet is a very toxic chemical and it is best to be avoided at all costs. (At worst spray them on your hats, shoes and clothing taking care not to inhale the vapours) For direct application to skin, make use of cleaner sprays. Using and reapplying natural sprays for the outdoors made from essential oils and neem oil is a lot healthier approach. Here are a couple of recipes for outdoor sprays: ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 2-3 tablespoons organic vanilla (stuff you bake with) 15 drops of lavender essential oil 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil or Into a spray bottle pour witch hazel and add the following essential oils: Citronella Oil (must) 15 drops Lemongrass Oil (must) 15 Optionally you can add a few drops of the following: Lavender, Tea Tree, Peppermint, Cedarwood, Geranium essential oils. Have a safe and fun summer outdoors! Pop into The Ninety Ninth Monkey for more info.

Unusual Alternative Remedies for Pain…..Jewellery

From joint pain, arthritis to baby teething pains, we are always searching for a means to alleviate our hurts without horrible side effects. Two of these natural pain remedies are baltic amber and hazel wood that through centuries have been acknowledged as having healing properties. Even from ancient times, going back to the times of Hippocrates (460-377 BC) Baltic amber was recognised as having medicinal properties. It is a fossilized tree resin that contains Succinic Acid which is believed to be a natural analgesic and healing agent. As the amber is warmed against the skin the succinic acid is absorbed through the skin. Amber bracelets and necklaces are made for babies(teething pain) and adults(arthritic pains). Some even believe that the succinic acid improves balance and energy flow. Hazel wood is also a popular alternative to aid in teething pains, diaper rashes and eczemas. The Hazel wood trees are indigenous in regions of Quebec where the First Nations people discovered the healing properties of the hazel wood itself. (Aborigines of Australia also use Hazel wood therapeutically.) Hazel wood works by creating an alkaline environment in your body; because the wood is alkaline it absorbs the acidity in your body as it lies against the skin….. Being too acidic causes health problems. Therefore sometimes simple solutions like wearing jewellery made from amber and/or hazel wood can be helpful in some everyday ailments. These necklaces, bracelets, anklets etc are not only attractive but offer healing benefits. The Ninety Ninth Monkey offers both amber and hazel wood jewellery.

What's Lurking in Your Toothpaste?

It is a good idea to check out the ingredients in your toothpaste and even more so if you have young children in your family that may be swallowing as they brush. Many brands of toothpaste contain toxic ingredients when ingested or absorbed. Although many dentists insist that sodium fluoride is necessary to help prevent cavities, fluoride is a known neurotoxin, endocrine disruptor, developmental toxin and a carcinogen. Even the FDA considers fluoride “an unapproved drug”. Too much fluoride can cause discoloration of the tooth enamel or fluorosis. If a child swallowed a tube of fluoridated toothpaste it could be extremely toxic and dangerous. Perhaps safer methods to promote dental health can be used rather than the toxin, fluoride. Other ingredients to avoid are: sodium lauryl sulphate, a strong degreasing agent, triclosan, although very antibacterial it is also a dangerous pesticide, harming our health and environment, parabens which are used as preservatives but are also hormone disruptors, propylene glycol which helps keep the paste moist but is an irritant, FD & C Blue Dye #1, #2 etc, artificial colourings easily absorbed and known to cause allergic reactions and even cancer. Like the food you eat, you should also check out what is in your toothpaste. Artificial sweeteners should also be avoided. Take a few minutes and look at your toothpaste’s ingredients the next time you brush your teeth! Be informed. The Ninety Ninth Monkey promotes cleaner options in toothpastes.

Life with Fabric Softeners

Our modern living has created these so called “convenient” products and marketing has been extremely successful in convincing us that we need them desperately. One such item is fabric softeners with their concoction of chemicals….from benzyl/ethyl acetate, chloroform, ethanol, pentane, a-terpineol, and on and on. Many of the chemicals found are neurotoxins, carcinogens and can make you nauseous, headachy and drowsy or develop a rash. They usually smell “nice” and we do not realize that these artificial fragrances also are extremely unhealthy; the “nice” smell is also necessary in these softeners in order to cover up the heavy smell of the chemicals used. Fabric softeners also can decrease the absorbency of cloth diapers. They are definitely not good for pet blankets. These chemicals adhere to the laundry and are against your skin ready for absorption for as long as you have those clothes on and as well you can inhale the chemicals for the duration of the day. ! Dryer sheets when heated become volatile and now you breathe the toxins from the dryer; much is vented out into the world for everyone to react to. If you must have softness in your laundry you can add baking soda or vinegar to the wash cycle, use dryer balls (like felted wool), or purchase a more natural fabric softener without the long list of toxic chemicals. The sun is the best way to dry laundry. It does make the fabric rougher and not as soft. But this makes it perfect for towels as now you have a natural way to brush/stimulate your skin, exfoliate, save money, naturally sanitize, improve your health and respect the environment.

Wonders of Essential Oils

Essential Oils are often used in natural medicine, as a holistic approach to health; simply because we love their aroma, it makes us feel good. Essential oils are volatile plant liquids extracted through distillation or extraction process. They are extremely concentrated and should not be used directly on the skin unless they are diluted with carrier oils, such as sweet almond, olive, jojoba etc. The benefits of aromatherapy can be by means of inhalation or topical application. For inhalation, diffusers can be used or simply a few drops on a handkerchief; the scent affects the brain’s emotional control center. Topically essential oils can be absorbed into the bloodstream through massages, baths and moisturizers. Some beneficial effects of essential oils range from relief from stress, headaches, insomnia, an increase in immune system function and mood enhancement. Essential oils allow natural fragrance to be present in personal care products without using artificial parfums. Some examples of their uses specifically are: Eucalyptus can be used in steam inhalation and chest rubs to relieve cold/flu symptoms . Lavender is calming, balances emotions and helps with insomnia. Tea tree has antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericide and fungicide properties; it is often used for toe fungus infections and lice treatment. Oil of oregano, because it is a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, & antiparasitic oil, it is often ingested for colds and sore throats and as a preventative. However ingestion of essential oils should be done with caution and/or under medical supervision. If you are pregnant also consult your doctor before using essential oils. The Ninety Ninth Monkey carries various essential oils. They are also found in many natural personal care products.

Water and Modern Society

Water is an essential element of staying alive but also to remain at ultimate health, it is necessary to hydrate ourselves adequately. “Water makes up greater than 2/3 of the weight of the human body; the brain is 75% water, blood is 83% water, bones are 22% water, muscles are 75% water, and the lungs are 90% water.” Ideally drinking ½ to 2/3 of an ounce of water per pound of body weight is a good rule of thumb depending on how active you are, whether you are breastfeeding, drinking alcoholic beverages or if you are overweight. Society recently has recognized this need by creating the sale of plastic-bottled water which is readily available. To take this a step further we can purchase a re-usable glass or food- grade stainless steel water bottle that we can refill and take with us. We can personalize this bottle and it can become part of our lifestyle and at the same time reduce the amount of petroleum plastics that are created and never reach the recycling bin. The leaching of BPA, an hormone disrupter in the form of synthetic estrogens, is avoided when we do not use plastic water bottles. Furthermore it is important to keep this fact in mine: “Americans drink more bottled water than any other nation, purchasing an impressive 29 billion bottles every year. Making all the plastic for those bottles uses 17 million barrels of crude oil annually. That is equivalent to the fuel needed to keep 1 million vehicles on the road for 12 months.” As we take care of our health, we must also be conscious of what effects we are creating on our environment. The Ninety Ninth Monkey supports Reusability, not only for water bottles but travel mugs for coffee, tea and reusable lunch containers.

Choices and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

We should be able to make informed choices in the foods we eat. GMO or Genetically Modified Organism are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques; food often has DNA inserted from a different species. The purpose of GMO foods is to enhance growth, nutrition value, colour & enhance flavour or to make crops more resistant to diseases/insects/herbicides. For example a bacterial gene has been inserted into corn making the plant resistant to the corn rootworm (Bt corn). Monsanto, an agricultural biotechnical company is responsible for producing Roundup Ready Soybeans and Corn….plants that have been genetically engineered to withstand the spraying of Roundup, a widespread herbicide. Sounds wonderful!!! But GMO food has not been researched and tested thoroughly. Tampering with plant genes has caused weed and insect resistance and soil/water contamination. Under health concerns, there is a big risk of unknown toxins and allergens that can trigger adverse immune responses as well as hormonal disruptions, obesity, birth defects and allergies. In Canada and the US it is not mandatory to label GMO food. Soy, canola, corn and cotton are the most genetically modified plants but tomatoes, papaya, rice, peas can be as well. We as consumers should demand required labelling of GMO’s in our food. Certified Organic cannot contain GMO ingredients. Check and question what you eat! For more info go to www.nongmoproject.org The Ninety Ninth Monkey does not support GMO products.

What is Fair Trade?

From nuts& oils to tea& coffees to hand-made bag/ purses& jewellery, many products are grown and produced in developing countries in Latin America, Africa, Asia, Caribbean, etc. We consume these products and often take for granted the hard labour and struggles that the peoples who produced these products endured. Large corporations enter countries such as Tanzania, Bali or Guatemala where farmers and artisans are approached to trade/produce their crops or hand-made items but unfortunately prices, environmental and safety standards are not reflective of the true value of the goods from these poorer countries. As North Americans we can take a great advantage of obtaining these unique and delicious products at a fraction of what they are really worth. In addition rich companies go into these under-developed countries and not only reap large profits but also introduce chemicals to the farmers/artisans such as herbicides, pesticides, chemicals and unsafe manufacturing methods that not only harm the health of the native people but eventually pollute their pristine waters and soils. Fair Trade Certification is: A minimum price is guaranteed to farmers and workers Funding for community development Sustainable environmental practices Support small farm cooperatives International Labour Organization Standards More direct trade relationships…longer and meaningful Fair Trade helps the people themselves but also helps to ensure the environment of these countries is not being abused by overproduction and pollutants, ensuring a sustainable future. Therefore the next time you sip your morning coffee or sip your afternoon tea and nibble on that chocolate bar…..enquire if their source has been obtained under Fair Trade practices. If it was, you’ve just made life a little sweeter! The Ninety Ninth Monkey supports Fair Trade!

Litterless Lunch solutions at The Ninety Ninth Monkey

As August and September approach, parents are faced with choices for lunch containers, boxes, bags and water bottles. There are many options for containers: one piece containers have numerous individual units and these eliminate all the various individual containers with matching lids that often get lost. Examples of these are the Go Green Lunch Box, Goodbyn, Bynto. There are many choices for individual containers, some of which have dividers, some are thermal, some are leak proof and some are easier to open than others….especially for little hands. They can be made from stainless steel, glass and BPA free plastics such as Kids Konserve, LunchBots, Steeltainer, Sanctus Mundo, Greentainer, Ecolunch Box, Wean Green, Innobaby containers. To replace the plastic baggies there are now many re-usable bags with BPA free linings with Velcro or zipper closures. They can be easily wiped out or quickly washed in the sink with dish soap, rinsed and let dry for the next day. There are many decorative designs that appeal to different ages. Examples are the KeepLeaf, Itzy Rtitzy, and Sling Sisters reusable snack bags. WrapnMat makes a reusable wrap for sandwiches, bagels, snacks, etc that unfolds into a neat mat for the school or work desk. Water bottles come in a million shapes, colours and sizes but take caution if you buy stainless steel that it is of a good food grade from a reliable company or the water may have a metal taste. KLean Kanteen makes good water bottles in various sizes and they also make an excellent thermal one as does Thinksport. Although light weight I would avoid aluminum bottles. Lifefactory makes a conveniently silicone sleeved glass water bottle that adds some protection from breakage but they still better suited for older students. All plastic ones should be definitely BPA free, avoiding #7 plastics. Nutrition for Your Condition makes a unique “brown bag” lunch bag with multi zippered compartments for containers, some insulating. Dabbawalla and Built make colourful lunch bags from neoprene which offers insulation but Moms love them because they are totally washable. Beatrix NY and So Young Mother also make lunch boxes, coolers and back-packs that are lead, PVC, pthalate and BPA free that have exciting, colourful and retro picture fronts. Packit has a unique lunch bag that folds up to put into the freezer and then open up so the frozen gel can act as a cooler for many hours in the lunch bag. Remember, however the most important thing is to pack a nutritious lunch avoiding over-processed foods and sugary snacks. Lots of veggies!!!! From Barb at The Ninety Ninth Monkey, Brooklin’s Green Store www.theninetyninthmonkey.com

Restaurant Left-Overs!!!!

It is so nice to go out for a meal to celebrate or to simply have someone else cook. Often our eyes are bigger than our stomachs or portion sizes are too large and we can’t eat what is on our plates. I don’t believe in wasting food because it is a most important essential. And thus out comes the take-out containers, often made from styrofoam. Labelled an “environmental evil”, styrofoam takes “500 years to dissolve” and has a “low level of recycling patrons”. Other disposable take-out containers can be made from paper or clear plastics but they also create a negative environmental impact. These take-out containers are also a cost to the restaurant industry which is factored into their prices. It is a lot better and not so difficult to take your own re-usable container that you can load up the food and bring it home. Tuck into your purse, in a small bag or simply carry in your hand when going out to a restaurant. Various re-usable leak-proof containers made out of stainless steel, BPA-free plastic or glass are available. At first you may feel silly but if we all did use our own reusable containers at restaurants, we would create a positive environmental impact…..it is a good feeling! LunchBots, Steeltainer, KidsKonserve and Sanctus Mundo make some convenient take out reusable containers. (Available at The Ninety Ninth Monkey)

The Ninety Ninth Monkey Recommends Safe Summer Fun!

When it comes to enjoying sunshine and the outdoors in nature, we must realize that at times we need some protection from sunburns and pesty biting insects. As consumers we are bombarded with an array of various products in sunscreens and bug repellents. Unfortunately many contain toxic and carcinogenic chemicals such as deet (N,N-diethyl-m toluamide, and N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) in bug repellents and Avo/oxybenzones, Paba, Padimate O, Octocrylene(to name a few) in sunscreens. Yes they go on nicely and work well but at a cost of absorbing truly unhealthy toxic chemicals. But there are other options such as bug repellents made from essential plant oils(citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, eucalyptus, catnip, cedarwood, neem etc.) Sunscreens with the active ingredient, zinc oxide with moisturizing natural plant oils are safer and cleaner. And then there are many broad brimmed hats that work simply and efficiently in the sun. Remember that our skin is our largest organ and that toxins can be easily absorbed through our skin directly into our bloodstream without the first aid of our liver to detoxify. Also be extremely cautious with young children as their immune systems are still developing and the load of unnecessary chemicals can have many adverse affects on their well being. Remember that the sunshine also provides the most natural source of Vitamin D. Barb at The Ninety Ninth Monkey says to enjoy your summer and nature and with these tips you can do it in a healthier way. The Ninety Ninth Monkey offers the following brands: Badger, Green Beaver, Thinkbaby/Livestrong, Original Sprout. 51 Baldwin Street, unit #1, Brooklin 905-620-0399 www.theninetyninthmonkey.com

If Mother Nature Wore Clothes.......

We at The Ninety Ninth Monkey believe that the best way to dry clothes is on a line outdoors in the sun. However our life styles, where we live, and the weather often prohibit people from using the most natural and efficient means. But when we decide to use the dryer, we must realize that dryer sheets with artificial fragrances and fabric softeners contain many carcinogenic and toxic chemicals such as acetaldehyde, benzene and acetone. “‘Fabric softeners contain ammonium compounds which release formaldehyde” and this is one of many chemicals dispersed into the atmosphere from the dryer vent. In order to reduce static, the sheets “work by leaving a residue on fabric that never completely comes out” and this clings against our skin for many hours as we wear our clothes. On a rainy day or when outdoor sunshine drying isn’t an option and you need softeners or anti-cling products, The Ninety Ninth Monkey suggests PVC free dryer balls, reusable dryer sheets and natural fragrances from essential oils. Check out www.nelliesallnatural.com , www.nurturedsewnaturally.com and www.staticeliminator.ca

The Diapering Dilemma!

When a baby arrives, parents must make a decision about their diaperings choices. The market is flooded with numerous brands but the biggest choice is whether to use re-usable diapers(cloth) or disposables. Today's society, filled with busy schedules from work and extra curricular activities to commitments to other children, makes disposables a convenient solution. However disposable diapers add immensely to landfill sites (in Canada, 4 million diapers per day), take hundreds of years to decompose, use toxic chemicals in manufacturing and some babies bottoms develop rashes and sores in reaction to the synthetic absorbancy material. And it is more economical to use cloth diapers; " it will cost you upwards of $1500 to use throwaway diapers" from birth to when the child is toilet trained. Instead for cloth diapering "you could spend as little as $600." And furthermore you are already diaper-equipped for any further babies. I commend all parents who use re-usable diapers. For those who use disposables, perhaps using cloth diapers on the weekends or those days/nights that you are not so busy could be a beginning. For first time parents, time is often required to tranistion into cloth diapers until the baby grows a little and parents grow to be more comfortable with their little bundle. When choosing disposables try to use ones that are chlorine-free, fragrance free and fully biodegradable/compostable. Whichever you chose, always consider your baby's health first. Remember what's healthy for your baby is also healthy for the planet. A few different brands to check out are AppleCheeks at www.applecheeks.com, Bummis at www.bummis.com, gDiapers at gdiapers.com, SoftBums at softbums.com and Funky Fluff at funkyfluff.com. These are available at The Ninety Ninth Monkey.

Are we Denying Info about the dangers in fluoride?

I have always recognized that fluoride is a toxin to our bodies. But this talk by Professor Connett explains and verifies many misconceptions floating out there about the pros and cons of fluoride. The fact that fluoride is absorbed by our bones, thyroid gland and highly absorbed into the pineal gland is scary! The proponents of fluoride do acknowledge that it is beneficial to teeth from the outside, not the inside out. Because young children do swallow toothpaste, I highly recommend the use of fluoride free toothpaste for infants to children. I do not think it is necessary for adults as well. Listen to Professor Paul Connett's talk and make up your own mind.
Copy and paste the below site and get informed.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/01/08/warning-fluoride-in-your-water-will-lower-your-childs-iq.aspx

A Wellness Event - Saturday,November 6, 2010

"Out on a Limb" is a wonderful wellness event in support of Nova's Ark, a registered charity organization that builds beautiful friendships between special needs children, youth volunteers and gentle animals. Located in Brooklin, Nova's Ark hopes to build a year round facility creating a place for these relationships to grow and benefit everyone. On Harvest Fest in Brooklin, Mary Anne came out with her exotic animals and youth volunteers. It was beautiful to see how proud, happy and content the group was. They were beaming with pride!

WHERE SPECIAL IS WELCOME
presents Out on a Limb
Saturday, November 6, 2010
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Go OUT ON A LIMB and try something new. Choose as many as
four experiences from 36 exciting workshops, including Drumming,
Cake Decorating, Jewelry Making, Pilates, Zumba, Healing through Play,
Sushi Making, Yoga, Meditation, Cooking Classes, Creative Writing
and many more.
Take in a lively and informative presentation from a Naturopath,
a Nutritionist, a Gardener, a Personal Organizer or a
Motivational Speaker.
Enjoy a 20-min. session of Reiki, Massage or Refl exology for just $15.00.
Order your delicious organic, brown bag lunch in advance for $8.00
or drop in to our Tea Room for an organic and/or gluten-free scones
with coffee or tea for just $3.00.
STAY ALL DAY! Bid on fantastic items in the Out on a Limb
Silent Auction. Visit our vendors and get your passport stamped for the
chance to win fantastic prizes. Take a meditative journey through the Labyrinth
in the Library. Meet Mary-Ann Nova and her incredible volunteers - human
and animal - and learn more about Nova’s Ark.
Tickets are $50 for two workshops and $25 for each additional session.
Pre-register for the full day (four sessions) by October 11
and get your brown bag lunch free.
For more information and to
register, visit www.novasark.ca
NOVA’S ARK
Building acceptance through understanding to make a
better future for people of all ages and abilities.

Come out and have a wonderful day and support a compassionate organization in its endeavors to keep helping others.

David Suzuki - Global Day of Action

Today October 24th is a day we all should take action to notify our political leaders to be positively active in the UN Climate Summit in Copenhagen this December. Please send your message by going to http://davidsuzuki.kintera.org/climatesummit/ . I became a biological grandmother on the 22nd of October and my wishes for all my grandchildren is that they have a "clean air, water and food" planet to live on. Make your voice be heard on this day of Global Action. For more info about our environment, go to www.davidsuzuki.org.