Finally...Safe (& Green) Cookware!

Are you concerned about non-stick cookware? Maybe some of you are not even aware of the health risks. If you are not aware, non-stick cookware contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a synthetic chemical used in production that creates a soap-like slipperiness and non-stick finish. I have known the risks for years, and switched to stainless steal pans long ago. But I must admit, I hung on to one or two of my non-stick pans for cooking eggs and French toast. I was careful not to heat them past "medium", however not everyone in my house did the same...my hubby does not always pay close attention to those little details.

It just takes one or two times overheating your non-stick pan to burn it, leaving it not so non-stick anymore. More importantly, even on lower heats, these pans are known to "off gas" dangerous chemicals and heavy metals into your food and into the air. I don't know about you, but I don't buy grass-fed beef and organic veggies with the intention of spicing them up with toxins. What's the point of buying healthy food if you aren't preparing it in the healthiest manner possible?

We try to eat a lot of raw,organic foods throughout the day. But when I am cooking, I want to know that I am still doing my very best to keep it healthy and safe for my family. I have been doing some research lately and I discovered a line of cookware that may just be exactly what I have been looking for. I discovered it on Dr. Mercola's website. Not only was I very impressed with the cookware offered, but also with this website. A lot of very valuable information about health was presented, and in a manner that was easy to understand.

Of all the options out there, I am very excited to try Mercola cookware. After hearing the information presented on the site, I think this cookware is a best buy. I was aware of the leaching in non-stick cookware, yet I was not as educated on some of the other options. I was surprised to find that my high-end stainless steel cookware could possibly be leaching a variety of heavy metals. And my tea kettle? Also a high probability that it is leaching!

What is a mom to do? Well...her best, of course. So now that I have found Mercola cookware, I think I just might be making the switch. Check out Dr. Mercola's website for more information.

Here's to your health!

Is There Lead In Your Balsamic?

Have any of you read the fine print on the back of your balsamic vinegar bottle and found this Prop 65 warning: This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

I discovered this warning a couple years back, and have checked labels on my vinegar ever since. I have looked at several brands in big chain stores and health food stores alike. I just could not seem to find a balsamic that does not contain lead.

When researching this a little, I found that some claim that the lead occurs because of the processing of the vinegar and some say that the grapes absorb it from the ground during the aging process. Either way, it seems that we are just supposed to accept the fact that there is lead in our balsamic vinegar. So what about red wine vinegar? I have seen some warnings on them as well. And what about red wine? How are we to trust that there aren't levels of lead found in more aged products? Are they being tested? We worry about lead in our children's toys. Must we now worry that we are tossing lead into our salads as well?

Some of my readers know, and some may not know that I am pregnant with our second child. Exciting! The last thing I want to do is jeopardize the health of this unborn baby. And studies show that there are no safe levels of lead. Even a small amount can cause birth defects and other problems. After searching the Internet for a bit last night, I came across a company that states that it's vinegars are guaranteed to be lead free. I have yet to try this brand, but I am certainly going to. I am always searching for the highest quality, most natural products out there, so I just had to share this with you all as well.

Now, Prop 65 was issued by the state of California, so only brands regulated in that state will have this warning. However, even if your vinegar does not have the warning, it likely contains lead.

Lucini Italia is the brand I just discovered. Go to www.lucini.com and check their store finder to see where you can pick up a bottle of their fine vinegars and other products.

Here's to your health!

Go Flourless!!

Okay, so maybe you have tried sprouted grain bread and you didn't really like it. It may be fine for some people, but you aren't quite ready to make the switch. It's a bit dense, and kind of grainy, you say? Well, compared to the Wonder Bread we were raised on, you're right. But....

I want to try to convince you to try sprouted grain again. Are you willing to give it one more try? The first time I ate sprouted grain bread, I thought it was awful. I didn't eat it again for many years. Now it is the only type of bread I buy. Why? It is highly nutritious, low in digestible carbs, and low-glycemic. AND it tastes great!

Before you decide that sprouted grain bread is not for you, let me tell you that there are many more options out there than you might know about. Ezekiel bread by Food For Life is technically the "original". It is probably the most nutritious as well. But it is not the only brand available. Many other companies are offering sprouted grain choices.

I must say this...I think the key to eating sprouted grain bread (with the exception of the tortillas) is browning it, whether in the toaster, toaster oven, or pan. With that, here are my top picks for sprouted grain You will be surprised at just how delicious they are, and who knows? You may be ready to trade that Wonder Bread just yet.

First, you just have to try Ezekiel sprouted grain English muffins. They are 100% flourless, but you would never guess it. I promise you won't be disappointed with these. They toast up very nicely, with little nooks and crannies for your favorite spread to sink in. Crispy on the outside when toasted, yet nice and gooey center...yes, they are 100% flourless! You may also want to try Ezekiel hamburger and hotdog buns.

Another favorite-spouted grain tortillas. Ezekiel tortillas are more dense and grainy. I like to dip them in hummus. They are good, but they fall apart quite easily. My new favorite tortilla is from French Meadow. They are 100% flourless, and again, you would never guess. They are soft and pliable, making them great for quesadillas and wraps.

Try this with a French Meadow tortilla: Heat one up in a saucepan or tear one in half and warm it in the toaster. Melt a pat of butter or a bit of coconut oil over the warm tortilla, add a little agave nectar and cinnamon, then roll it. A bit reminiscent of a churro. Yum!

This last recommendation is for Alvarado Street breads. I have tried many of their varieties and have loved them all. My two favorites are the Essential Flax Seed, and the Sourdough. The Sourdough is fantastic for sandwiches, and it yields a delicious French Toast!

With so many options to choose from, why not try them all and see which you like best? Sprouted grain breads and tortillas are high in fiber and protein, and they are a living food, with the grains coming together to give you optimum nutrition in a bread. Is it time to go flourless?

Here's to sprouted grain and here's to your health!

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Here's to healthy kids!