Vista issue 97 by BEAUDRY STUDIO

CANADA’S FAVOURITE HEALTH MAGAZINE

ISSUE 97 NOV/DEC 2014

SURVIVING

COLD

AMINO ACIDS

AND

FLU SEASON

Organic Planet FEATURE:

WE DAY EMPOWERING A GENERATION

INTERVIEW WITH THE ESTEEMED

DR MICHAEL

COLGAN 75 YEARS YOUNG

Y O U R

C A N A D I A N

H E A L T H

A N D

W E L L N E S S

C O N N E C T I O N

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O LY U P T

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Issue 97 | Nov/Dec 2014

CONTENTS

VISTA

Amino Acids: The Heroes of Recovery By Marva Ward CNP Make the Most of These Powerhouses

12 14

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

Walking the Talk: An Interview with Dr Michael Colgan By Dan Tindsbury

Want More Happy? By Dr Christian Guenette Start With These Top 5 Tips For a Truly Happier Life.

Recipes: Wholesome and Delicious

Something from Nothing… By Dr Cory Holly Bodies need to move – or pay the price!

This issue of

PUBLISHER’S WORD

Trent E. Nellis - Publisher, Vista Magazine

he first time I met the Dr Michael Colgan was back in 1998 at Odyssey Fitness in Victoria. We had just started the magazine and Michael’s 3rd book, Optimum Sports Nitrition: Your Competitive Edge, was becoming a staple in most serious strength training circles. I was intrigued as I watched him train. First of all, here was this 50 something gentleman doing functional, multi-joint exercises nobody had never seen before. Secondly, he performed them with precision and grace as if he were in his physical prime. I look back and remember thinking how great it was that this man, of what I thought of at the time as an advanced age, was on the cutting edge of health and fitness. Little did I know how much more he would contribute to the world’s health and wellness knowledge database over the course of the next 17 years. His research with nutrition and its effect on athletic performance pre-dated most professional sports leagues. Dr Colgan’s focus on anti-aging and prevention of disease through optimal nutrition has helped countless individuals. In 1998, he began work on neurogenesis of the brain in relation to Parkinson’s disease. It is little surprise that he has remained the picture of health and an iconic example of what a life dedicated to nutrition, dietary supplementation and exercise will do for you. He looks very much the same to me now as he did then, as you can see by the cover photo taken around Michael’s 75th birthday. To say he has been an inspiration would be a crude understatement. To say he has been a gift to us all, a fountain of knowledge for the world to benefit from, would be more accurate, yet still less than deserved by a man who has given the world so much. I am proud to have him in VISTA and I hope you can enjoy and appreciate him as much as we do. As we approach our 100th issue, I have been taking stock of where we have come from and how the Canadian natural health industry has evolved. We’ve seen many manufacturers, products and innovations come and go as a result of competition, regulation and economics. We have seen the landscape change as the age of information has opened wide the eyes of consumers. I would like to thank everyone and anyone who has contributed to VISTA over the past 17 years. It is your efforts that have led us here. As we move into 2015, we have opted to extend our reach with a broader scope of content and a more progressive approach. We believe that there are new demographics of consumers in GenXers and Millenials that deserve our attention and they will get it. Look for our new team to implement exciting design changes and innovations in content, presentation and format. Stay tuned for the January/February issue #98 to see what the new VISTA looks like!

M A G A Z I N E

proudly brought to you by:

PUBLISHER:

Trent Nellis

GUEST EDITOR:

Dan Tidsbury

MARKETING DIRECTOR & ASSOCIATE EDITOR:

Shelly Lynn Nellis

ART DIRECTOR:

Michelle Beaudry

COPY EDITOR:

Dan Tidsbury

ADVERTISING SALES:

1-877-905-7771

COVER PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE COLGAN INSTITUTE CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Michael Bloch, Dr Christian Guenette, Dr Cory Holly, Ainslee Nellis, Shelly Lynn Nellis, Michael Roberts, Jolie Root, David Suzuki, Dan Tidsbury, Marva Ward

VISTA Magazine Suite 451, 15216 North Bluff Road White Rock, BC, V4B 0A7 Tel (604) 560-9959 or (877) 905-7771 e-mail vistamag@gmail.com www.vistamagonline.com

vista Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Opinions

expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not neces-

sarily reflect those of the vista Magazine publisher, editors or staff. Readers are encouraged to consult with their health professional before embarking

upon any exercise, medical or nutritional changes. Contents of vista Magazine

are copyright 2013, all rights reserved. vista Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the publisher. To subscribe to vista Magazine and receive delivery to your home or office bimonthly, send $39.95 + $2.00 GST = $41.95 for 1year subscription. Include your address and we’ll ship you our next issue. Single copies are also available for $6.95 + $.35 GST = $7.30.

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Issue 97| Nov/Dec 2014

CONTENTS

VISTA

ORGANIC PLANET

We Day 2014 Young People Take the Lead

The New F Word By David Suzuki with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Communications Specialist Jode Roberts.

Lipsticks Containing Lead By Michael Bloch

Editor Selects

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

Surviving Cold and Flu Season By Jolie Root LPN Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year. Give yourself a fighting chance.

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GUEST EDITOR’S DESK DAN TIDSBURY

orking with a magazine like Vista delivers benefits that I was not entirely expecting when I first got involved. One is regular access to some of the most up-to-date information regarding research and developments in the field of health and wellness. I don’t have to search for it – it comes to me every issue. Even more exciting for me is contact with a wide range of interesting people who stand behind the research and its application. In this issue, for example, I had the opportunity to interview Dr Michael Colgan, a 75-year-old walking billboard for the mindful implementation of the things that science has to tell us about aging – and living – well. Be sure to read his frank input on what science can offer us, as well as why we don’t benefit as we should. In the same vein, Dr Cory Holly challenges the “accepted wisdom” of a culture that is clearly not contributing to vibrant, fulfilled living. His article is sure to provide the raw material for a thought-

ful, restorative walk in the fresh air – something he and Dr Colgan would agree we need much more frequently. Cold and flu season is upon us again, and this issue has helpful suggestions on arming ourselves to thrive, despite the seasonal trends in our schools and workplaces. Learn how to beat stress and connect on a deeper level through the practice of yoga and Pilates. Our Organic Planet section has more to offer on the theme of living sustainably and productively on the planet we share. Of course, no issue of Vista would be complete without some recipes to expand your repertoire of healthful – and tasty – dishes. Rather than pining for the sunshine and summer, join me and the rest of the Vista team in embracing the season, colds and all, with all of its opportunities for conection, joy, and sharing. To borrow a thought from Dr Colgan, health and wellness begin in our brain.

Because everyone should benefit. Visit chfa.ca today to find your local health food retailer.

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

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AMINO ACIDS: THE HEROES OF RECOVERY

mino acids are the building blocks of proteins, hormones, neurotransmitters and antioxidants and they are required for every physiological aspect of life. They are the fundamental components in the structure of every cell in the human body. The therapeutic action of these vital nutrients can be a profoundly effective part of a corrective protocol, yet at times they are overlooked. There are 20 amino acids (AA) that are directly encoded by the universal genetic code. Nine of these AA are referred to as “essential” as they can only be acquired through the diet. The remaining 11 AA are synthesized in the body through the utilization of essential AA, often in the presence of specific circulating vitamins and minerals, and thus they are classified as “non-essential”. Essential AA, obtained through the digestion of dietary proteins, leave the small intestine where they are processed in the liver and then utilized throughout the body; however, the trio of branched chain amino acids (BCAA), leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are the exceptions. BCAA bypass the liver and are processed directly in the muscle, stimulating the growth of muscle tissue. This explains their therapeutic role in a number of “muscle wasting” diseases such as ALS and anorexia and their ability to reduce muscle breakdown in many cancer patients. Supplementation with BCAA has been shown to support individuals suffering from brain deficiencies, advanced liver disease and anorexia, as they prevent faulty message transmission in brain cells. BCAA may reduce the progression to liver cancer in cirrhotic patients and offer effective nutritional support for the elderly, who are often plagued by poor appetite. Taurine and L-arginine are known to support healthy cardiovascular function. Taurine plays a key role in the regulation of the sodium/potassium pump (electrolyte utilization inside and outside of the cells). 3000mg of taurine daily was shown to be effective in controlling the condition of irregular heartbeat – often the result of dysfunctional mineral utilization. L-arginine acts as a natural vasodilator, as it is the key component in the production of nitric oxide. There are also a number of amino acid precursors and derivatives that play an important role in maintaining neurological health. Tryptophan, GABA and 5-HTP help to manage depression and anxiety disorders either by increasing inhibitory neurotransmitter activity (in the case of GABA) or increasing circulating levels of serotonin (in the case of 5-HTP). Amino acid precursors and neurotransmitters have been shown to be effective when included in a supplementation program for ADD and ADHD. With the help of a qualified naturopathic doctor or natural health practitioner, developing a protocol from among the following amino acids has proven to be effective. • L-Tyrosine - A precursor to L-DOPA, which in turn is converted to dopamine and norepinephrine. Minimal amounts per day may support the production of these vi-

tal neurotransmitters said to be deficient in many ADHD sufferers. • Glutamate - The latest research supports the finding that stimulating the excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate, in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, may be the key in controlling some cases of ADHD due to its interaction with dopamine. • GABA – An inhibitory neurotransmitter, it is formed from glutamate, glucose and glutamine. GABA receptors regulate anxiety, excitability, panic and stress. • 5-HTP – Synthesized from the amino acid L-tryptophan, 5-HTP raises serotonin levels. Serotonin is also found in the GI tract which is involved in a host of functions including mood, sleep (as a precursor to melatonin), food cravings and digestion. • SAMe – Made in the body from adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and methionine. It helps support emotional health by acting as a mood stabilizer. SAMe has also been shown to reduce the pain of osteoarthritis, and has been used extensively in Europe to treat cirrhosis of the liver, as it raises glutathione stores, reduces high enzyme counts and ultimately helps to slow down the destructive nature of this disease. • TMG (Trimethylglycine) – addresses the methylation needs of children for detoxification. Methylation is involved in the function of neurotransmitters, in controlling inflammation, in detoxifying the body and in the antioxidant system. Some studies have shown that methylation support is effective for some children with ADHD. Conversion of TMG to a methyl group requires adequate amounts of folate and B12. The last words on the healing properties of amino acids go to Nacetylcysteine (NAC). NAC is a derivative of cysteine and possesses potent antioxidant abilities that are responsible for its diverse regenerative qualities for many disease states. It is a powerful mucolytic agent (loosens phlegm in lungs and bronchial tubes) and is used in the management of conditions such as emphysema, bronchitis, TB and cystic fibrosis, to name a few. As it is the precursor to the liver’s own primary antioxidant and detoxification agent, glutathione, it is commonly used in hospital emergency rooms as an antidote for acetaminophen overdoses. Recently NAC has also been recognized as a successful treatment option in numerous psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bipolar disease due to its antioxidant properties and other very complex mechanisms. Look for the wide array of amino acid supplements available in your local health food store. It is often the best place to find quality products and sound advice from qualified staff members.

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

Marva Ward CNP

www.vistamagonline.com

RECIPES

CRANBERRY GREEN BEANS AND CHICKPEAS SALAD Serving: 8 Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 5 minutes Basil and sesame dressing - 3 garlic cloves - 60 ml (1/4 cup) red wine vinegar - 2 tbsp basil leaves, chopped - Salt - Ground black pepper - 125 ml (1/2 cup) olive oil - 1 tbsp roasted sesame oil

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

Purée garlic cloves in the food processor. Add the four next ingredients and purée again. Slowly pour in oils while mixing. Adjust the seasonings to taste.

SALAD - - - - -

750g (1 2/3 lb) green beans, cut in 3 2 540 ml cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 red onion, cut in two and minced 250 ml (1 cup) grilled red pepper, diced 250 ml (1 cup) whole or sliced Fruit d’Or dried cranberries

Cook beans in boiling water for 5 minutes or until tender crisp. Drain immediately and refresh in cold water. Place in a salad bowl. Add other ingredients and pour on the dressing. Toss to combine.

BRAN MUFFINS WITH OATMEAL AND WHOLE DRIED CRANBERRIES Serving: 12 muffins Preparation: 30 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes - - - - - - - - - - - - -

125 ml (½ cup) softened butter 125 ml (½ cup) maple syrup 2 big eggs 7.5 ml (1 ½ tbsp) vanilla extract 250 ml (1 cup) whole wheat flour 250 ml (1 cup) quick cooking oatmeal 125 ml (½ cup) bran 15 ml (3 tbsp) baking powder 10 ml (2 tbsp) mix of sweet spices (clove, nutmeg, cinnamon) 2,5 ml (½ tbsp) salt 2,5 ml (½ tbsp.) sodium bicarbonate 250 ml (1 cup) whole or sliced Fruit d’Or dried cranberries 160 ml (²⁄³ cup) milk or soy milk

Preheat oven to190 °C (375 °F). In a large bowl, beat butter and maple syrup with an electric mixer. Add eggs and vanilla extract while whisking. Reserve. In another bowl, combine remaining ingredients except milk. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients in two steps alternately with milk. Mix with a spatula just enough to get a smooth paste. Divide the paste evenly in the 12 spaces of a buttered muffin pan. Bake 18-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of a muffin comes out clean. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes before unmolding. Serve immediately or reserve muffins in a large airtight container.

VIRGIN CRANBERRY COSMO Serving: 4 Preparation: 5 minutes - - - - - - -

250 ml (1 cup) pure cranberry juice 60 ml (1/4 cup) orange juice 2 tbsp lime juice 125 ml (1/2 cup) ginger soda Ice cubes Lime wedges Cranberries to decorate (optional)

In a shaker, mix juices and soda. Add ice and mix until chilled. Pour in 4 martini glasses, then garnish with lime wedges and cranberries, if desired.

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COVER STORY

WALKING THE TALK:

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR MICHAEL COLGAN By Dan Tidsbury

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You have been in the health industry for many years and have seen a lot of changes. What have been the drivers of positive change? “There are four. First the massive growth of the certified organic foods industry, from a negligible level in the 1980s to cited at over $20 billion in North America in 2013. “Second, the growth of widespread understanding that the gluten in wheat, rye and barley is a slow poison to people of European descent, and the massive growth of the gluten-free foods industry. It is wonderful to see the steady decline in the wheat and other processed grains industry over the last two decades. “Third, the growing recognition that processed sugar added to foods, especially high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), is a stimulus for ADHD and other autism spectrum disorders, and the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease in later life. Public recognition of these adverse effects on health is reflected in the 12% decline in the soda industry in the last decade, and the reduction in sugar in the top brands of soft drinks. “Fourth, the incredible growth in the gym industry since 2000, especially in resistance exercise, which reflects a large increase in public understanding that maintenance of muscle mass as you age is essential to maintenance of cardiovascular and brain health because the muscular system provides about 50% of the pumping power to maintain oxygen flow to upper parts of the body.”

Are there any common problems with the developments that don’t have lasting positive effects? “The most common problem is that there are billions of dollars invested in obsolete systems of nutrition and exercise, such as casein based protein drinks, and fixed arc, seated, exercise machines. These systems and the profits they bring will not go away. The investors are now in a fight to the death to maintain their incomes, and have invented many bogus stories, employed tame, paid, scientists, paid athletes, even scholarships and research grants, and every other means possible to continue to fool the public.”

length, the control of the gene mTOR, the basic driver of protein deposition and differentiation, and the recognition that circadian rhythms control almost every physiological process in the human body, involving 20% of our total genome every 24 hours.”

Are these good trends? “Advances in science are neither good nor bad. It is the human use of these advances that determines whether or not they are beneficial. We have to remember that all advances in humanity, all our arts and sciences, all our technology, all our laws, all our trains, planes, and automobiles, everything, down to the lenses in our eyes that improve vision and the fillings in our teeth, arose purely from thoughts in the human brain. We created it all from a planet that was just sticks and rocks. Very few people would want a return to the world of even a century or so ago, a world without electricity, without antibiotics, without much provision for the old or the sick. Used properly, all advances in science also advance the character that makes us human – our humanity towards others.”

You have not lent your direct support to many companies or products. What do you look for to determine when your endorsement is appropriate? “I have three main criteria: the people, the products, and the science. To briefly explain: My PEOPLE criterion is best summarized as, I will work only with people that I would also want to spend leisure time with when not working. Life is too short to spend any of it working with unpleasant people, or with those whom you cannot see becoming your friends. I will also work only with people who walk their talk. If those who control a company are not walking advertisements for what they purport to know, they are not capable of advising others. “My PRODUCTS criterion is that they have to be original, designed by an in-house science team. Many companies today produce only “me too” products, which they copy from the real companies, along with copying all the real companies’ marketing materials and strategies. They are easy for an experienced scientist to spot, but generally fool the average consumer. “My SCIENCE criterion is that the company must have an inhouse science team headed by scientists you can look up in the US National Library of Medicine to confirm that they have peer-reviewed papers to their credit in the nutrition field in recognised scientific journals. Without that expertise, the products are generally worthless, based purely on hearsay and the profit motive.”

What trends do you see for the next 5 to 10 years?

What tools can the average person use to “sort the wheat from the chaff” in the health marketplace?

“With the advent of molecular genomics and the characterization of the human genome, the Microproteome Project and the Microbiome Project after the turn of this century, our understanding of human aging and its inhibition took a giant leap forward. There are now a number of integrated research projects involving hundreds of universities worldwide that have uncovered basic cellular processes that control aging. Three prominent factors are the prevention of loss of telomere

“The internet in general is a poor source and the TV and social media totally useless. As linguist Mark Pagel says, “The internet is the perfect tool for teaching humanity infinite stupidity”. “My best tool is PUBMED which, put into your browser, will enter you into the US National Library of Medicine where you can get the real science on any medical, nutrition, exercise, or aging subject – FREE.”

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

t the age of 75, Dr Michael Colgan appears to be doing everything in his power to defy time. Over 50 years of research into the process of aging and the prevention and delay of its unwelcome effects have made him a recognized leader in the field, recognized also for putting what he has learned to practical use in his own life. Dr colgan shares with Vista, form research and a lifetime of experience, some of his insights on aging, health, and living well.

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COVER STORY

What areas of research seem to hold the most promise for the near term? “Understanding the gene mTOR, which is the ultimate controller of the 350,000 different proteins that compose the human body, and of our absolute control by the circadian rhythm, driven by the most ancient signal that first produced living creatures on Earth 400 million years ago - light.”

In your public appearances and in your writing, you convey an impression of vigour and life. What gives you joy? “My greatest joy is the miracle of every new day, a time that has never occurred before, unaffected by all of history, unsullied, pure, and new, just waiting to be made into a masterpiece. By a conscious decision to use every day for personal growth of love and compassion for others, I believe we gradually approach and come to understand and appreciate the greater power that made us.”

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

How do you maintain your vitality and energy?

“Nature made ALL the locks and holds ALL the keys. Only Nature heals, only adherence to the design of our physiology allows us to participate fully. The right nutrition and DAILY exercise are the only real medicines, and the only source of vitality and energy.”

How do you strike a healthy balance between the various aspects of your life? “Tough question. I just got home from weeks on the road lecturing, during which time the food was abysmal despite every effort, the air in some cities was frankly poisonous, the water was unfit to drink, even the so-called “pure” bottled water, and the exercise facilities in

the hotels were almost non-existent. When at home, I eat organic food, wild meats and wild fish, breathe pure air, drink pure water and decent protein drinks, and exercise in my own gym. The system I use myself, and numerous world champion athletes I have used it with, is covered in my books, Nutrition for Champions and The Anti-Inflammatory Athlete at Any Age. The balance for me and the athletes I work with is to spend as little time on the road as possible.”

Is stress a problem for you? How do you manage it? “Stress used to be a problem before I developed the Quiet Mind system to remove stress in champion athletes I have trained. It was so successful, I adopted it myself some 12 years ago. It is set out in my 2013 book, Quiet Mind.”

Canada’s population is aging - both chronologically and in terms of health and wellness. What can the average person do to establish and maintain a vibrant, vital life? “Follow the program in The Anti-Inflammatory Athlete and also exercise with resistance daily to maintain muscle. Remove stress from your life with a program such as Quiet Mind. Like any skill, it takes a couple of years to learn the basics, but it could add 20 healthy years to your life.”

Are there common errors that you see people making? “the biggest mistake is not to spend long enough to enable a good program of nutrition and exercise and stress relief to show. The cells you have now are capable only of action up to the level of the conditions under which they were created. A good example is oxygen uptake. Your present cells can uptake oxygen, the major requirement for production of energy, only up to the level of the oxygen used by exercise

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during the conditions in which the cells grew. No matter how hard you try, they cannot change that level. One turnover of muscle cells takes approximately 200 days, so a minimum program to improve cellular function appreciably is 200 days. “But even that is insufficient if you want to really improve performance. The minimum time for a turnover of brain cells is about 400 days. The brain controls all movement. For any athletic movement, the brain has to move first before the muscle can move. Consequently, brain speed is the determinant of performance speed. Good coaches are well aware that it is seldom the biggest or strongest athlete who prevails. It is almost always the fastest. “Brain speed of athletes has been my focus for 15 years, during which time I have trained two of the world’s fastest athletes, both Olympic champions, and both broke the world hundred meters record while on my programs. They and many other world-class athletes I have done programs for are covered in my book The Anti-Inflammatory Athlete.”

If you could have our readers remember just one thing, what would it be? “Life is made of time. Time is your most precious resource. Do not allow anyone to waste your time. Do not allow anyone to steal your time, because by doing so, they are stealing your life. You have great latent power locked in your brain just waiting for the right information to release it, Seek out the best, and follow only the best. Live every precious moment with great purpose. March with joy to your own drummer. It is the best use of life, the only use that counts.”

What are some myths you would like to dispel about aging? “One big myth is that antioxidants can inhibit aging. See my article on www.facebook.com/michaelcolganspage. “Another big myth is that we cannot do anything to prevent the degeneration of age, so many folks do nothing. On the contrary, prevention is fairly easy. But cure is impossible, because by the time it comes to notice, whole systems of cells have died. Take dementia for example. Every 12 seconds in North America someone slips into dementia, 2,600,000 per year. (And ignorant media spend endless time on a few sensational cases of Ebola!). Dementia is 100% fatal. No one ever returns from dementia. It is totally incurable, because by the time the memory loss and other problems become bad enough to demand treatment, whole sections of the brain have died. That is akin to loss of your legs. There is no way to grow them back.”

”Our growth of understanding of the molecular basis of brain function. In the near future, medicine will gravitate to manipulation of the brain, the master controller in order to cure many diseases, and to extend healthy human life.”

Most disappointing? “The lack of political leadership in science prevented most of the advances in stem cell research and genomics under the NIxon administration for specious reasons, and delayed advances in medicine by 10 years.”

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

What has been the development of the past decade that has been most exciting for you?

WANT MORE

HAPPY?

START WITH THESE TOP 5 TIPS FOR A TRULY HAPPIER LIFE. By Dr. Christian Guenette

hen you think of something you want to do – a goal, a desire or a wish – think about what you hope to gain from achieving it. A sense of accomplishment, perhaps? A windfall of some kind? More money? Fame? Maybe a closer, more sincere connection to your community or the world at large? Whatever that projected end-result, isn’t the common thread an intention of feeling better because you achieved it? After fifteen years studying the meaning and purpose to life, I’ve come to this one simple conclusion: everything we do in this life we do to feel happy – or happy-er than before we did it. As reward-driven creatures, we do what we do because it makes us feel good. Below are my top 5 tips for a better, happier life – backed by the latest research in positive psychology. Try ‘em; you’ll be amazed at how effective these simple techniques are. 1. Appreciation. Lots of people have been jumping on the gratitude train lately – it’s been trending all over Facebook. But better than expressing gratitude is exercising appreciation. In the dictionary, somewhere beside the word appreciation you will find the following simple definition: “to increase in value.” When you focus on your appreciation for something, the inherent value of that thing increases, relative to you. So, if you want the easiest way to feel happy about your life, begin a practice of appreciation for your life, and everything that’s in it. Every single moment spent appreciating your life adds to your happiness. Period. **Exercise: At the end of each and every day, write down the 3 things you appreciated most about that day. Done consistently, in only 5 minutes a day, you will whisk depression away. 2. Believe you can (experience something better). As human beings, one of our greatest advantages over every other species on the planet is a very specific portion our brain – the prefrontal cortex – which allows us to envision ourselves in a future reality. This is the area of our brain used to create optimism for the future. When we see ourselves in a different, happier reality – in our minds, first – we are more likely to realize it. Shawn Achor, Harvard graduate and positive psychologist, suggests that those who utilize this skill have the best chance of not only being happier, but also increasing their likelihood of finding more success in business, relationships, health, etc.

**Exercise: When you wake up, spend the first 2 minutes envisioning your day the way you want to see it. If you can see it (in your mind’s eye), you’re more likely to achieve it! 3. Change the unhappy stories (in your head). I’m sure we all have at least a few disappointing memories – you know the ones – the stories we tell ourselves about things that just shouldn’t have happened. But, if they keep frustrating us or leaving us depressed, why do we keep re-telling them? What if I told you much of what you remember isn’t even true? In Dan Gilbert’s book, Stumbling on Happiness, this author reveals how the brain often fills in the many gaps of our memories with false facts in order to create a believable story! Since we can’t rely upon the brain to tell us the truth about the past, why don’t we spend the majority of our time creating a happy moment today that we’ll want to remember tomorrow?

Daily Natural Tonic Get a jump-start for back-to-school with

**Exercise: Whenever your mind starts to replay an old, unhappy story, ask yourself if you could use the same facts to tell a more neutral or positive story – then, each time you are triggered to remember the old story, replace it with the new one. 4. Take action – using only the resources you currently have. When you wake up in the morning, ask yourself this one question: “What can I do today to make myself happy?” Be sure to include only those things that can be accomplished with resources that are already in your possession. The reason why this question is so powerful is because it is realistic happiness. Too often, we tell ourselves that we would do more things “if only” we had the resources to do so. The truth is, most of us have more than enough resources to be happy. Research shows us that once our basic needs are met, having more (money, resources, etc.) does not significantly increase the amount of joy or happiness we will experience. 5. Invest in self-care. One of my favourite reminders for my clients is: “YOU are the only person you are guaranteed to live with for the rest of your life.” Others will come and go. You won’t. Therefore, make self-care your highest priority. Most of us don’t hesitate to spend hundreds (even thousands) of dollars to fix our car’s transmission when it’s broken, but cringe at the idea of spending the same amount to enhance our health, or quality of life. We often see it as a selfish act. If this is you, take a moment to reflect on the positive effect you’ll have on others when you feel better and your general mood is happier… Being happy is the best thing you can do for both you, and others! **Exercise: Give up a costly bad habit for only 30 days, and use the money you would have normally spent on that habit on a new book, course, or treatment for your better health. Investing in your self-care always results in the greatest returns. Invest in yourself generously.

Dr. Christian Guenette has one goal: to help alleviate the unnecessary suffering on this planet. He is a holistic chiropractor, life-coach, and co-author of the bestselling book: The Thought That Changed My Life Forever. Dr. Guenette shares the art, science and philosophy of being happy in an 8-week program called Happyness Unlimited – starting January 7th, 2015 in Vancouver, BC. For more information, go to www.happynessunlimited.com. References available on request from Vista

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SOMETHING FROM NOTHING… By Dr. Cory Holly

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

n “A Universe from Nothing: Why There Is Something Rather than Nothing”, theoretical physicist and cosmologist Lawrence M. Krauss reveals that nothing is not nothing. Nothing is something and this he explains, with compelling evidence in the language of particle physics, quantum mechanics and scientific observation, is how the cosmos came into being. Read or listen to the book, or watch his lecture on YouTube. Either way, it might change your perspective on life and how you interpret your own origin. Personally, I love thinking I came from nothing because that’s exactly where I’m headed! But guess what? Nothing is something! The statement defies our inherent sense of intuition, but today we must accept that almost everything that is real about our universe is impossible to detect or interpret using our limited perceptual senses. Take light for example. Light is a form of radiant energy, typically defined as electromagnetic radiation visible to the human eye. The visible region perceived as light is responsible for our sense of sight. For most of history, visible light was the only known part of the electromagnetic spectrum. But the entire spectrum, possible to detect only with imaging sensor technology, consists of a wide range of electromagnetic radiation frequencies, including radio waves, microwaves, gamma rays, X-rays, ultraviolet, infrared, terahertz and visible radiation. So much for believing only in what we can see or for that matter, in anything without evidence, but here are the facts. Humans literally reconstruct a model of perceived reality in the posterior region of the brain called the visual cortex. Seeing begins when the lens of the eye focuses an external image on the photoreceptive cells of the retina. Photons of light are detected, neural impulses are produced and a signal is sent to the visual cortex to be processed. When you look at anything, what you actually see is an image from the past. We exist in the present, but we can only see in the past because light travels at 299,792,458 m/s and, therefore, takes time to move between objects. Without light we’re all blind. We can only see what was, not actually what is and to see at all, we need light.

The “nothing” in the context of this article refers to the absence of movement, exercise and physical activity plainly evident in the vast majority of the population, especially adults. In spite of media hype and a vast number of recreational centers, gyms and fitness clubs, less than 2% of Canadian adults exercise routinely as a way of life. The “something” that comes from the direct result of doing nothing is empirically obvious. Chronic widespread disease, premature degeneration, mental depression, obesity, heart disease, cancer and well, you get my drift, all manner of physical decay and morbidity. SITTING IS THE NEW SMOKING Physical activity is the bane of modern life. We hate it and will do almost anything to avoid it. First world humans have become experts at doing nothing and we even pride ourselves on it. Work that involves the slightest degree of physical exertion is viewed with disdain. Walking a block is a waste of time. Wouldn’t it be great if just lying around doing nothing created optimum health and vibrant wellness? Imagine a world of people existing in stasis using only our brains. But real life isn’t like that, although observation of the conventional-minded masses would suggest we think otherwise. Humans evolved with the need to move and, like it or not, that essential biological need is still firmly established in the language of our genetic code. Physical activity was essential to our ability to hunt and gather, build shelter, defend ourselves and even procreate. In simple terms, if we couldn’t move we died. But sadly and to our national detriment, all of that has now changed. Today we’re breaking all the rules and the penalty is revealed by the law of cause and effect. Our present state of health is the effect. Blatant disregard for physical activity and exercise is the cause. Amidst all the fancy automobiles, beautiful homes and jet airplanes, we’ve created a literal sea of infection, chronic pain and human suffering, all hidden from view behind the latest fashions of silk, linen and synthetics. Do you really think you can hide from reality?

In our culture of self-deception, decadence and pleasure-seeking madness, what lies behind the mantle is irrelevant, until of course, nature reminds you of her true power. Nature plays no favorites and if you disobey her, she makes you pay for it. “If you don’t pay me now”, she says, “I’ll make you pay me later tenfold.” But pay you must. Think of that each time you go to the gym. You’re actually paying a toll charge to get across the bridge of life in one piece. Life is a sport, and like any sport, it has rules. One of the rules of life that goes beyond food, air and water is physical movement. Humans are designed to move and we don’t make the rules, nature does. We are not the architects. Modern society has convinced itself that because virtually no one has to physically work any longer to get their bread and water, the physical work once required to achieve that end is now obsolete and worthless. But nothing could be farther from the truth. We created a biological gap with our technology and it’s killing us. “But Cory”, you say, “We’re living longer than ever. The life expectancy in Canada is 81 compared to the Neolithic average of 20.” Agreed. But once again I invite you to take a good look around. Examine the stats. Visit any urban hospital. Look around at the people who are living longer. Talk to them, but get past their persona of false perfection. Google the acronym for FINE and see what it really means. Soon you’ll discover how very few of us actually enjoy excellent functional health, inward and out.

Like zoo animals kept in cages we do live longer. But are we living better? What appears to be something wonderful on the surface is actually quite different underneath. Behind the fake smiles, colorful make-up and fancy suits lurks what we dare not mention. Multiple surgeries, chronic inflammation, sagging skin, drooping body parts, brittle bones, muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, infertility, incontinence, insomnia, headaches, damaged organs, cellulite, bulging waistlines and the secret need for an infinite number of medications – all evidence of something from nothing. If you want to live long and stay well in this century, physical exercise is not an option. Get with Nature’s program. Learn about Blue Zones, telomere chemistry and life extension strategies. It’s much better to be a biological conduit than a stagnant pool. A stagnant pool is a breeding ground for disease. Sedentary living adds to our burden of stress. It actually causes morbidity and substantially increases all-cause mortality risk. Prolonged inactivity destroys the immune system, robs the body of vital capacity and greatly reduces human motivation. But when you fight the urge to do nothing and physically move your body, something wonderful happens. The nothing changes into controlled intelligent movement and a spectacular new universe of health and wellness is created! The Cory Holly Institute is an online school of holistic, integrative and functional sports nutrition. Stop doing nothing and do something to improve your health. Details at CoryHolly.com

Cory Holly Institute Online Online School of Holistic Sports Nutrition Do Something Physical Instead of Nothing… CoryHolly.com

Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow

ORGANIC PLANET Feature

WE DAY By Shelly Lynn Nellis

THE NEW

F WORD By David Suzuki

LIPSTICKS CONTAINING LEAD By Michael Bloch

Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow

WE DAY 2014

WHY WE DAY? Every young person has the power to change the world. We Day believes in supporting this potential by educating today’s students about the greatest local and global issues of our time. We Day believes in bringing a generation together by proving that no one is alone in their desire for change. We Day believes in celebrating the actions of young people and inspiring them to redefine what is possible. WHAT IS WE DAY? Youth coming together to make the world a better place is the global movement of our time – We Day is this movement. An annual series of stadium-sized events, We Day brings together world-renowned speakers and performers – from Malala Yousafzai and Martin Sheen to Demi Lovato – with tens of thousands of youth to kick-start a year of action through We Act. You can’t buy a ticket to We Day – you earn it by taking on one local and one global action. More than a one-day event, We Day is connected to the year-long We Act program, which offers educational resources and campaigns to help young people turn the day’s inspiration into sustained action. We Day and We Act are cause inclusive, empowering young people to find their passion and create the change they want to see. By taking action on one local and one global cause, students are equipped with the tools

to succeed academically, in the workplace and as active citizens. Together, We Day and We Act are a blueprint for helping the next generation of global citizens. There were so many inspirational speakers at the event: Nick Jonas, Mackemore & Ryan Lewis, Orlando Bloom, Shawn Mendes, Donnie Yen, Marianas Trench, Debby Ryan, Silken Laumann, Kardinal Offishall, Karl Wolf, Shawn Desman, Kay, JRDN, Victoria Duffield, Ashly Rose Murphey, Spencer West, Hannah Alper, Mustafa The Poet, Neverest, Robin Wiszowaty, Travis Price, and the founders Craig and Marc Kielburger. The special surprise performance was by Selena Gomez. I was amazed that 20, 000 students earned their way into the event by making positive changes in the world. Imagine the ripple effect from each and every person! If you know a young person, make sure you tell them about We Day and get them excited to be part of the change our world needs for a positive future. MEMORABLE QUOTES “We have to make good use of the time we have. That simple. We have to wake up every day, knowing that it’s not just an ordinary day. We have to take the moment, seize each day.” – Orlando Bloom “One in three Canadian teens are bullied. That’s nearly two million young Canadians who are teased and excluded. Nearly two million who are silenced in the classroom, losing out on their education.” – Shawn Desman “1.2 billion people from around the world live on less than $1.25 a day.” – Robin Wiszowaty “You can’t do everything, but you can do something. Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” – Travis Price “You are not defined by an Instagram photo, by a like, by a comment. That does not define you.” – Selena Gomez For more information visit www.weday.com

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

y name is Ainslee. I am 8 years old and my father is Trent, the publisher of Vista Magazine. I was lucky to be able to attend We Day in Vancouver, BC on October 23, 2014. Do you do not know what We Day is? We Day was started in 2007, in Toronto, by two brothers, Craig and Marc Kielburger. The very first event was held at the Ricoh Coliseum and 8000 students attended! Seven years later, We Day events are being held in Canada, the USA, and the UK. Talk about success!

Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow

ORGANIC PLANET

THE NEW F WORD By David Suzuki with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Communications Specialist Jode Roberts.

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

ave you heard of flupyradifurone? Probably not, unless you work for the federal government agency poised to approve this new pesticide for use in Canada. But take note: This new “F” word is bad news for bees. Flupyradifurone is an insect-killing systemic pesticide similar to the controversial neonicotinoid, or neonic, family of bee-killing chemicals. When applied to seeds or soil, it’s absorbed by plant roots and travels to leaves, flowers, pollen and nectar, making the plant potentially toxic to insects. This past summer, the international Task Force on Systemic Pesticides analyzed 800 scientific studies and concluded that systemic pesticides like neonics are harming bees, butterflies, birds and worms and should be phased out globally. The European Union banned three neonics for “crops attractive to bees”, but the European Environment Agency says that’s just a starting point, and recommends regulators look at similar pesticides and take into account potential harmful effects on aquatic invertebrates, birds and other insects. The EEA also found “mounting scientific evidence has been systematically suppressed for many years and early warnings were ignored.”   Inexplicably, Canada’s Pest Management Regulation Agency has yet to respond to the Task Force findings and now wants to approve a new systemic pesticide. What’s especially troubling is that, in its description, the PMRA states flupyradifurone “may pose a risk” to bees, birds, worms, spiders, small mammals and aquatic bugs, and that it doesn’t readily break down in water, air or sunlight and may carry over to the following growing season. When it enters streams, rivers and wetlands, “it may persist for a long time.”   Like neonics, flupyradifurone is a nerve poison, acutely toxic to bees if ingested. As in the past, we don’t fully understand the cumulative effects of the increasing amounts of today’s insecticides, pesticides, fungicides and other chemicals being applied to crops across the country. Neonicotinoids are showing up more frequently and in higher concentrations than the harmful chemicals they replaced. A study last year found 90 per cent of Saskatchewan prairie potholes contained residual neonics in the spring, before farmers planted their fields. Research from the U.S. Midwest found neonics in all 79 samples taken from 9 rivers. Similar results have been found in wetlands, streams and rivers in the southwest U.S., Georgia and California.

It’s not even clear whether the widespread use of neonic seed treatments increases agricultural yields. A recent report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding soy crop treatments concluded, “these seed treatments provide little or no overall benefits to soybean production in most situations. Published data indicate that in most cases there is no difference in soybean yield when soybean seed was treated with neonicotinoids versus not receiving any insect control treatment.”   The European Environment Agency also found a 2004 ban on neonicotinoid chemicals by France for sunflower and maize crops hasn’t negatively affected productivity. In fact, yields were higher in 2007 than they’d been in a decade. You’d think we’d learn from past experience with persistent and bioaccumulative pesticides like DDT and organophosphates, and the more recent research on neonicotinoids. DDT was widely used until Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring drew attention to its negative impacts on ecosystems, wildlife and humans. Many, but not all, organophosphate pesticides have also been pulled from widespread use because we learned their neurotoxic effects posed serious risks to humans and wildlife. Rather than approving new pesticides that may harm pollinators, birds and other animals, including humans, we need better ways to protect crops. A recent report, “Alternatives to neonicotinoid insecticides for pest control”, published in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research, suggests further research and methods including “diversifying crop rotations, altering the timing of planting, tillage and irrigation, using less sensitive crops in infested areas, applying biological control agents,” and other lower-risk alternatives. BAN THE NEW “F” WORD   We need to stop contaminating the environment with neonics and related systemic pesticides. Approving flupyradifurone would take us in the wrong direction. Canada’s Pest Management Regulation Agency is accepting comments on flupyradifurone approval until November 3. You can submit through the PMRA or David Suzuki Foundation websites.  Putting bees and ecosystem functioning at risk endangers us all. It’s time to find a better way.

Educating Today... For a Better Tomorrow

LIPSTICKS CONTAINING LEAD O

ver the past year, I’ve been doing a lot of reading on cosmetics for a couple of reasons, none of them being that I wear or wish I did use them :). One of the reasons for my interest is I believe cosmetics contributed to my mother’s early death. Cosmetics didn’t cause the original problem (a form of kidney disease), but given the impaired kidney function that went undetected for so long, combined with her desire to always be well presented and the products she used to do so, they surely wouldn’t have helped. I hate to think how many days of my mother’s life were spent “putting her face on” – but more importantly, the hundreds of pounds of cosmetics she used over the years in various forms – all in direct contact with her skin, and many being absorbed into her body. What I’ve learned has not only confirmed the above, but has also made me realize just how much the cosmetics industry has contributed to the production of environmental toxins: the plastics, the packaging… and the ingredients. For example, a report on lipsticks carried out by the Campaign for Safer Cosmetics states a third of brand-name lipsticks tested exceeded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s 0.1 ppm limit for lead in candy. Like candy, lipstick is also ingested. I can’t remember the exact figures, but a woman who wears lipstick 5 days a week over 20 years winds up ingesting a couple of pounds of the stuff. There is no safe level for lead; it causes environmental and health problems even at low levels, particularly to infants, young children and pregnant women. Lead can come from many sources and tends to accumulate in the body, so it should be avoided wherever possible. If a product you ingest/apply to your skin contains lead, what

doesn’t accumulate in the body is excreted or washed off, so it winds up in our waterways. Then there are all those millions of small chunks of lipstick that are thrown away annually. Aside from lead, many lipsticks contain synthetics, colors and petroleum based waxes. And this is something put around the mouth? Incredible. The news about lead in lipstick is another good reason women should take particular care in what they apply to their skin. These days, there’s a wide range of competitively priced natural cosmetic product alternatives available – including lipsticks. The Internet is a really good tool for locating these more human and environmentally friendly items by searching using terms such as “organic” and “natural” followed by the type of product. Having located products of interest, still be cautious – check the ingredients list and run further searches on those components. If you were to go through the cosmetics you currently own, you might be in for a bit of a shock at the laboratory you find in your makeup supplies. Even many hair products and shampoos are toxic chemical cocktails. Unlike some other environmental issues, cosmetics are an area you can certainly have a high degree of control over. If enough consumers protest by spending their makeup dollars elsewhere on more natural and organic products, the cosmetic companies using these toxic ingredients will sit up and take notice.

Michael Bloch publishes Green Living Tips, an online resource powered by renewable energy offering a wide variety of Earth friendly tips and environment related news to help consumers reduce costs, consumption and environmental impact.www.greenlivingtips.com

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

By Michael Bloch

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VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

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VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

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SURVIVING COLD AND FLU SEASON By Jolie Root LPN

VISTA MAGAZINE ISSUE 97

hether you’ve just sent your child back to school, you’re a frequent traveler worried about staying healthy, or you are just trying to avoid catching the latest bug going around the office, here are some basic tips for keeping your resistance powered up during this busy time of year. If viruses are the enemy and your immune system the troops that defend you, think of the major antioxidants as a highly skilled special ops team. Key members on this team include vitamins A, C, D, and the mineral zinc. Antioxidants are the nutritional Special Forces that boost immune function. Vitamins A, C, D, and zinc defend our health from infections. Vitamin A works tirelessly to support healing and is especially vigorous at empowering the immune system. Vitamin A is found in butter, milk, fish and eggs and cod liver oil is a great source. People who are only mildly deficient in vitamin A have a higher incidence of respiratory disease compared to those who consume sufficient vitamin A. Anti-infective vitamin A is fundamental for normal functioning of the immune system. The skin and mucous membrane cells that line the airways, digestive tract, and urinary tract form the body’s first line of defense against infection. Vitamin A is required to maintain the health and strength of these cells. Vitamin C is another important member of the immunity-boosting team. Vitamin C concentrations in the body and in immune cells drop rapidly during infections and stress. Abundant in many fruits and vegetables, vitamin C makes the white blood cells more active against bacterial or viral invaders. There is one exception. In one study, marathon runners, skiers, and soldiers exposed to extreme cold or physical exertion got sick half as often when they took vitamin C as a preventive measure. Regular vitamin C supplementation at levels at or slightly above 1000 mg/day is the dose consistent with reduced incidence and duration of colds. So, while the vitamin doesn’t ensure that you’ll never catch a cold, it does seem to help you get better faster, and feel better while you fight the infection. What if the respiratory infection is something a little more serious than the common cold? Three studies showed an 80% reduction in the incidence of pneumonia among vitamin C users. In one large study

involving 700 students, vitamin C supplements, when started at the first sign of symptoms (1000 mg per hour for the first 6 hours followed by 3000 mg per day), reduced flu symptoms by 85%. The sunshine vitamin is also a must if you wish to keep your family healthy year round, but especially during the cold and flu season. Vitamin D boosts the immune system and enhances the body’s ability to kill bacteria or viruses, those hostile invaders that make their way into body cells. Vitamin D is necessary for cells in your lungs to fight infection. Immune cells everywhere in the body, including in your lungs, use vitamin D to produce a germ killing compound called cathelicidin. Your immune cells then release cathelicidin to kill bacteria and viruses. This response does not work if there is a lack of vitamin D. Studies reveal that having adequate levels of vitamin D (levels of at least (75 nmol/L) not only boosted the bacteria-killing cathelicidin, but also improved the ability of immune troops to identify invaders. In one of the largest studies looking at the link between vitamin D and respiratory infections, people with the lowest blood vitamin D levels reported having significantly more respiratory infections and or cases of the flu. The risks were highest for those with chronic respiratory disorders, such as asthma. So don’t let a vitamin D deficiency put you in harm’s way this cold season. Insufficient levels of the sunshine vitamin are widespread. Since vitamin D levels naturally decrease during autumn and winter when days are shorter and sunlight is much less strong, vitamin D supplementation, especially in vulnerable groups such as students and the elderly, could strengthen people’s wintertime resistance to viral infections. The mineral zinc boosts the production of white blood cells that fight infection and zinc increases natural killer cells that fight against cancer and helps white cells release more antibodies. Taking zinc lozenges at the first sign of cold symptoms can help to reduce the number of days you are sick. If you do become ill, rest is the best medicine. Gargle with warm salt water and use a saline nasal rinse to kill germs in the nose and throat. Get plenty of fluids and use a humidifier to moisten the air to soothe your sinuses and airways.

Are You Getting Enough of the Sunshine Vitamin? Recent medical studies have shown that many people may not receive enough vitamin D in their daily lives. Our bodies can make vitamin D3, but only when our skin is exposed to sunlight under the proper conditions. This production is dependent on the season, where we live and the time of day. Even using sunscreen may reduce the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production of vitamin D. Medical studies continue to show that adequate vitamin D intake helps in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. Carlson Vitamin D soft gels are a great way to ensure that you and your loved ones receive the vitamin D you need.

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