VISTA Issue #65 by Chris Hart

Y O U R C A N A D I A N H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S C O N N E C T I O N vistamagonline.com

ISSUE 65 July / August 2009

ENTER TO

PAGE 38

PAIN-FREE Fun in the Sun CANADAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

PREMIER HEALTH Interview with

World Famous Canadian Artist

ROBERT BATEMAN

Organic Planet feature:

Part II

Calling ALL Cell Phone Users Summer B.B.Q. Pesto Meat Patties How to have a Greener Summer Vacation

DRIVE

ASPIRATIONS

ATHLETICISM

SOUL SPIRIT FUEL YOUR...

DETERMINATION

INNER CHILD WONDER CREATIVITY

Thomasina Pidgeon

Vega Ambassador since 2005. First Canadian woman to climb V12. Proud mother. Climbs to live. Lives to climb.

PASSION

ENERGY s STAMINA s MENTAL FOCUS s RECOVERY Vega Sport was formulated by Brendan Brazier, professional Ironman triathlete and bestselling author, to significantly enhance physical and mental performance for anyone seeking athletic improvement. Providing sustaining energy, enhanced mental focus and increased aerobic and anaerobic capacity, it also replenishes electrolytes and reduces inflammation, joint and muscle pain to assist recovery. Sporting a synergistic array of organic plant-based ingredients and free of common allergens such as gluten, dairy and soy, Vega Sport will help take you to the next level, safely and naturally. Learn more by reading Brendanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new book Thrive Fitness.

1.866.839.8863

myvega.com

The name says it all - or does it? ✔ Certifed Organic ✔ 100% Pure ✔ Fresh-pressed (not from concentrate)

✔ Antioxidant and Nutrient-rich ✔ Unfiltered ✔ Delicious ✔ Bottled in Canada

www.vervenaturals.com • 1-888-313-3369 Another fine product line from

www.vistamagonline.com

contents Issue 65 | July / August 2009

26 9

14 Canada’s Premier Health:

Editor’s Healthlines By Carol Crenna Vege out

10 Quenching Your Thirst after

Sports

By Brendan Brazier

By Susan McLoughlin Aromatherapy oils for perfect skin

By Carol Crenna Interviews with Premiers

16 Vegan Proteins: Hemp, Soy

13 Soothing Skin Solutions

Part 2

and Brown Rice

By Don Gauvreau Learn more about vegetarian protein

18 Pain-Free Fun in the Sun

By Maureen Fontaine Exercise without injury

20 Anti-Aging Skincare

By Shelly Lynn Nellis Beautifying skin

22 Achieve Better Athletic

24 Recipe for Health

Performance – Part 2

By Andrea Bartels and Joelle Lyew

By Tracy Holly Pesto patties

26 Bringing Nature Home:

Robert Bateman

By Carol Crenna Interview with wildlife painter Robert Bateman

28 Beautiful From the Outside In?

7016 4

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

By Sophia Stewart Natural skincare

30 Making Sense of Menopause

By Lorna Vanderhaeghe Safe ways to decrease symptoms

www.vistamagonline.com

VISTA

Publisher’s

word

M A G A Z I N E

Publisher:

Trent Nellis

Editor:

Carol Crenna

Marketing Director & Associate Editor:

Shelly-Lynn Nellis

Copy Editor:

Dan Tidsbury

Art Director:

Cindy Hughes

Graphic Design:

Chris Hart

Vice-President, Sales:

Paul Airut tel (778) 222-7775 e-mail paulairut@telus.net

cOVER CREDIT:

I came across this a couple of weeks ago and thought is was worth sharing. Positive thoughts, logic and hope can go a long way when properly presented. 1. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good. 2. When in doubt, just take the next small step. 3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. 4. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does. 5. Pay off your credit cards every month. 6. You don’t have to win every argument. Agree to disagree. 7. Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone. 8. It’s OK to get angry with God. He can take it. 9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck. 10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile. 11. Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present. 12. It’s OK to let your children see you cry. 13. Don’t compare your life to others’. You have no idea what their journey is all about. 14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn’t be in it. 15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don’t worry; God never blinks. 16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying. 17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today. 18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write. 19. It’s never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don’t take no for an answer. 21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special. 22. Over prepare and then go with the flow. 23. Be eccentric now. Don’t wait for old age to wear purple. 24. The most important sex organ is the brain. 25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you. 26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: “In five years, will this matter?” 27. Always choose life. 28. Forgive everyone everything. 29. What other people think of you is none of your business. 30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time. 31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change. 32. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch. 33. Believe in miracles. 34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn’t do. 35. Whatever doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger. 36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young. 37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable. 38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion. 39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere. 40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back. 41. Don’t audit life. Show up and make the most of it now. 42. Get rid of anything that isn’t useful, beautiful or joyful. 43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved. 44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need. 45. The best is yet to come. 46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up. 47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind. 48. If you don’t ask, you don’t get. 49. Yield. 50. Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift.

Norm Lightfoot

Contributing Writers: Andrea Bartels, Brendan Brazier,

Carol Crenna, Chelsea Danchuk, Dr Claude Gallant, Cory Holly, Dr. David Suzuki, Don Gauvreau , Joelle Lyew, John Austen, Lorna Vanderhaeghe, Maureen Fontaine, Michael Bloch, Michelle Kwon, Reese Whitaker, Shelly Lynn Nellis, Sophia Stewart, Susan McLoughlin, Tracy Holly VISTA Magazine publishes bi-monthly issues and is distributed through the health food retailers of Canada. Send all questions, comments, and inquiries to: VISTA Magazine 13256 55A Avenue Surrey, BC CANADA V3X 3B3 Tel (604) 591-9991 or (877) 905-7771 Fax (604) 591-1989 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 necessarily 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 2009, 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 plus GST = $41.95. Include your address and we’ll ship you our next issue. Single copies are also available for $6.95 plus GST = $7.37. Canadian Publications Mail Products Sales Agreement #40025872 ISSN #1715-8214 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Magazine Fund toward our editorial costs.

Trent E. Nellis, Publisher Health Action Network Society

To contact Trent Nellis via e‑mail, write to thepub@shaw.ca

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

The World’s Best Tasting Protein Shake!

™

NEW WHEY GOURMET® NATURELLE Whey Gourmet® is “The World’s Best Tasting Protein Shake!” because of the meticulous effort put into designing real flavour sensations. Now Whey Gourmet® is also available in six NEW Naturelle™ flavours. No artificial sweeteners, colours or flavours. • Mixes Easily, no blender required. • Just 120 satisfying calories. • Provides the right amount of protein (20g) per serving. 100% GOURMET NOW ALSO IN 100% NATURELLE™ VANILLA BEAN

POMEGRANATE BLUEBERRY

STRAWBERRY BANANA

CHAI LATTE

MATCHA GREEN TEA

CHOCOLATE MALT

DISTRIBUTED BY

.com

contents 45 Calling All Cell Phone Users

By John Austen Potential dangers in mobile phones

46 Paperback Heroes

By Michelle Kwon Books that inspire healthy living

47 The Buzz on Insect Repellents

50 32 Too Hot to Handle:

48 Sports Nutrition Update

By Dr Claude Gallant Why you should keep your body cool

34 Searching for a Younger Body

By Alain Prud’homme Increase your body’s building blocks

36 Xanthones: Antioxidants

Important for Inner Health By Reese Whitaker Eat certain fruits to stay young

By Cory Holly Cell phone addiction

49 Enjoy the Sun; Save the Skin

Hyperthermia

By John Austen Are insect repellents safe?

By Michelle Kwon Help for sun-damaged skin

50 Antioxidants: Beyond a

Buzzword

By Chelsea Danchuk Get the basic antioxidant nutrients

51 Perfect your Body

By Michelle Kwon Vibrations help to enhance your physique

41 Have a Greener Summer Vacation

By Shelly Lynn Nellis Ways to enjoy summer with the kids

42 Staycation vs Vacation

By Michael Bloch Why go away?

43 Green House

By Carol Crenna Building a zero-energy home

44 It’s No Sacrifice to Protect the Environment

By Dr. David Suzuki Helping the planet is a win-win situation

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Editor’s Healthlines

VISTA M A G A Z I N E

Carol Crenna, rhn

board o f advi so r s

Vege out

W Dr. Michael Colgan, PhD, CCN

Dr. Gloria Gilbère

Dr. Christian uenette, DC G

Cory Holly, DN

Dr. Stefan Kuprowsky, BSc, MA, ND

Tomás Nimmo

Dr. Terry Willard, ClH, PhD

Dr. Zoltan Rona, MD

hen Mom said, “Eat your vegetables,” you did. And you may have learned to love them, and now you eagerly browse farmers’ markets for beets and broccoli, tomatoes and turnips. You’ve also been told that you should eat “a rainbow” of colourful vegetables to get all of the different nutrients that your body needs per day – in green cabbage, purple eggplant, orange yam and yellow bell pepper. Yet surveys show that only 20 percent of North Americans get an adequate amount of vegies (eating only 3.5 servings per day instead of 5 to10) and you eat the same few foods over and over again – your favourites – rarely trying anything new. You can win the nutrition game, one vegetable at a time. Scientists are just scratching the surface in finding out what’s in them. They’ve currently found over 2,000 phytochemicals – powerful compounds that make you look and feel more youthful, vibrant, healthy and happy (it’s not just about fighting disease) – in addition to giving vegies their colours and flavours. But how do vegetables stack up? Few of us know which ones will give the biggest bang for your buck. For example, did you know that there are over 40 different phytochemicals in broccoli, 70 in the herb tarragon and 170 phytochemicals in oranges? You know that vegies are good for you but do you know what they’re good for? Did you know that a lemon – used to prevent colds and scurvy with its vitamin C content – has only 100 milligrams of it whereas a bell pepper has 340 milligrams of vitamin C? Did you know that a cup of kale has 90 milligrams of calcium, half of your daily recommended amount, which is said to be better absorbed than calcium in milk? Did you know that in a cup of strawberries you get over 3 grams of fibre from the 100 seeds in every berry? Did you know that a cup of asparagus packs 172 micrograms of hard-to-find-butvital vitamin B12? To get other vegetable facts check out www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/ search and www.healthalternatives2000.com/ vegetables-nutrition-chart.html. Mother Nature also gives clues in the vegetables themselves to tell you what’s good for

what. For example, a sliced carrot looks like the human eye – the pupil and iris – and we all know that carrots’ beta carotene (with 19,000 IUs of vitamin A per half cup) greatly enhances blood flow to and function of the eyes. A tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red, and tomatoes are loaded with lycopene which enhances the heart. New research suggests that dietary lycopene may significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, and that women with the highest levels of the antioxidant in their blood have a 34 percent reduced risk of the disease compared to those with lower levels of the nutrient. Sweet potatoes are the same shape as the pancreas and are known to assist in healing of the pancreas and stomach. The high content of beta-carotene, vitamin A (24,877 milligrams) and anthocyanins in a sweet potato may also help fight pancreatic cancer. And being fairly low on the glycemic index with lots of fibre, they have a slow, mild effect on blood sugar, regulated by the pancreas. The stalks of celery, bok choy and kale resemble bones. These foods target bone strength and replenish the skeletal needs of the body with their high content of calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium. A new study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism finds that eating mineral-rich alkaline vegetables can reduce calcium excretion in bones. Reacting to dietary acid (from meat, dairy, grains, sugar), bones are broken down, releasing minerals into the blood to keep it alkaline. Eating potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium decreases “resorption” of bones. The simplest route to health is to feed your cells with life-giving nutrients in fresh vegetables. You need 47 nutrients every day to maintain health – 19 vitamins, 13 minerals, 5 phytonutrients, 3 fatty acids, and 7 other nutritional factors. When they’re eaten together in whole foods, these nutrients provide the bricks and mortar to build a strong foundation. Leave any nutrient out or eat it in insufficient amounts and the foundation’s strength weakens.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

www.vistamagonline.com

Quenching Your Thirst after Sports By Brendan Brazier

port drinks demystified: The role of a basic sport drink is to fuel and hydrate an athlete during competition or training — that’s it. Typical sport drinks are comprised of two ingredients: sugar and electrolytes. Carbohydrates (sugar and electrolytes) and, of course, water are functional components. Sugar provides instant fuel for working muscles, thereby extending endurance. Electrolytes (usually sodium and potassium) replace the salts lost through sweat, which are important because their presence directly enhances the fluidity of muscle contractions and significantly reduces muscle cramping. Unfortunately, these are not all that most conventional sport drinks contain. Many are packed with a plethora of artificial colours and flavours. And what reduces their health-enhancing ingredients most significantly is the source of the carbohydrates on which these drinks are based. Fuel source matters: While sugar is the purest form of fuel for working muscles and the brain, the source is what matters most. Conventional sport drinks typically supply sugar from highly processed, denatured and often genetically-modified sources. High fructose corn syrup (or corn syrup solids) is the most commonly used form. It’s cheap, plentiful and has a shelf life that rivals plastics. Therefore, it has emerged as the go-to sweetener for commercially-available processed foods. The popularity of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) doesn’t extend into the health conscious community due to the blood sugar crash it delivers after eating or drinking it and the extensive processing required in producing it. Originating from genetically modified corn starch, HFCS is manufactured by processing the starch into syrup, which is comprised almost completely of

glucose. To this glucose base an enzyme is added to convert the glucose into fructose-rich syrup. For just-add-water sport drinks, the syrup is processed further still into a dehydrated, powdered form. Clearly, significant processing must be undertaken to convert corn into sugar, so much so that many refrain from even classifying HFCS as food, and “a food-like substance” is its chosen category. Another common form of highly processed sugar in sport drinks is maltodextrin. Most often derived from corn (though it can also come from potatoes, wheat and rice), maltodextrin has several similarities to HFCS. Maltodextrin is cheap, plentiful and highly shelfstable. It’s manufactured by high-temperature cooking of the source food. Once reduced to a starchy mush, an acid is added to further break down the starch, raising its sugar percentage. As with HFCS, maltodextrin can be more accurately categorized as “a food-like substance.” Healthier carbohydrate sources: In contrast to these common sugars, natural, whole food sources of easily digestible, clean-burning carbohydrate can be used. They will not only boost athletic performance in the short term, but will not cause unnecessary dietary stress that can lead to lesser health. This is important since only with a strong health base can optimal athletic performance be built. Ideally, a sport drink should provide two types of carbohydrate: one which releases quickly into the blood stream for immediate energy and a second with a delayed and prolonged release to provide sustained energy. Therefore, a combination of high and low glycemic index carbohydrates is ideal. Sprouted whole grain rice syrup solids are an excellent option for a high glycemic index carbohydrate that provides immediate energy. Sprouting, as opposed to cooking, improves digestibility while allowing the rice to remain raw and the enzymes active. For sustained energy, palm nectar is an excellent choice as one of the lowest glycemic index carbohydrates. Obtained from the flower of the palm tree, palm nectar is easy to digest and is among the best food sources of sustained energy available. Agave nectar, from the agave cactus, is also a good source. Electrolytes? Electrolytes are electricityconducting salts. Calcium, chloride, magnesium,

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

potassium and sodium are the chief electrolyte minerals. Sodium and potassium, the most important electrolytes to replenish during activity, are responsible for the maintenance of smooth muscle contractions. Electrolytes in body fluid and blood regulate or affect the flow of nutrients into and waste products out of cells. They are essential for muscle contractions, heartbeats, fluid regulation and nerve function. When too few electrolyte minerals are ingested, you may suffer muscle cramps, heart palpitations, lightheadedness and trouble concentrating. In severe cases, lack of electrolytes leads to loss of equilibrium, confusion and inability to reason. Not just water: You may have noticed saltlike crystals forming on your face when you perspire heavily. Those are electrolytes (what’s left when the water component of sweat has evaporated) and they have to be replenished through food and drink. But not just any drink. When you consume too much fluid that does not contain electrolytes (for example, mineral-less water), it can flush out the remaining electrolytes in our body. This is referred to as water intoxication. While it isn’t common among the general population, people who perform strenuous physical activity, especially in a warm environment, are susceptible. Functional ingredients: While the core components of any sport drink are carbohydrates and electrolytes, better sport drinks will offer additional ingredients that provide a variety of specific functions. For example, ginger and turmeric are added to some in an effort to reduce inflammation. Green tea or yerba mate are also excellent ingredients for sport drinks since they provide a natural boost in energy (with a stimulant) and help the body burn fat as fuel, creating a learner body and enhanced endurance. Look for natural functional ingredients, minimally refined carbohydrates and a spectrum of electrolytes to get more out of your sport drink and take your performance to the next level. Brendan Brazier is a professional Ironman triathlete, two-time Canadian 50km ultra marathon champion and author. Brendan’s follow-up to the best-selling book, The Thrive Diet is Thrive Fitness (Penguin Canada) which includes a step-by-step fitness programme and a free online wellness programme at Thrivein30.com. Visit www.brendanbrazier.com for more info.

the evolution of...

breakfast

Start your day the Vega way. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not your grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breakfast anymore. Give your favorite shake or smoothie an instant boost of complete protein, fiber, Omega 3 EFAs and green superfoods! Just blend Vega Smoothie Infusion with fruit, ice, water or juice to create a whole food fortified custom smoothie creation your entire family will enjoy! Made exclusively from natural plant-based whole foods and rich in organic, raw ingredients, Vega Smoothie Infusion is alkaline-forming and easy to digest. Best of all, Vega is clean, green and free of common allergens including corn, dairy, gluten, soy, wheat and yeast.

myvega.com

1.866.839.8863

more balanced wellness brought to you by

www.vistamagonline.com

Soothing Skin Solutions By Susan McLoughlin

en and women have been plucking, shaving, painting and adorning their bodies for thousands of years in order to enhance their beauty and allure. These practices have remained surprisingly consistent over time. Flip through any contemporary women’s magazine and you can’t miss the omnipresent ads for creams, colours, textures, cover-ups and scents — all designed to enhance, hide, diminish, attract and dazzle. While such questionable practices as crocodile manure face masks and lead paint for skin whitening have been wisely abandoned, the attraction of natural treatments in skincare has endured. Now, as in Cleopatra’s time, the most important resource for healing and beautifying is still the natural world’s extravagant diversity of botanical extracts. One of the earliest and most universal means of perfuming and healing the body was the ointment or “unguent.” Ointments were frequently made of oils mixed with resins, nut butters and natural waxes. Not much has changed with this basic formulation; however, the diversity of ingredients available today would make the earlier alchemists weep with envy! A quick check at a health food store reveals skincare product ingredients including lavender oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, shea butter, calendula extract, rosehip oil, citrus extracts, seabuckthorn oil, chamomile oil and pomegranate seed oil. The selection of botanical extracts is both an art and a science. Aromatherapists will maintain that the fragrance contributes as much to well being as do the medicinal ingredients, and it is hard to argue with that when breathing in the heady sweetness of roses or lavender. There is usually a long history of remedial activity associated with botanicals. For example, in addition to its delicious and soothing scent, lavender is both antiseptic and analgesic and is particularly effective in treating sunburn. Beeswax is one of nature’s most benign and versatile gifts. It has been used for thousands of years in abundant ways. It is the perfect base for salves and ointments because it mixes well with essential oils and botanicals, and it also provides a moisture barrier for sensitive skin. Chamomile is one of the most popular

photo: z denkam

herbs. It is reputed to have a relaxing, sedative effect — a cup of chamomile tea is a historic recipe for a good night’s sleep. Chamomile oil is used frequently in skincare as a soothing, cooling anti-inflammatory for skin conditions. It is highly recommended in baby products since children find the fragrance calming. Calendula oil is made from an infusion of marigold petals in an oil carrier and is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory activity. It is

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

often recommended for skin problems such as eczema and rosacea and is frequently an ingredient in preparations for cuts, bruises and cold sores. Pomegranate seed oil is an intriguing entry into the marketplace. It is a rich source of conjugated linolenic acid (punic acid or omega-5), a known anti-carcinogen. Pomegranate seed oil is reputed to have a natural SPF and be a collagen booster. Nut butters such as shea and cocoa have been used for centuries in Africa and South America. They are valued for their emollient properties and are a popular ingredient in salves and ointments. They provide a light moisture barrier, which helps to keep the skin soft and supple. Rosehip oil’s devotees will swear that there is no better moisturizer to reduce the signs of aging skin. The most popular source of rosehips is the Japanese rose called R. rugosa; however, other varieties including R. acicularis (Alberta’s official flower) are highly valued. Rosehips have always had a significant place in natural medicine, being rich in vitamin C. Seabuckthorn oils are prized for their skin rejuvenating and healing qualities. Loaded with essential nutrients including omega-3 and omega-6 in a one to one ratio, 41 carotenoids and vitamin E, they are used internally and topically for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Seabuckthorn oils are also anti-microbial and analgesic and are extremely effective in healing many mild to serious skin problems. Their abundant carotenoids make them a natural SPF booster. While each of these botanicals makes their own unique contribution to our beauty and well being, used in combination, their synergies go beyond what each can deliver on its own. It is for this reason that you will often see them in distinctive blends in salves and ointments. Susan McLoughlin, in partnership with her late husband, pioneered the use of seabuckthorn in Canada. Educated at UBC, she is engaged in manufacturing nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals. She can be reached at smcl@shaw.ca or (250) 767-6100.

www.vistamagonline.com

Canada’s Premier Health

part 2

By Carol Crenna

If you feel that you have a demanding job, consider what it’s like to put in 12- hour days mak‑ ing decisions that affect everyone from corporation heads to the homeless and trying to allocate millions of dollars to best benefit millions of people, all while being scrutinized by your oppo‑ nents and the media. Premiers are people, too, who need to fit life in around their careers, and to make time for their health. In VISTA, four provincial heads of government disclose how they balance their lifestyle. Whereas Part 1 (May/June Issue) focused on western Canada, Part 2 features central and eastern Canadian premiers. Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty

I may be a premier, but my greatest responsibility is as a father and husband, so my most important time is with family. Terri and I have four children now in their 20s. My daughter and I ski together, and my three sons and I play golf as a foursome; they’re better than me so I’ve given up being competitive. We still go camping together though I realize it will become a challenge to get them together for family trips in the future. Last year we went to northern Ontario on a canoe trip. Terry and my daughter now refuse to go camping unless I portage a dishwasher, which I’m not prepared to do. We also rent a cottage in Quebec each summer. When I’m not in Ontario, I like to be in Quebec where we had a cottage when I was growing up. Though you can never completely shut yourself off from this job – there is always a part of your mind devoted to responsibilities and concerns – I try to be disciplined about staying in the moment, to focus on enjoying and appreciating downtime. I like to read. I’ve been reading a lot of Louis L’Amour, a western fiction writer who is a wonderful distraction from and contrast to the job. I also like to “fix things.” You name it. If it’s broken, I’ll try to fix it, even if I am preeminently unqualified to do so. I like to putter in the yard, gardening and landscaping. I enjoy house painting and recently painted the

“I’m not in bad shape. I enjoy exercising; five days a week I rotate between a rowing machine and free weights regimen at home. If I have to go anywhere to do it, I’m in trouble.”

outside; I’m good at taking orders — I might be responsible for the province, but Terri is responsible for me. I’m not in bad shape. I enjoy exercising; five days a week I rotate between a rowing machine and free weights regimen at home. If I have to go anywhere to do it, I’m in trouble because I don’t have time to get there. When I’m on the road, I bring rubber exercise bands. I watch what I eat. Terri is a fabulous cook and makes sure that we

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

eat healthily. I have a vegetarian daughter who has introduced us to no-meat meals but I still love a good hamburger. I don’t have soft drinks or coffee, and drink lots of water. My downfall is potato chips. Give me a family-size bag and I‘ll gladly wolf it down while watching a movie on a Friday night. I figure a bag a week isn’t going to hurt you. I’ve learned to be disciplined when eating meals at events; I’ve noticed over the past 19 years in politics that there has been an evolution in higher quality food served. One of my unhealthier habits is to munch a little here or there and then get home and have a meal late at night when I feel more relaxed. If I’m out I’m working, for me that means talking; I can’t eat and talk at the same time. I am getting less sleep lately – about six hours per night. Sometimes I wake up and can’t get back to sleep. Especially in a challenging time like this, I keep wondering what more I should be doing here and how I might help there; what’s coming around the corner; and how I can better prepare for challenges to find opportunities. I grew up in a family of 12. We were taught that we are at our best when we work together. If 10 children pulled in separate directions, we accomplished nothing, but if we pulled together, we felt like there were 20. We’re a close family: a brother is also a member of parliament and four of us became lawyers. My father was a university professor of romantic poetry, and after 10 kids my mother said that would be enough romance. Though he first studied business, he then decided to follow his passion. (He also wrote poetry books under his name, Dalton McGuinty.) That’s another lesson that I learned: follow your passion. I married my high school sweetheart. It’s a bit difficult at times, but my marriage is my foundation; it’s something that I invest in because we’re only as strong as our foundation. Terri and I started dating when we were 18, and after marriage had four kids in five years. I don’t pretend to be an expert since I only know my wife, but I got good advice from my mother on our wedding day: “Whatever happens, keep talking.” Terri and I are honest and open. We have to keep trying to understand each other because we’ve changed and developed, yet we have grown together. The most difficult part about being premier is time – it takes a lot; and pressure – there is a lot. And the best part? I feel that it’s a huge privilege to have the honour of serving 13 million people. My father impressed upon us to make a contribution and said that the ultimate reward in public service is found in the service itself.

Nova Scotia Premier Rodney MacDonald

In spare time, my wife Lori-Ann and I enjoy watching our son play hockey at the local arena and going for walks around our home in Cape

“The biggest health challenge that politicians face is attending many wonderful high-calorie dinners. I skip dessert. Being on the road a lot means making choices about where to stop to eat, which is difficult.”

Breton. Lori-Ann is very athletic so she especially enjoys walking – outside and on the treadmill. I enjoy having quiet time in the outdoors, both alone and with the family. This weekend my son and I went for a walk in the woods near our house, looking for animal tracks, which he loves. We also enjoy fishing together. I’m a musician – a Cape Breton fiddler and step dancer – and still enjoy doing it whenever I can. I’ve played the fiddle since age 12, and started step dancing at a young age before I began school. Music is a big part of my entire family’s lives. For example, at Christmas my grandmothers, uncles and cousins all played music together for the family. Before I got involved with politics, I often played music publicly in addition to being a school teacher. My son is now step dancing and learning to play the fiddle. I enjoy golfing and running, but I’m sporadic. I used to be very involved in sports — I played hockey, softball, badminton, track and field, and I coached several sports. I have had various injuries to prove it: a separated shoulder, lots of stitches, having cartilage removed from a knee. I now relive that part of my life through my son. My resolution is to eat healthier. I’m more of a meat and potatoes person, but my wife is a registered nurse, so she watches what I eat. The biggest health challenge that politicians face is attending many wonderful high-calorie dinners. I skip dessert. Being on the road a lot means making choices about where to stop to eat, which is difficult. I would like to get more sleep. As with any occupation, if you’re not getting enough sleep, you’re not making good decisions, and you’re not going to feel healthy. It can be a challenge,

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

but I try to keep a regular sleep schedule. My mother, a librarian, and father, a millworker, taught me about work. When I was growing up, they pushed me and my three sisters to work hard and respect others. I started working in grade eight and from then on, every day after school and every day in the summer, I went to work. The most difficult part of being premier is having a very busy schedule which means missing important occasions with my family. My son is now 11 and was one year old when I began in politics, so he is used to Dad being busy, but there are times when my family gives up a lot – having no time with father and husband. The best part is meeting people from different walks of life. I love traveling throughout Nova Scotia, and find it energizing whether I’m in the Annapolis Valley talking to a farmer, Liverpool talking to a fisherman, downtown Halifax speaking with a business person, or in Sydney talking to a local doctor. I am proud of this province. What province do I like to spend time in other than Nova Scotia? Cape Breton Island! When someone asks me where I’m going on vacation, I say that I’m going to a beautiful island with wonderful people and lots of great music, hospitality and food. I also enjoy two other islands: Prince Edward Island and Vancouver Island.

At the time of this VISTA interview, Rodney MacDonald was still Premier of Nova Scotia.

www.vistamagonline.com

Vegan Proteins: Hemp, Soy and Brown Rice By Don Gauvreau

rotein is an extremely important part of a healthy diet. In fact, the amino acids that make up protein have several major functions in the body. For instance, protein is essential for proper growth and repair of skin, hair, nails and lean muscle tissue. On top of that, protein and amino acids are also vital to maintaining your immune system. The bottom line: you need high-quality protein in your diet to sustain optimal health. You already know that the majority of complete protein sources come from animals. What do you do if you’re vegetarian or vegan? Hemp, soy and brown rice protein are three excellent vegan sources that can address your protein requirements. You can eat them whole in the seed, bean and grain form or in supplemental protein powders. Here are the unique benefits that each has to offer.

Hemp

Hemp seeds are considered the king of all plant-based proteins. Hemp protein powder is produced when whole hemp seeds are cold pressed to expel the oil. The hemp is then milled at low temperatures to produce a concentrated form of protein. Hemp is an excellent source of complete protein, especially for vegans and vegetarians. It provides a high level of essential amino acids and is relatively high in branched-chain amino acids. Hemp contains edestin and albumen proteins, which are similar in structure to the proteins naturally occurring in our bodies. Since much of hemp’s protein resembles that found in the human body, it’s very easily digested and assimilated. Hemp is also high in fibre and essential fatty acids (EFAs), and a quality source of vitamins and minerals. Hemp is one of the least allergenic protein sources available and can help boost your immune system, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and even support weight loss. It has a natural nutty flavour.

Soy

Soy is another excellent source of protein. Soy beans are considered a complete protein, which provides all the amino acids essential for human nutrition. Soy is also a rich source of calcium, iron, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids and fibre. Soy is recognized for its health-promoting and disease-

preventing properties. Soy protein intake is correlated with significant decreases in blood cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the bad stuff), and triglyceride concentrations. There is substantial evidence showing that soy can help reduce the risk of heart-related diseases. In fact, the US FDA has approved health claims on product labels, stating that soy protein helps reduce heart-related diseases. Soy protein also provides health benefits specific to women. It is rich in estrogenic isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, which are known to reduce menopause symptoms. These isoflavones may also decrease the breakdown of bones. Scientific evidence shows that soy can increase bone mineral density (BMD), slow BMD loss, and improve biochemical markers of bone turnover in peri- and postmenopausal women.

Brown rice

Brown rice is rich in minerals such as iron and magnesium, vitamins and fibre. If the protein content of brown rice is extracted without any artificial elements (such as solvents and chemicals), then the nutrients remain intact. When choosing a brown rice protein supplement make sure that the manufacturer does not use chemicals or solvents. Although brown rice is not a complete protein (meaning it does not contain all the essential amino acids), it still provides excellent health benefits, is a good alternative protein source and is the least allergenic of all protein sources in the world. It’s an alternative for those who are allergic to soy and/or milk and need additional protein in their diet. Brown rice is also for those looking to add healthy whole grains to their diet. Plant-based protein supplements allow vegans and vegetarians to get more high-quality protein in their diets. Some products provide strictly one source of protein, whereas others include a combination. Just remember that each protein source has its unique advantages, so you’d be wise to include multiple sources in your diet and reap the benefits of each. Don Gauvreau, MSc, CSCS, is recognized in the health and fitness industry as a research expert and nutrition specialist.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Why IsoProtein?

Because Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cleaner!

14 Reasons To Choose 100% IsoProtein. 1

100% natural

flavours, colours or additives calories per serving

Clean cold filtered isolated whey protein 5 Tastes better and mixes easier

High in calcium

Lactose free

No artificial sweeteners,

No bovine growth hormone or BSE

Only 110

Decreases cholesterol 10 Reduces sugar cravings 11 Improves

recovery 12 Increases lean tissue definition 13 Increases metabolism 14 Supports healthy immune function Another sensible nutrition solution brought to you by North Coast Naturals.

Look for the North Coast Naturals line of products in fine Canadian health food stores. www.NorthCoastNaturals.com

1.888.337.0127

Distributed by: Fit Foods Ltd.

www.vistamagonline.com

Pain-Free Fun in the Sun By Maureen Fontaine

ith the arrival of summer, many of us indulge in exercise more fervently, especially if it is already a part of our routine. How freeing it is to embrace fine weather activities without the encumbrances of rain or snow gear! For those not routinely inclined, participating in the annual family volleyball game or hauling the camping paraphernalia may leave you with a reminder the next day. There are muscles you didn’t even know you had! To get the most out of your summer endeavours, improve your fitness level by enhancing the way the cells and muscles behave. By increasing your cells’ receptivity, you will have more efficient delivery of hormones and nutrition to your body. By maintaining proper fluid retention in cells, your muscle tone and strength are supported. Workouts, golf games and activities can be more enjoyable with improved performance. For those who push their personal edge during summer exercise, using all available energy, muscle glycogen is depleted. This in turn burns liver glycogen, compromising your liver function. If glycogen is not replenished, the results from exercise become as elusive as a slippery bar of soap in the shower.

Pain-spasm cycle

Ever heard the saying, “No pain, no gain”? There’s a difference between good pain and not-so-good pain. Human beings seem willing to endure a certain degree of discomfort; therefore, tissue damage from exercise must sometimes be extensive in order for us to stop. Tissue damage and inflammation at any level require attention, which averts cumulative repercussions including premature aging of cells. Preparing the body not only assists with recuperation, it also lessens the potential of acute injury. In the case of acute pain, endorphins are released, which are the body’s natural pain blockers. The conventional approach uses drugs that interrupt the pain-spasm cycle for quick relief. To quote Deane Juhan, in the book Job’s Body, “The only danger then is to be sure that the side-effects of the cure do not conspire to generate vicious circles of their own.” If the primary function of pain is to alert the central nervous system to the damage being done, it doesn’t make sense to have little concept of the extent of the damage until some time after if covering it with medications. Injury itself becomes more complex when pain is intensified with the sustained contraction of muscles. These muscles react to protect the injured area by reducing blood flow and oxygen. Acceleration of pain is partly due to the lactic acid buildup and retention in the constricted tissue. Thus the pain-spasm cycle is born and deprives the site of oxygen, and impairs metabolism and waste removal which contributes to waste buildup over time. All of these scenarios advance tissue breakdown, give rise to infection, and begin weakening the entire system. It’s best to

interrupt these self-perpetuating cycles, relieve the pain and regenerate tissue damage from the injury.

Prepare and repair

The enthusiastic summer athlete is familiar with muscle fatigue, which results in the inability of the muscle to contract efficiently. Some sports require a surge of energy for short duration, and others require more sustained, less vigorous efforts. For the more extreme individual, such as a marathoner, endurance rather than power is required. Either way, an inefficient system can create a buildup of lactic acid. Many experts devote their careers to understanding exercise in relation to human biology and chemistry and have learned that it is of utmost importance to both prepare the tissue prior to exertion and repair the tissue following exercise.

Supplementation

The objective when choosing nutritional support to prepare and repair tissue should be to affect the cells that have been damaged or could be damaged by chronic inflammation, injury, surgery or over-training. In aging cells, too, a decrease in cell stability leads to the release of compounds that promote damage and inflammation. If eliminated, recovery increases, healing improves and cells remain young. Proper cell behaviour is accomplished with supplements such as MSM, glucosamine hydrochloride and antioxidants. They help strengthen connective photo: ranplette tissue and make cells more receptive to hormones. In addition, compounds such as proanthocyanidins, EGCG, theaflavin and resveratrol, found in grapes and green tea, are known for their ability to halt tissue damage and inflammation. Reinforcing the structure of cells stops the damage that initiates inflammation and spasms. Stabilizing collagen reinforces the strength and elasticity of connective tissues such as cartilage, ligaments, tendons, fascia, bone, blood vessel walls and skin. Nutritional formulas can prevent histamine, serine proteases, prostaglandins and leukotrienes that promote inflammation; and they can improve the surface tissue of the digestive, respiratory and urinary tracts. The entire body is supported and, in turn, supports your efforts to live an active lifestyle. This means that you can experience the freedom to move pain-free this summer! Whether you are a seasoned athlete or simply enjoying fun in the sun, make an effort to ensure your tissue and muscles are in tiptop shape. By priming cells with essential nutrients, recuperation time is significantly diminished, tissue damage is halted, and performance is naturally enhanced. Maureen Fontaine, B. Ed, is a clinical nutritionist, master herbalist, and diet and wellness consultant.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Purica Steel

Live Pain Free

Stainless Flask stainless steel vacuum flask for hot & cold beverages

*NNVOF Y®

t #BDL 1BJO t /FDL 1BJO t 'PPU 1BJO t )JQ 1BJO t ,OFF 1BJO t 4IPVMEFS 1BJO t 8SJTU 1BJO t 0WFSUSBJOJOH t *OKVSZ 3FIBC t 4VSHFSZ 3FIBC

Dog and Owner Pain Free RECOVERY® greatly benefited both my dog and me. No pain and more energy. Thank you RECOVERY®! Susan Schultz, Langley, BC

3UԦHFW <RXUVHOI serious immune support with Nutricol®

3FE 3FJTIJ (QHUJ\ 0HGLFLQH most bioactive compound …assured!

'JCFSMJDJPVT Tastes Great !

fiber you can eat right off the spoon

3FDPWFSZ® SA Award Winning

1.877.746.9397

Purica.com

healthy pain free pets

www.vistamagonline.com

Anti-Aging Skincare By Shelly Lynn Nellis

Cutting through the cosmetic industry hype, many women are discovering that our grand‑ mothers knew best what to put on their face to protect and prolong their youth. Searching the kitchen for natural ingredients – foods, herbs, clean water, seed oil – was just as ef‑ fective then as million dollar research is today to find the latest exfoliant or wrinkle reducer.

eyond the usual skin typing (oily, T-zone, dry), many beauty experts are finding that what causes these conditions in the first place is more important. For example, Barbara Close, in her book Pure Skin: Organic Beauty Basics talks about skin types in terms of hormone reactive, environment reactive, and stress reactive to better decipher our skin issues. She says that problems such as dry skin and rosacea are reflections of deeper imbalances, whether they are emotional or physical. “What your skin really wants is a dose of common sense and TLC, not product overload and complicated beauty regimens.” That means cleansing but not stripping the skin, moisturizing but not clogging pores with chemical ingredients, stimulating to the lymphatic system and facial muscles but not heavy-handed manipulating that can damage delicate skin. All skin is thirsty, and needs moisture as much as it does the nutrients from food. In addition to water, taken internally and splashed on the face (cool in the morning, warm in the evening, not cold or hot), the essential oils that you eat are also very effective applied to the face, even with an oily complexion. These oils don’t cause acne and can penetrate into the skin better than creams because they have a smaller molecular structure. Avoid commercial face oils that contain base oils extracted using a synthetic solvent such as hexane, and stick to cold-pressed seed and nut oils, especially borage and evening primrose oil. A few drops will do. Overexposure to sun may be the most dramatic cause of aging and skin discolouration, but the harmful chemicals that go into protective UV creams are also a concern. A natural full spectrum sun block such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide (yes, the white stuff surfers use) will block out UVA and UVB rays by acting as a physical barrier. They may be harder to rub in than chemicals such as parasol, but they are less irritating and longer lasting. The essence of beauty lies within our feelings — when we feel good, we look good, and when we look good, we feel good. But caring for ourselves with natural, time-honoured products, both internally and externally, will also bring its rewards.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Your very own "non surgical face-lift in a box!" TM

OxyLift is a handheld device that uses high frequency technology. This hightly advanced device has been condensed in size, but not in results. OxyLift stimulates TM

the skin cells to produce collagen and restores vitality to your skin. It tightens, brightens and purifies in just 3 minutes a day.

Independent Clinical Studies Showed:

Before

After

Before

After

78 % Improvement in 5 days for acne skin conditions 56 % Decrease in pore size within 14 days 33 % Increase of collagen production in 30 days 43 % Decrease in puffy eyes (due to fluid retention) 48 % Reduction in wrinkle depth (12 weeks) 92 % of subjects experienced immediate lift response

OxyLift

TESTIMONIAL:

is LESS than the price of 2 facials.

"I love my OxyLiftâ&#x201E;˘! It gives my skin a beautiful natural glow. I'm not someone who likes wearing make-up, and now that my skin looks so healthy and vibrant, I don't even have to.

$179.99

I also like that the OxyLiftâ&#x201E;˘ is fast and easy to use. It's the last thing I do at night and makes me feel like I'm pampering myself. My skin is healthier than ever before!" - Gail A.

90 Day Money Back Guarantee Less shipping & handling

To Order Call

1-866-612-4145 www.oxyliftcanada.com

Improve kidney, urinary and prostate health naturally

Achieve Better Athletic Performance part 2 By Andrea Bartels and Joelle Lyew

n order to build and maintain muscle mass, strength and endurance for your best physical performance, your body needs to get enough rest between workouts to rebuild. It also requires adequate amounts of specific nutrients needed for these purposes. Some of the nutrients and phytochemicals that can be used to support muscle growth include the following.

L-glutamine

Prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is implicated as a cause of prostate enlargement.

Supports the bladder and increases urine flow.

L-glutamine is an amino acid that is so important to metabolic processes that the body knows how to manufacture the nutrient itself. However, in individuals with very active lifestyles, the requirements of L-glutamine are higher in order to fuel muscle growth, prevent lactic-acid build-up, and provide immune system support. L-glutamine comprises about 60 percent of the amino acids in your skeletal muscle and is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid. Essential to muscle growth, it increases blood concentrations of glutamate and arginine which are linked to muscle-strengthening growth hormone. However, during intense physical exercise or illness, L-glutamine is used up rapidly. In fact, concentrations of glutamine within the muscle may fall by at least 50 percent during these times which can result in reduced strength and endurance. Studies show that inadequate amounts of glutamine can also suppress the immune system and decrease wound healing and infection-fighting abilities. Deficiency also interferes with the formation of a vital antioxidant, glutathione peroxidase, for which athletes have increased needs in order to protect cells from free radical damage that may result from strenuous activity. For these reasons, over-training makes athletes more vulnerable to infections. However, human studies show that blood levels of glutathione may increase by about 20 percent after taking 5 to 15 grams of glutamine daily.

R-Alpha lipoic acid

Efficient use of glucose by the body is vital to muscle gain because glucose â&#x20AC;&#x201C;the basic sugar of which all carbohydrate foods are made â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is the fuel preferred by muscle cells. Unfortunately, high-carb snacking habits may cause cells to become resistant to receiving glucose. The nutrient alpha lipoic acid (ALA) plays a role in activating cell receptors to accept much needed glucose, lowering blood glucose to safe levels. Studies show that supplementary forms of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) improve glucose transport across cell membranes, increasing the efficiency of glucose metabolism and entry of glucose into muscle tissue. In addition, the natural R-form of alpha lipoic acid is a powerful fat-soluble and water-soluble antioxidant, protecting red blood cells and fatty acids from oxidative damage caused by intense training and allowing shorter muscle recovery time.

www.oapharma.com/ 1-800-651-3172 22

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

photo: ranplette

Bitter melon

The body’s blood sugar levels drop when cells’ receptors respond to the hormone insulin, which functions like a taxi driver for glucose. Efficient delivery of glucose, the basic component of carbohydrates, to muscle cells enables muscle growth by triggering another hormone called insulin-likegrowth factor (IGF). For these reasons, it’s best to maximize the efficiency of this process during and after exercise. Specific natural blood-sugar lowering phytochemicals are in the tropical, gourd-like fruit, bitter melon. Historically used for this purpose, the popular folk remedy contains charantin, a hypoglycemic agent, and the insulin-like polypeptide-P.

Electrolytes

Through heavy perspiration, strenuous exercisers lose a significant quantity of electrolytes – electrically charged, ionized minerals. Consisting of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, adequate electrolyte replacement prevents muscle cramping and twitching, nausea, headache and irregular heart beat. Electrolytes preserve healthy nerve, heart and muscle function. They maintain and carry electrical impulses across cell membranes from one cell to another as a form of communication between muscle cells and between nerve cells. Without them, performance is severely compromised, especially in high heat conditions and/or during intense exercise. When choosing a natural health supplement for performance and recovery, look for products that contain glutamine for muscle maintenance, insulin-sensitizing nutrients like R-alpha lipoic acid, and electrolytes such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, calcium citrate and magnesium citrate to replenish those lost naturally during activity. Your performance depends on adequate nutrition! Andrea Bartels, B.A., CNP, RNCP, is an Ottawa-based registered nutritional consultant practitioner who has over 10 years of experience. She has worked with practitioners such as chiropractors, homeopaths, massage therapists, medical doctors, pharmacists and biochemists, all within clinical and retail environments. She also teaches at The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in Ottawa, Ontario. Joelle Lyew, MSc., earned her honours bachelor of science degree at the University of Toronto and a master’s degree in botany specializing in cell biology of plant structure and function and evolutionary plant morphology. She is an accomplished lab researcher and has published articles in publications including the American Journal of Botany.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Recipe for Health

www.vistamagonline.com

Summer Pesto Patties By Tracy Kaye Holly

inally, summer is here and the barbeque is at the top of the list for meal preparations. Burger patties are a favourite for any summer gathering. I like to add pesto sauce to minced buffalo, ground turkey or extra lean beef. You need not add anything else to the mixture, just meat and pesto sauce and, voila!, you’ve got a winning summer burger. Pesto comes from the Italian word pestare that means to pound or to bruise. The traditional style of making pesto, and still the preferred method, is with a mortar and pestle. Its main ingredients are basil, garlic, oil, pine nuts and parmesan cheese.The Greeks called basil the “royal herb.” Fresh basil has a wonderful pungent aroma and an incredible flavour that is a cross between licorice and cloves.

Herbalists recommend basil for nausea and motion sickness because of basil’s antispasmodic properties. Basil’s strong taste promotes the production of saliva, which contains enzymes that initiate the digestive process. Basil has a powerful essential oil that contains methyl chavicol. Fresh basil contains folic acid, and dried basil is a good source of potassium, iron and calcium. Dried basil is good for the respiratory system and can be used to treat nose and throat infections. Basil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, explaining its reputation as a folk remedy for the treatment of arthritis. In a manner similar to the way aspirin works, the natural oil in basil called eugenol blocks an enzyme in the body called cyclooxygenase. This enzyme nor-

mally facilitates swelling. Pine nuts are nature’s only source of pinoleic acid, which stimulates hormones that diminish appetite. Pine nuts have the highest concentration of oleic acid. This is a monounsaturated fat that aids the liver in the elimination of harmful triglycerides from the body. Pine nuts are packed with 3 milligrams of iron per one ounce serving. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen throughout the body. Pine nuts are also rich in magnesium which is known to alleviate muscle cramps, tension and fatigue. If you’re in a hurry and have no time to make your own pesto sauce from scratch, there is a wide variety of bottled pesto in the supermarket. Be sure to read the labels carefully to find the highest quality ingredients without preservatives or sugar.

Pesto Sauce (one cup) 4 cloves garlic peeled and chopped 2 cups fresh basil leaves washed, dried with stems removed 3 tablespoons pine nuts Dash of sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Mince the garlic in a food processor. Next, add basil leaves, pine nuts, and salt and pepper to the bowl. While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until all ingredients are pureed. You can also use a blender. Add Parmesan cheese and mix it into the rest of the mixture. If the pesto is too thick, add a touch of water or olive oil. Cover and refrigerate until you are ready to use it. This should keep for two to three days in the fridge, but also freezes well. Add one cup of pesto sauce to one pound ground meat, roll and press into burger patties. You can double or triple this recipe if needed. You can also make meatballs with this recipe and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Leftover patties are delicious snacks any time of the day, hot or cold. Meatballs are also great to take along for a summer picnic!

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Tracy Holly is a health and fitness enthusiast and an advocate of alternative natural medicine and sports nutrition products. She works as a fitness and lifestyle coach and is a public relations officer for Holly Health Services. Tracy is the author of The Athlete’s Cookbook.

Bringing Nature Home: Robert Bateman By Carol Crenna

onsummate Canadian artist Robert Bateman has been painting and protecting wildlife for 65 years. His signature realistic style is showcased in international galleries and the homes of Prince Philip and Prince Charles, and has garnered him the Order of Canada and 11 honorary doctorate degrees. Yet his love of art is equaled by his love of nature, and as an internationally respected environmentalist and naturalist, Robert lives by his convictions. VISTA speaks with him about his health, the environment and art. VISTA: You started painting as a young child. Robert: All children paint, but when they usually stop, I didn’t. By the time I was 16, I had painted every hawk and owl in North America. After being an impressionist, Cubist, and an abstract expressionist, I was influenced by realistic artists including Andrew Wyeth in the late 50s and I haven’t changed my style since. It doesn’t take more skill to paint hundreds of strokes in realism rather than one right stroke in more abstract painting, but it takes more patience. VISTA: You’ve also been lecturing about nature for years.

Robert: I never thought that I would support myself with art — everyone in the Group of Seven had day jobs. I became a geography teacher so that I could get free field trips into the wilderness to paint. At the same time, I was an ardent naturalist, learning from experienced naturalists and studying field guides, and I taught at the Royal Ontario Museum. When teaching others about nature, the details of each plant or animal are important. VISTA: Why are wildlife names important? Robert: One of the great tragedies in our civilization is that people don’t know the names of their neighbours – plant and animal species that share their neighbourhood. If you don’t know the names, you don’t care about them and can’t protect biodiversity. VISTA: You mean it’s like making a friend — when you know their name, rather than just recognizing them when you pass by, you care more? Robert: You begin paying more attention to what you’re seeing. You think, “What happened to all of the olive-sided flycatchers that I’d see each year at the pond?” Terrible losses occur if

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

you don’t pay attention to what‘s happening to the canaries in the coal mine. I am doing what I can to alter that. Too many people feel the way that Ronald Reagan did when he said, “You’ve seen one tree, you’ve seen them all.” VISTA: You have a very healthy diet. Robert: We eat wild fish, following the Sierra Club and Ocean Wise lists, and sometimes eat organic, free range chicken and eggs. We buy locally from markets on Salt Spring Island where we live, and grow our own food. It’s a dilemma considering the distance food travels — my wife Birgit went through agony recently buying sparkling water. Since we don’t like products in plastic, she found the closest glass bottled brand from Quebec. We stopped eating pumpkin seeds, which are from China, and switched to sunflower seeds grown in Saskatchewan. Birgit is the household conscience and has been using fabric bags and bringing her own mug to coffee shops for 25 years. VISTA: You’ve had a health concern. Robert: I had a cancerous tumour on the outside of my baby finger on my right hand, the hand I paint with. I’ve had a lifetime of covering my

hands with paint and other chemicals and I sign a lot of prints on chemical paper. Two younger colleagues – oil painters – died from strange forms of blood cancer. The tumour was removed and hadn’t spread to other areas. I think like I am cured so I don’t worry about it, but I act like I still have it, continuing to increase my health through diet, exercise and a healthier home. VISTA: How is your home healthier? Robert: We built a new house with less offgassing in wood and other surfaces, no fluorescent lights, and fewer electromagnetic frequency waves than our other house on Salt Spring had, which faced electric towers on nearby islands. We are very conscious of EMFs, limiting use of electrical devices in our daily living. VISTA: In 2005 you volunteered for a medical assessment that detected amounts of toxins in your body. The assessment found 32 carcinogens, 19 hormone disruptors, 16 respiratory toxins and 42 reproductive toxicants.

ing on by reading news and watching current affairs programmes. And pay for it by not being so cheap. Most of us don’t want to pay more for organic vegetables grown close to home, or for environmentally friendly electricity. For the last 10 years my talks have focused on three big bad F’s – industrial fishing, industrial farming and industrial forestry -- which are destructive to nature. VISTA: Is there a way out? Robert: Former chief economist with CIBC, Jeff Rubin, who wrote Why the World is About to Get a Whole Lot Smaller, says the world will completely change when oil is $100 a barrel. When that happens, local economies will be more viable than global economies because it won’t make financial sense to ship tankers to North America. That means we will have to change our diet and how we live. There will be many more jobs in farming and local manufacturing.

Robert: They found that mercury and lead were high in my body, which are not a danger unless I am young or still want to reproduce. VISTA: How do you manage your worries? Robert: I managed my fear well during the cancer procedures – doctors considered amputating my finger – by meditating, and I think about “the Now,” focusing only on what’s happening at exactly this moment. I don’t worry about the state of the world, but take action on those things that I can change, knowing what I can’t. VISTA: You have five environmentally-minded children!

Robert: Art is challenging and frustrating but I don’t linger in it. I work on five paintings at a time so if I’m frustrated I put one down and begin another. A muse comes down from Mount Olympus and changes my attitude, cheering me up – it’s an inner intuition, suddenly giving a breakthrough to be able to move ahead.

Robert: Yes. My lectures now focus on the fact that kids don’t play outside enough. Young people spent time outside for hundreds of thousands of years until 15 years ago. The book Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Kids from Nature Deficit Disorder quotes a 10 year old kid saying, ”I like to play indoors because that’s where the electric outlets are.” It cites recent research proving that if kids play outdoors, not organized sports but unsupervised, climbing trees and building forts, they have less obesity, attention deficit disorder, suicide, alcohol abuse and bullying, and have higher marks. There are movements in progress to redesign areas of cities to have wilderness, not parks, for kids to play on their own.

Robert: I take two walks up hills each day, and bike ride each morning. I also have an exercise bike to increase my heart rate. My wife and I have been going to a personal trainer for weights and balance twice a week for 10 years. My balance has improved tremendously and the weights decrease my age. I only feel 49, not 79. VISTA: What are your philosophies for saving the environment? Robert: We all know what to do: pay attention and pay for it. Pay attention to what is go-

VISTA: How can we change kids’ mindsets today? Robert: It should be mandatory that every child in junior high and high school spend a week in the wilderness every year. As a teacher, when we took groups to Algonquin Park, we saw “idiot yahoo kids” at the beginning of the trip be transformed by nature into caring human beings. In school, kids learn more about the problems of the Amazon Rainforest than about the wooded area at the end of their street – it’s not more courses; its experience. VISTA: You’re helping to launch Victoria’s Royal Roads University Robert Bateman Art and Environmental Education Centre that will feature your art, photos, and a “learning laboratory for nature” within an eco-friendly building.

VISTA: You say that painting for you isn’t relaxing; it’s work.

VISTA: Do you exercise?

on it from them. Now those kids are parents who don’t teach their children family values because they didn’t know them, and expose them to violent TV, video games and internet predators but are afraid to let them go outside.

VISTA: What about dangers? Robert: We need adult supervision inside, not outside the house. TVs and computers are dangerous babysitters. In talks I gave in the 60s, I said that kids then hadn’t seen real family life other than TV shows so based their knowledge

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Robert: It will be an esthetically beautiful place for small groups from business executives to visitors from China to spend a week becoming immersed in environmental practices. VISTA: Your home is environmentally friendly. Robert: Though we had solar and wind power in our other home, this one has geothermal heating. Our house is on an acreage that has lovely views of a little 1930s farmhouse, and lake that we own half of and Ducks Unlimited owns the other half. We always have our breakfast in bed, sitting side by side gazing out at the view. VISTA: What more would you like to accomplish? Robert: I would like to follow the practices advocated in your magazine so that I may continue to be healthy for a long time. When you get to be my age, you begin to count how many Mays you have left – the best time of year for flowers and birds in North America. Next May I’m going to Point Pelee National Park on Lake Erie to watch the migration, joining Margaret Atwood for a “bird-a-thon.”

Beautiful From the Outside In? By Sophia Stewart

our skin is your connection between yourself and the outside world and, therefore, greatly reflects how you relate to the world and how the world sees you. How do you achieve skin that accurately reflects all of your inner beauty? By nurturing it and giving it what it needs. Your skin condition is influenced by hormonal changes, exposure to sun, wind and pollution, rough treatment, lack of sleep and poor diet. Your skin is your body’s “protective coating,” so some of these factors are unavoidable. But you can greatly influence the health of your skin just as you can all of the organs that it protects beneath it. Moisturizing and protecting your outer layer is sometimes all that you can do to avoid hazards of daily life. Consider more natural routes to a

vibrant complexion through skincare that uses simple plant-based ingredients backed by scientific research. Squalane: In the surface of healthy skin, squalane and squalene are contained in the sebum, the skin’s protective coating. But secretion of sebum reaches its peak between the ages of 15 and18 and begins decreasing after 25 due to age and lifestyle factors such as excessive washing. To regain some of the lost squalane, vegetable-based (rather than shark-based) sources are used in some of the best beauty formulas. Squalane has been shown to restore flexibility by preventing water loss from the skin’s surface. It increases absorption of other ingredients so products can penetrate deep into the skin, and

has also been shown to help sun damage, dark spots, keratinized elbows, and scratches. Rosehip oil: Rosehip seed oil is high in both linoleic and linolenic essential fatty acids, which are good both internally and externally. They help to reduce the size of the skin’s pores and penetrate the skin’s upper layers very quickly, making rosehip oil a superb moisturizer. Due to its vitamin A content, it is also good for inflammation such as blemishes, acne and tissue damaged by burns. It supports the “keratin migration cycle” of the skin that is responsible for the natural regeneration of skin cells. After using rosehip oil, studies have shown greater cell renewal, which increased collagen and elastin that make the skin look smoother and firmer.

Maori Miracle

“The Most Effective Arthritis Remedy Ever” Active Ingredients: GlycoMarine • Myristin® • Kolla2® Hyaluronic Acid & White Willow Bark Extract TM

Go Beyond Glucosamine, Chondroitin & MSM

Let Maori Miracle® bring your joints fully back to health. www.therapeutx.info

www.vistamagonline.com

FEAR AGING? Micro Serré is your only solution!

First Canadian breakthrough using low density rice peptides

Soy protein: Soy is rich in amino acids and peptides, which provide antioxidants to the skin along with protection from UV rays. Soy protein creates a “film” that seals in moisture and protects the skin, helping to minimize roughness and chapping of skin. It also reduces cholesterol under the skin, and may further protect from harmful environmental toxins. A study published in the journal Cancer Research showed that mice with the soy protein called lunasin applied to their skin had significantly lower rates of skin cancer after exposure to carcinogens – 80 percent reduced incidence – than mice without the treatment. Other natural ingredients may include rice peptide, a protein that stimulates the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, which may reduce fine lines and increase skin cell regeneration. Green tea is sometimes used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may improve wrinkles and sagging. You’ve heard that cucumber slices decrease puffiness around the eyes; its extract is used to calm and tighten the skin, and as an anti-inflammatory. Silica, which occurs naturally in the skin but is also derived from bamboo, maintains moisture. Unprocessed seed oils such as sunflower oil, an emollient, and grape seed oil, which may help repair damage including scars in addition to moisturizing, are also added to skincare. Although many different treatments and products can assist in improving the look of your skin, the first step is to protect it by having a healthy lifestyle, and by avoiding chemicals, whether they are in the air, in your food or in skincare products themselves.

Diminish Wrinkles Stimulate Collagen Levels Reduce Puffy Eyes & Dark Circles Trim Face Line Tighten Saggy Skin & Turkey Neck Paraben Free

1-866-430-5666 www.vivahealth.ca Proudly Canadian

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Available at your local health food stores

www.vistamagonline.com

Get the Rest You Deserve

Reduce Stress & Pain Naturally A good night’s sleep free from stress, aches & pains is important in helping your body recover from the days’ wear and tear. For more than 60 years Hyland’s Calms Forté has been nature’s answer to a good night’s sleep. Relieving stress, tension and occasional sleeplessness. Hyland’s Leg Cramps with Quinine will soothe the symptoms of cramps in legs and lower back, while Hyland’s Restful Legs helps to calm agitated legs so you get the rest you deserve.

Making Sense of Menopause By Lorna Vanderhaeghe

Women everywhere are talking about meno‑ pause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Is it safe or isn’t it? That depends on who you ask, what studies you read, and what media reports you’re exposed to. Earlier this year, women – and even doctors – became more confused about HRT when the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) issued a press release saying HRT is safe and effective if women start taking it early in menopause and for less than five years.

his goes against the advice millions of women in North America have been getting since the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) study, which tested the effects of estrogen and progestin on 16,608 women and was halted in 2002, before the study was finished, due to findings that HRT increased risk of invasive breast cancers and also put women at higher risk of blood clots, stroke and heart disease. Since then, many doctors stopped prescribing HRT and prescriptions declined significantly. Now the SOGC is telling doctors not to be afraid to prescribe HRT. After reviewing new research and reanalyzing the WHI data, the SOGC panel determined that “hormone therapy used early in menopause does not increase the risk of coronary artery disease and used for five years or less has little appreciable effect on breast cancer risk.” But this doesn’t mean HRT should all of a sudden be considered safe for women to use to treat menopause symptoms, even for younger women to use for a short time. Another study released in December, 2008, at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium found that younger women in their 50s using HRT do have an increased risk of breast cancer. This research tracked 15,387 of the 16,608 women who participated in the WHI study through to July 2005, monitoring the number of breast cancer cases as they occurred. They found that risk rose at the start of hormone use, peaked when the study ended, then fell as nearly all of the women stopped using hormones. At the peak, they found the breast cancer risk to be twice that of those not taking HRT. Even those women who took HRT for just a few years had a higher risk of breast cancer. And the study showed that women taking HRT for five years had double the risk of breast cancer.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

ask lorna

Questions & Answers with Canada’s Leading Women’s Natural Health Care Expert,

Lorna Vanderhaeghe

Over 80% of Women Can Ease Menopause Symptoms Without Taking Hormones Q: I’m in menopause and suffer terribly from hot flashes and night sweats. I’m scared to take hormone replacement therapy and bioidentical hormones. What do you recommend I try?

Q A

photo: ranplette

Obviously, more research is needed on HRT, and women should err on the side of caution and opt for lifestyle changes and eating the right foods and nutrients to help cope with menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and anxiety. The hormonal fluctuations that accompany this transition in every woman’s life are unfortunately exacerbated by poor liver, adrenal and thyroid function. So complex is the female endocrine (hormone) system that several factors including improving your diet, dealing with stress, addressing underlying thyroid issues and supporting a tired liver may be required to help ease menopause and improve overall health. Many women can experience complete relief from menopausal symptoms by using herbs, nutrients, exercise and diet changes. Others will need low-dose, short-term bioidentical (non-synthetic) hormone treatment, as determined by a qualified health professional and compounded by a compounding pharmacy. Non-toxic alternatives to HRT exist and have been embraced in Europe. Herbs including black cohosh, dong quai and chasteberry have long histories of traditional use and solid research supporting their therapeutic effects. Look for natural menopausal formulas that have passed Health Canada’s approval process for safety and efficacy. No one should feel tired, worn down, brain-fogged or listless. Menopause is your time to focus on yourself. Eat right, exercise and start new activities that you didn’t have time for when your children were young or your career was in full swing. Lorna Vanderhaeghe is a women’s health expert and author of Sexy Hormones and No More HRT: Menopause Treat the Cause. Visit her website at www.hormonehelp.com.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

A: Women should be concerned with the side effects of synthetic HRT. The Women’s Health Initiative Study was halted in 2002 due to findings that synthetic HRT increased women’s risk of invasive breast cancers and also put women at risk of blood clots, stroke and heart disease. More recent studies have shown that the longer you take HRT, the greater the risk of breast cancer, and after five years’ use, the risk doubles annually. Younger women in their fifties were also shown to be at risk, despite what some doctors will tell you. HRT has also been linked to dementia, so as far as I’m concerned, it’s not worth the risk, especially when there are other options. European doctors have been recommending herbal solutions for menopause symptoms for decades and the research is very clear – they are safe and just as effective in 80 per cent of users. I recommend you try MenoSense®, an outstanding menopause formula that halts hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, irritability, nervousness and more. MenoSense has been approved by Health Canada for its safety and efficacy, so you know you can trust the product. It contains five ingredients that work together to balance your hormones naturally—dong quai, chasteberry (vitex), black cohosh, gamma-oryzanol and hesperidin. Black cohosh is the most researched herb for the treatment of menopause symptoms and replacement for standard hormone replacement therapy. It’s also been researched in women with estrogen-dominant breast cancer and found to be safe. Together with the other four ingredients, this formula really works! You can read more about MenoSense® at www.hormonehelp.com

www.vistamagonline.com

Too Hot to Handle: Hyperthermia By Dr Claude Gallant

ummer is the season when many of us vacation and spend time with family and friends at the beach, boating, going for walks, and picnicking in the park. Every summer, in many regions of Canada, there is a deadly heat wave that lingers for days. Increasingly, we receive smog alerts and health cautions for the young, elderly, those with respiratory problems, and pets during extremely hot periods. Thus, it is important that we protect ourselves and our family from the dangers of extreme heat. The human body has the ability to regulate its core temperature at around 37°Celcius with the help of the hypothalamus, your “internal thermostat” in your brain, which sends and receives signals from your body (spinal cord, muscles, skin, glands, and blood). Sweating is the most efficient mechanism to cool the body down. In extremely hot, humid weather, sweating is less effective because it doesn’t evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat. There are also several factors that can hinder your body’s ability to regulate its own temperature, making it harder to cool down:

• • • • • • • • • •

Age - elderly (65 years or older), and young children (0 to 4 years old) If you are overweight or obese If you have a fever, sunburn or are dehydrated If you have a heart, lung or kidney condition Taking certain prescription medications If you have a mental illness (preventing signals reaching your hypothalamus) Poor circulation Sweat glands that are not functional Drinking alcoholic beverages When your body starts to warm up, it will release the extra heat by pumping more blood to the skin, giving you a rosy, flushed appearance. For our cooling system to function properly, we need enough water and electrolytes to maintain sufficient blood and fluids. Even mild dehydration (1 to 2 percent water loss) can impair your body’s ability to effectively cool down.

Travel Insurance

The Most Effective Immune Fortifying Formula Ever

Ah-Choo® with Fovinal® Fights Viruses & Bacteria Enjoy your holiday

TherapeutxTM • we make life better www.therapeutx.info 32

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

How Green Are You Inside?

Feel Clean Fresh & Energized Naturally canadian photo

Be aware of the indicators that you have become dehydrated! Heat cramps, characterized by painful tightening of muscles in your stomach, arms and legs, are the first sign that your body is too hot and needs to cool down. Find a cool place to rest, drink water, and massage the area to encourage circulation. Heat edema is when your feet and ankles swell because your body is too hot. The best way to alleviate the problem is to literally put your feet up and relax, preferably in a cool place. Heat syncope is a sudden dizzy feeling when you are physically active in hot weather. Listen to this warning since it is a sign that your body needs to recuperate and get out of the heat. Try taking a cool shower. Heat exhaustion is more severe than dehydration. It can develop after prolonged exposure to high temperatures or excessive exercise and inadequate drinking. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, tiredness, muscle cramps, weakness, headaches, dizziness and fainting. Left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke. Heat stroke (also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition where your body’s ability to regulate your core temperature fails. Warning signs include extreme fever (up to 106°Fahrenheit), hot dry skin, rapid pulse, shallow breathing, headaches, confusion and possible loss of consciousness. High core temperatures can damage the internal organs, especially the brain. People with heat stroke stop sweating due to lack of fluids and their body’s inability to properly communicate with their hypothalamus. This is a serious condition and medical attention should be sought immedi-

ately. Hundreds of people die of heat stroke every year! Taking simple precautions in extremely hot weather will protect you. During very hot days, limit the time spent outside. If you have to be outside, make sure you drink lots of water and rest often. Try to limit your activity to morning and evening hours when the sun isn’t at its peak. Drink water! Don’t wait until you are thirsty. However, don’t drink really cold liquids because they can cause cramping. Limit alcohol and coffee (dehydrating). Dress appropriately in cool, loose-fitting clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. If you don’t have air conditioning, ensure your house is well ventilated. Close blinds during the day and open windows at night. Try to create cross-ventilation by opening windows at opposite ends of a room. Barbecue rather than using your stove. Take a cool shower or sponge bath. Spend time in public places with air conditioning — take in a movie, go to a library or shopping mall.Never leave infants, children or pets in a vehicle, even for short periods. Even with the windows open, a vehicle can quickly reach deadly temperatures. Periodically monitor people you know who are at risk. The elderly and incapacitated are most at risk since their mobility is limited. Pace yourself. Don’t over-exert yourself or engage in strenuous activity. During extremely hot weather, it is better to miss your morning workout than to risk your health. Get out and enjoy your summer! Remember, a little common sense goes a long way.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

www.PureleNatural.com 1-800-887-6009

Searching for a Younger Body Hyland’s 4 Kids... Let Hyland’s help Care for your Family with these Natural Medicines just 4 Kids ~ Hyland’s Calms Forté 4 Kids helps to relieve restlessness, irritability, travel insomnia and night terrors. ~ Hyland’s Complete Flu 4 Kids is nature’s answer for fast relief of flu syptoms. ~ Hyland’s Sniffles ‘n Sneezes 4 Kids is a natural homeopathic medicine offering relief from the uncomfortable symtoms of the common cold. ~ Pseudoephedrine and acetaminophen free. ~ Quick dissolve tablets. ~ No side effects or contra-indications.

By Alain Prud’homme

Many people wish that a fountain of youth pill will be disovered to keep you from expe‑ riencing aging. Until then, your search for a younger body doesn’t have to end at the latest medi-spa promoting lipo-sculpture and hip re‑ placements-to-go. Scientists continue to make discoveries about how best to keep your body youthful and even reverse the aging process in non-invasive ways.

ne denominator of countless research is that being aware of the changes affecting your body as you grow older – both internally and externally – is crucial. You need to know how to prevent problems occurring and how to respond to them should they surface. What are ways to maintain youthfulness without undergoing medical procedures? You know them. Feeding your body a diet of whole fresh foods to improve everything from cognitive function to skin tone, drinking plenty of water to clean out wastes and toxins which speed aging, getting eight hours of beauty sleep, and exercising daily to relieve stress and increase mobility will go a long way to keep your body looking and feeling 35. Working beneath the surface, one of the best ways to age-proof your body is to restore the building blocks that create it. Your body ages because changes occur in cells which affect their proper functioning. Eventually cells die as a normal part of processes; either they don’t divide like they should or they’re damaged by harmful substances in the environment or within the body. Whether the body can efficiently rebuild and repair itself and create new cells is dependent upon its ability to build different types of

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

www.vistamagonline.com

“Your body manufactures its own collagen every day, but since production diminishes with age, the available supply quickly becomes less than enough. Deterioration of the body gradually follows.” protein. This process requires collagen, which is a construction worker in the body’s building (and rebuilding) project. Therefore to remain youthful you need to protect your collagen. Collagen is both the material and the glue that holds your body – skin, bone, muscles, cartilage and tendons – together, found in blood vessels, joints, hair and all connective tissue. Any time the body has to build new cells, such as in the healing process, collagen is needed. As you age, you begin to lose the collagen that is present in your skin, which is why the skin begins to sag and wrinkle, but this is just the most visible sign of depleted collagen. Your body manufactures its own collagen every day, but since production diminishes with age, the available supply quickly becomes less than enough. Deterioration of the body gradually follows. Things you have always done, like running or lifting, seem more difficult; you’re suddenly reminded of old injuries; your muscle mass decreases, you get joint pain, loss of bone density and weakened connective tissue. To maintain healthy collagen, consider nutrients obtained in foods and supplements that can enhance the rebuilding process of your body. Col-

• • • •

lagen fibres contain two amino acids (building blocks of protein) called hydroxylysine and hydroxyproline, which may be important for forming collagen and providing strength and flexibility. It is logical to eat foods high in lysine and proline to potentially support collagen. Animal foods are the primary source of both amino acids; egg whites and wheat germ are good vegetarian sources of proline, and low-fat dairy products, fish and legumes are significant sources of lysine. Vitamin C is a major aid in increasing collagen, and is required to change proline into hydroxyproline and lysine into hydroxylysine, their collagen forms. Garlic and two sulfur-containing nutrients, taurine and lipoid acid, may have the ability to support damaged collagen fibres. Phytonutrients in fruits and vegetables are important in a collagen-building — catechins found in green tea have shown to help prevent breakdown of collagen, and anthocyanidins found in cherries, blueberries and blackberries help collagen fibres link together to strengthen them. Taking responsibility for your own well-being gives you greater selfconfidence and control over aging. Prepare yourself for a youthful future by being conscious of what is happening both inside and outside your body and taking steps to maintain it.

JOINT PAIN FIBROMYALGIA WRINKLES AND MORE FREE BOOKLET BY PHONE OR WEBSITE Genacol® & Genacol® Instant are made in Canada AVAILABLE IN MOST HEALTH FOOD STORES

888 240-3002 • www.genacol.ca 35

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

www.vistamagonline.com

Xanthones:

XANTHONE

Antioxidants Important for Inner Health

Cook, bake, blend, juice or add Xantopia anyway you want without changing the Just of Xanthones tastes of think your everyday foods.as Get a full Super-antioxidants. Much like blast of Xanthones and Anti-oxidants in antioxidants, Xanthones kill free By Reese Whitaker every teaspoon for: radicals in your body and protect your blood cells, increase ur appetite for health knowledge is balance cholesterol, reduce pain response in conabsorption, digestion, immunity seemingly unending. Sometimes satis- ditions including migraines, heal skin conditions, and energy. Unlike antioxidants, fying the need to know how and why we increase absorption of other nutrients, help balXanthones are NOT heat sensitive. are in poor health is as hard as doing something ance the body’s gut bacteria, and reduce allergies. about it. This is why many people continually For athletes, xanthone can be added to the With over forty Xanthones, the seek treatment for their symptoms instead of diet in its pure whole food form to better digest Mangosteen is today’s #1 source.

discovering the root cause where the problems originate. Digging deeper, and not just considerNo added sugars Organic Whole fruit puree ing how we feel or what is visible on the outside of the body, reveals our inner health. It is at the Packed with Xanthones and Antioxidants cellular level where the work of our immune system begins. It is here that explanations can Cook, bake, blend, juice or addpuree be found for why we may not be absorbing the o added sugars Organic Whole fruit nutrients we need or how inflammation is inanyway and you Antioxidants want without PackedXantopia with Xanthones creasing in our system. Building a basic foundachanging the tastes of your tion for health at the cellular level means taking everyday foods. a fullinfo blast of For recipes andGet more visit: measures for daily maintenance and prevention Xanthones and Anti-oxidants in — this creates peace of mind now and vitality in every teaspoon for: our future. To accomplish this, we are told to add more antioxidants to our diet. Clearing our bodies of free radical build-up, opening cells for abAnti-inflammation sorption and assisting a taxed immune system to Digestion Aid catch its breath are all reasons why antioxidants Increased Absorption are so vital. We have all heard of the most common Immune Support antioxidants that include vitamins A, C and E, Cook, bake, blend, juice or add Xantopia Energy but there are many unsung heroes that fight free anyway you want without changing the radicals. Though it may be fairly new to western tastes of your everyday foods. Get aresearchers, full healers in tropical climates have blast of Xanthones and Anti-oxidantslong in known about a super antioxidant called the xanthone. It is found in its most potent, purest every teaspoon for: form in South East Asia’s mangosteen, a delicate Distributed by: fruit known for its rich flavour. No other fruit ranks higher than the mangosteen, which boasts over 40 different xanthones. Similar to many fruits with rinds, the most nutritive value comes from the mangosteen’s rind. Due to its impressive range of healing qualities, it has been used for centuries in places like Thailand, where those harvested at their peak and grown with certified organic standards are the most prized. What does the xanthone do, and why do we need another antioxidant? Xanthones are a group of compounds that not only protect cells from free radicals and support our immune sysNo added Organic fruit puree 3770 sugars Hastings Steet Burnaby,Whole BC V5C 2H5 tem, but aid digestion, and fight inflammation Packed with Xanthones and Antioxidants in everything from diabetes to fibromyalgia. This particular phytonutrient has also been found to For recipes and more info visit:

For recipes and more info visit: www.xantopiapuree.com

and assimilate protein and supplements. Its ability to aid absorption of protein powders, for example, increases athletic performance. In combination with its anti-inflammatory effects, by reducing free radicals built up during exercise, xanthone assists in faster recovery and muscle growth. For children, whose cellular health and strong immune systems are imperative for growth, xanthone-rich mangosteens can be given or “hidden” within baking. Unlike many antioxidants, xanthone’s health benefits are not destroyed when heated. Antioxidants like vitamin C and E in raw foods are typically lost if processed or cooked, but since mangosteen’s xanthone is heat stable, it’s a more versatile way to obtain antioxidants without having to resort to a constant raw food diet. It is also imperative that seniors maintain their inner health to assist their immune systems fight toxins that have been building up and dispersing in the bloodstream over a lifetime. Their decreased ability to absorb nutrients makes it essential to get an easily digested whole food form of antioxidants. And for their bodies to use the nutrients that they eat, they must first be ready to take them in; they can’t if the cells are blocked by inflammation and toxins. Antioxidants like xanthone help clear the way for nutrients to do their work. The effects of xanthones are still being studied to help fight inflammation-based diseases, weight loss, chemical imbalances, cholesterol, and many other ailments stemming from overworked immune systems. It is not the only answer in our search for health knowledge, but it does offer a simple blueprint from which we can continue our quest for inner health. Reese Whitaker is a blood analyst, iridologist and reflexologist with an interest in illness prevention using antioxidants. Contact reese.whitaker@yahoo.ca.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Editor Selects Genacol This high quality product is a topical gel with added Genacol® microbeads designed to relieve local muscular, rheumatic and arthritic pains. These microbeads are essential and in large part responsible for the excellent results of the product. Here is why: due to the bio-activity of collagen, the laboratory concentrated on developing a new technology able to adequately isolate the Genacol® in order to maximize its bioactivity only when applied.

Purica Mushrooms It’s All About Percentages! Purica mushrooms are 58.4% verified polysaccharides, with less than 3% starch. These full spectrum products contain a high concentration of non-soluble polysaccharides. Avoiding hot water extraction preserves the majority of immune modulating polysaccharides. Purica’s 5x hybrid Cordyceps is a full spectrum product. For the first time ever, Cordyceps has been cultivated in the laboratory to not only match the chemical analysis of wild Cordyceps, but also exceed the potency by a factor of FIVE! Reported Main Uses: libido enhancement for men and woman, chronic fatigue, athletic performance enhancement. Each Red Reishi capsule contains 325 mg of proprietary mushroom extract and mycelia combination, 100 mg Nutricol® and Bromelain (3,600 mcu). Reported main uses: Memory, stress, insomia, energy and stamina. www.purica.com

Acne? Healthy Skin Begins with Simply Clear Key ingredients have been scientifically documented for their effectiveness. Formulated with natural ingredients with healing properties including coriander, water chestnut and sugar cane. Simply Clear away acne, naturally! Visit your local health food store for a sample1-866-430-5666 vivahealth@shaw.ca

FINIS: Circuit Trainer Audible Workout Timer provides motivation and direction for Circuit Interval Strength Training. Double programmable modes for rest and exercise time periods (1 sec to 20 minutes) helps your focus on working out and improves your fitness results. 5cm LED Screen clearly displays time, cycle count and mode status for an easy record of your workout. 2x Amplified speakers with adjustable volume horn blasts can be heard in large open spaces making this great for outdoor or group use. Lightweight design and water-resistant finish lends itself to travel and poolside use. Available at: www.finisinc. com. Price: $179.99. www.finisinc.com

Stylishly Reducing Landfills Across Canada Calgary’s own Shannon Andrukow created an alternative to Bisphenol A (BPA) bottles called Otterbottle. Each Otterbottle is 100%, 18/8 grade stainless steel, BPA-free and earth-friendly, sporting a different design motif on each bottle to suit everyone’s tastes. They come in three sizes: 500ml ($17.99), 750ml ($19.99) or 900ml ($21.99). The bottles are a perfect addition to any gym bag, hiker’s knapsack or simply a convenient way to take water along with you, knowing deep down that you are doing your part to help the earth. To learn more or find out where to buy visit www.otterbottle.ca

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Help Us Help You: 1. Do you use coupons?

M Yes M No

2. Would you like to see coupons in VISTA?

M Yes M No

3. Would you like to see downloadable coupons on our website at www.vistamagonline.com?

M Yes M No

Survey Win a VISTA Prize Package! We would like to thank you for taking time to respond to this survey. Your feedback is very valuable. Five lucky readers will each win a VISTA Gift Package.

4. How many people read your copy of VISTA? 5. Would you like to see more M sports supplements M clothing M success stories M pet health M health products

information on: M cancer treatment M spas M weight loss M exercise equipment

M healthy home products M personal hygiene M organic products M contests

Mail replies to: VISTA Survey, 13256 55A Avenue Surrey, BC V3X 3B3 or fax to (604) 591-1989 No Drop-Offs, Please

6. Where do you buy the majority of your health products? M grocery store M health food store M department store M pharmacy M online M MLM 7. What are some of the name brands of health products that you use?

Surveys must be received by Aug21/09. Last issueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winners

8. Do you exercise?

M Yes M No

9. How long have you been reading VISTA? 10. Have you ever visited our website at www.vistamagonline.com?

M Yes M No

C.T. MacFarlane, Moncton NB, Teresa Hrynchyshyn, Buchanan SK, Kate Rotando, Osgoode ON, Mindy Tong, Richmond BC, Verna Mikolas, Edmonton AB IF YOU SEE YOUR NAME HERE, CONTACT US AT 1-877-905-7771 TO CLAIM YOUR VISTA PRIZE PACKAGE.

Tell Us What You Think: great

good

needs improvement

Jot down the articles that most interested you and your rating.

Comments:

Discretionary: Name: Age: Gender: Address: E-mail: City: Province: Postal Code: Business Phone: ( ) Residential Phone: ( ) Where did you acquire VISTA?

M M

F M

How To Have A Greener Summer Vacation By Shelly Lynn Nellis

In This Section: STAYCATION By Michael Bloch GREEN HOUSE - Building a Zero-Energy Home By Carol Crenna Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No Great Sacrifice to Protect the Environment By Dr. David Suzuki

Have a Greener Summer Vacation By Shelly Lynn Nellis

fter you have visited the neighbourhood swimming pool a dozen times and you’ve heard the kids whine for several hours about being bored, it’s easy to simply flip the TV on and let the kids “vege out.” Yet as more parents try to improve their lifestyle and teach their kids how to be environmentally conscious, not to mention healthy and active, taking the easy route – TV-watching – is not always the best choice of activities. Finding an eco-friendly activity in the heat of summer seems to be getting more complicated. After all, with a gaping hole in the ozone layer (that limits time in the sun) and landfills teeming over with waste (that limits places to play), the choices can seem somewhat limited. Here are a few ideas that will help you to keep the kids entertained this summer that won’t leave you feeling guilty about the environmental side effects. An “old school” style of summer. There are so many things that you did when you were a small child that you probably wouldn’t dream of letting your child do now. Yet there are plenty of things you did as a child that kids today can enjoy. Think back to your summer days when you would ride your bike in the park, roller skate, and jump on a trampoline. So get the kids outdoors and show them how to experience summer the way you did as a kid. The only difference is that now we know to be sun safe! Cook something up. Many kids today grow up without having a clue how to bake cookies, or anything else for that matter. So take the kids into the kitchen and let them help you whip up a tasty treat. Don’t worry if you aren’t an expert in the kitchen yourself. You can use this time to experiment and fine tune your own cooking skills. Also, preparing dishes, treats and snacks at home is a great way to control the ingredients of the foods you eat and to cut down on the waste of pre-packaged foods. Read something. Most libraries today charge a nominal fee (if any fee at all) for a library card. With your library card, you can borrow books, movies and CDs. The great thing about borrowing a book, movie or CD is that when you’re finished enjoying it, someone else can enjoy it and there is no waste! While you’re at the library, be sure to ask about their programmes. In summer months, most libraries offer children’s programmes of some kind, from book reading to hosting entertainers and musicians. To cut down on carbon emissions, ride your bikes over to the library rather than driving a car.

photo: snap photo

Park it! There are so many parks around that you are sure to live close to a couple. These can be city parks, neighbourhood parks, or even provincial or national parks. Head to the great outdoors and get back in touch with nature by hiking, camping or fishing. If it’s been awhile since you’ve been camping or fishing, you may find that it’s completely different when you enjoy this experience through the wonder and excitement of a child. If you live close enough to a park, ride your bikes there, pack a picnic lunch and make a day of your outing. Make a bold move and turn off that TV. Use this summer to teach your children to enjoy being kids while you both learn new ways to have fun and be eco-friendly. Shelly Lynn Nellis has been actively involved in the health industry for over 15 years, and is one of the co-founders and partners of VISTA Magazine. Shelly enjoys outdoor treasure hunts and baking cookies with her daughter Ainslee. For more information go to www.askshelly.com

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Staycation vs Vacation By Michael Bloch

‘Staycation’; noun, a holiday at home.

haven’t been on a “proper” vacation for many years. My logic is: why would I want to go to a place nicer than where I live? I’ll just yearn to live there, so I will be miserable when I return home.

Is the grass greener?

How many times have you been on vacation only to find that what was in the glossy brochure with the doctored photos didn’t reflect the reality of the destination? What about all those tourist traps where everything is cheaply made and expensive? The mindset is spend, spend, spend – and it’s a bit like pigging-out on chocolate: it feels good at the time, but leaves you feeling rather sickly afterwards. We have this tendency to see the grass as being greener on the other side; whereas, it can really be quite green where we are. For example, I spent 7 years in a coastal town and it was only as I was preparing to move interstate I decided to take in a few more sights around the area. I had quite a shock to discover what I had been missing out on during those years, which made moving much harder. When we live in a nice place, we tend to take it for granted. Sometimes, it is good to get away, far away, particularly if you live in a crowded city, but there is often this odd pressure on us to take vacations in distant and exotic places when great places to relax can be quite close to home. A vacation can be an expensive affair, costing hundreds of dollars a day on fuel, food and accommodation. Those long trips also have an environmental impact such as greenhouse gas emissions associated with the travel. A 1,000 mile (1,600 kilometre) round trip in a medium sized car will crank out around half a tonne of carbon dioxide emissions. A 2,500 mile (4,023 kilometre) return flight is over double the emissions. Additionally, there can be the stresses of packing, scheduling, and then worrying about your home while you’re away, topped off by battling crowds of other tourists. It’s not unusual for people to come back from vacation more strung out than when they left. Have you ever considered a

staycation? Building on the 100-mile diet concept, a staycation is a holiday at or close to home, whether it’s bumming around the backyard or exploring the region that you live in more, with plenty of time to do so. Even the holiday-obsessed British are trying staycations, albeit due mainly to economic circumstances. In May 2008, the London Times organized a survey and found that a third of respondents were switching their plans from a holiday abroad to a holiday in Britain. What should you do on a staycation? The first point is to not do things you wouldn’t do on vacation elsewhere such as mowing the lawn or painting the house. Your staycation needs to be fun! Attend to all that stuff before you go, just as you would do in preparing for a traditional vacation. Become a tourist in your own town! Visit your local tourist information centre and you may be surprised at what you discover to see and do on your home patch. There are parks and museums you haven’t visited, restaurants you haven’t tried, and perhaps you could take in a local festival or two. You don’t have to stay at home for it to be a staycation. There may be a bed and breakfast on the outskirts of town you would enjoy, a nice camping spot, or even a WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms or Willing Workers on Organic Farms) location close by, which can be a great handson way to learn about growing your own food, and it won’t cost you a cent. Perhaps you could even invest the money you save on taking an expensive vacation to photo: susan smith make things a little more staycation-friendly in your home, such as creating a private little slice of paradise in your own back yard. While your staycation isn’t going to save the planet on its own, it will probably save you money and is one of the many small things you can do that collectively do help reduce the impact on our environment.

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

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Green House C

By Carol Crenna

anadians are realizing that how we build our homes – design, type of materials, construction waste, and efficiency of the final product – is one of the most significant ways that we affect our environment. As a result, building green is going mainstream. An RBC Royal Bank poll found that 60 percent of Canadians planning home building and renos in the next couple of years will opt for eco-friendly options. Though some people still envision tie-dyed curtains, wood stoves and wind chimes in offthe-grid houses, the image is quickly changing to a modern, technologically advanced, healthier and more comfortable living environment. Canada Mortgage and Housing (CMHC) has launched the Equilibrium Sustainable Housing Initiative, which it hopes will “represent a fundamental change in the way Canadians think about their homes.” It invited architects to submit ideas for zero-energy homes – which use only the energy that is produced within the house itself to run it. A dozen homes are being built across the country by 12 chosen teams. The Equilibrium projects had to work in all types of Canadian climates and offer: 1. Health – promoting superior indoor air and water quality in a comfortable living space with stable temperatures, more natural light and healthier building materials (no off-gassing). 2. Energy efficiency – homes account for 20 percent of all energy used in Canada. Of this, 67 percent is used for heating and cooling, 18 percent for lighting and appliances, and 15 percent for heating water. Equilib-

rium houses must not only use renewable energy for the house’s operation, but also reduced energy in manufacturing the building materials and in the house’s construction. 3 Efficient use of resources – this means making little construction waste, using advanced, durable materials that are long-lasting, and having little impact on the environment around it. 4. Environmental design – they’re smaller homes that require less land, materials and energy. They offer solar energy that takes advantage of the local climate, low-toxin construction materials, easy-clean floors and energy-efficient appliances. 5. Affordability – the only way we’ll buy these homes is if we can afford them and if the designs adapt to our needs. Vancouver architect Chris Mattock is building one of two Equilibrium homes in BC with his company Habitat Design + Consulting. His Harmony House being built in Burnaby, which will be completed in March 2010 (visit www. harmonyhouse.ca), will cost its owners approximately $700,000. Mattock states that the house will function like any other, with the most-energy efficient appliances (including a drying closet which is heated by the house’s solar thermal system instead of a clothes dryer which consumes a lot of electricity). The house will use daylight for lighting, with lots of (triple-glazed) windows and skylights, and electric lights will automatically turn off when daylight is sufficient inside and when someone leaves a room. Mattock says, “Ancient Chinese and Roman techniques will be used — all of

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

their buildings faced south to provide increased light and solar heating. Natural sunlight will provide 20 percent of the home’s heating annually.” The house will be so well insulated that it will need only 20 percent of the usual heating requirements of a conventional house. It will have a foot of insulation in walls using postconsumer recycled newspapers and 18 inches of insulation in the roof. It will be air-tight with sealed wall, ceiling and floor barriers, but it will have better indoor air quality than most houses because a ventilation system in every room will run continuously, taking stale air out and bringing in fresh outdoor air. The ventilation system will filter in-coming air to reduce particles of pollen and pollution. Warm air coming from the laundry, bathrooms and kitchen will go through a heat recovery system so 80 percent of that heat will go back into the home’s heating. To give it healthier air-quality, only low-toxicity interior sealants and paints will be used. Harmony House is solar-powered. Its owners will be able to take a shower in winter with water that was heated by the sun last summer. A 300-square-foot solar collector on the roof will collect enough energy to heat a 20,000-gallon water storage tank that will heat water for the whole year and heat the home. A 600-squarefoot photovoltaic solar panel on the roof will run lights and appliances. Mattock concludes, “All homes could be built this way, but not until the majority of the market adopts the concept will they be less expensive. CMHC’s goal is that by 2030 all new houses will be built with this standard. The UK has mandated that all homes be zero-carbon emitting by 2015; buildings account for one third of carbon emissions globally.” Six CMHC Equilibrium homes are completed and are now open for public tours before owners move in: • • • • • •

The Avalon Discovery 3 House located at 3 Issard Close, Red Deer, Alberta Inspiration located at 5676 Manotick Main Street, Manotick, Ontario The Now House at 12 Topham Park, Toronto, Ontario The Riverdale NetZero Project at 9926 87 St. NW, Edmonton, Alberta ÉcoTerra located at 9, rue de la Héronnière, Eastman, Quebec The Laebon CHESS Project at 3 Landry Close, Red Deer, Alberta

Other Equilibrium homes in the works are Green Dream Home in Kamloops, BC, and Vision Home in Moncton, New Brunswick. Visit www.cmhc.ca and type search “Equilibrium” for more information.

It’s No Sacrifice to Protect The Environment By Dr. David Suzuki

recently read an article about a woman in Spokane, Washington, who doesn’t like phosphate-free dishwashing detergents. Phosphate-containing detergents are banned in Spokane County because of their negative impact on the environment, so the woman drives 45 minutes to Idaho where phosphate detergents are still sold. The article also notes that the woman has a five-year-old daughter. I’m astounded. People often argue that protecting the environment will require too many sacrifices. Is this what they mean – that they would risk their children’s futures because they can’t be bothered to rinse their dishes before putting them into the dishwasher? Phosphates are added to cleaning products because they help cut grease and get rid of food particles on dishes. But they also have enormous negative impacts on rivers, streams and lakes. By fertilizing the waters, phosphates can cause massive algae blooms that starve the water of oxygen and choke aquatic ecosystems, killing fish, amphibians, insects and plants. Phosphates have been banned from laundry detergents in most places for a number of years now, but consumers have resisted moves to ban them from dishwashing detergents. The article notes that the Spokane River is one of the most endangered in the US and that phosphate pollution from the county’s main wastewater treatment plant has been reduced by 14 percent since the dishwasher-detergent law was passed in July. But apparently this woman doesn’t care if the river is devoid of life when her daughter grows up – as long as her dishes are spot-free! The woman claims to be “environmentally conscious.” I guess she means that she cares about the environment only when it is convenient for her. This is a good example of the kind of challenges faced by people who really do care about the environment and the future. Part of

the problem may be that some people can’t really relate their own behaviour to the consequences of that behaviour. Consider, for example, parents with asthmatic children who continue to smoke in the house or drive SUVs. Others are simply not willing to make even the smallest sacrifices when it comes to protecting the environment. Yet, for the most part, no real sacrifices are required. At the David Suzuki Foundation, we hear almost daily from people who thought it would be difficult to get up a bit earlier and expend a bit more energy to cycle to work instead of drive, for example. But they soon found that the benefits of cycling – from getting in better shape to enjoying the outside world – far outweighed any of the negative consequences. It’s more about changing the way we think than about giving something up. If we take a broader, more long-range view of things, we see that we usually gain more than we lose when we make changes in our lives to protect our surroundings. We see the same kind of resistance to things like a carbon tax. Never mind that market forces play a far greater role in fuel-price increases than a carbon tax ever will! People see that they might have to pay a few pennies more at the gas pump or for home-heating bills and they immediately cry that they will have to give up their cars and freeze in their homes during winter. But we see immediate and long-term benefits from putting a price on carbon. People find ways to conserve energy, companies invest in technologies that use renewable energy, and we end up with less pollution and fewer emissions that contribute to global warming. We live in consumer societies, especially here in North America. We’ve become convinced that we have to keep replacing our goods with newer and “better” (and often over-packaged) products. We dispose of things even before they have broken down. And the world suffers for it.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

photo: ranplette

People sometimes accuse me and other environmentalists of wanting to send us back to living in caves and scrounging for roots and berries. Nothing could be further from the truth. We can lead lives that are even more fulfilling on a cleaner planet where more people have access to clean air, water and food. All it takes is some imagination and some forward thinking. If we really cared about our world and about our children and grandchildren, we would be willing to make some sacrifices to make the world a better, healthier place. But in most cases, the sacrifices are as illusory as some of the benefits we think we are deriving from our rampant consumerism. Take David Suzuki’s Nature Challenge: www.davidsuzuki.org/NatureChallenge/ David Suzuki is the Chair of the David Suzuki Foundation, and is an award-winning scientist and broadcaster. He is host of the television series, The Nature of Things. He founded CBC radio’s Quirks and Quarks and presented documentary series, From Naked Ape to Superspecies and It’s a Matter of Survival. Dr. Suzuki has received a UNESCO prize for science, a United Nations Environment Program medal and the Order of Canada.

www.vistamagonline.com

Calling All Cell Phone Users By John Austen

efore you take your next call, you might want to read this article. Though you may have an emotional attachment to your cell phone – some people say they would rather die than give it up – for years researchers with access to the scientific facts have been trying to warn us about their use. Cell phones are now owned by over half the population, and are found in 90 percent of North American households, with some people replacing their land line with a cell phone. When a phone goes wherever you do, many more hours are spent on it. How safe are they? What effect do they have on quality of life? Your cell phone is a microwave transmitter. Microwave energy oscillates at millions of cycles per second. The Journal of Cellular Biochemistry reports that these frequencies may cause rapid cell aging, make cancerous cells grow aggressively, and contribute to disease by interfering with cellular DNA’s repair mechanisms. Cordless phones marked 900 megahertz or 2.4 gigahertz emit the same microwave radiation as cell phones. Opponents of the theory say that cell phones emit waves too weak to break chemical bonds in body cells, and there’s no known biological mechanism to explain how this radiation might lead to cancer. But other researchers say that just because science can’t explain the mechanism doesn’t mean one doesn’t exist. Concerns have focused on the fact that the frequencies are absorbed mostly by the head and neck. In recent studies, tumours tended to occur on the same side of the head where the patient holds the phone. A large study in 13 countries including Canada called Interphone suggested a link between cell phone use and glioma, cancer of a salivary gland, and acoustic neuroma. Dr. Sadetzki, a physician at Tel Aviv University, published data in The American Journal of Epidemi‑ ology finding a 58 percent higher risk of tumours of the salivary gland among heavy cell phone users. A Swedish analysis of 16 studies in Occu‑ pational and Environmental Medicine showed a doubling of risk for acoustic neuroma and glioma after 10 years of heavy cell phone use. Though Health Canada, the FDA and many cancer organizations haven’t taken notice, when TV and radio reports began, the public has. Three prominent neurosurgeons told CNN’s

Larry King that they wouldn’t hold cell phones to their ears, and only use an earpiece or speaker-phone mode. If you think it’s just conspiracy theorists and paranoid naturalists creating the hype, consider Dr. George Carlo’s claims. He is the public health scientist, epidemiologist and lawyer who headed the $28.5 million research programme funded by the telecommunications industry from 1993 to 1999 designed to prove that cell phones are safe. These studies proved just the opposite. Dr. Carlo has appeared on 20/20, 60 Minutes, World News Tonight, CBS News with Dan Rather, The Today Show, CNN, Fox News and MSNBC discussing his frightening findings, and why government and big business are quieting concerns that could impact the billion dollar industry. See http://www.emf-health.com/dr-george-carlo. htm and his book, Cell Phones: Invisible Hazards in the Wireless Age – An Insider’s Alarming Dis‑ coveries about Cancer and Genetic Damage (Carroll and Graf, 2001). Many reports of illness from living or working close to powerful radio frequency transmitters have initiated bans on towers on certain buildings in Canada, the US and Europe. The insurance industry has taken notice of lawsuits. Lloyd’s of London refuses to insure phone manufacturers against damage to users’ health. Cell phones aren’t the only culprits. There is an invisible sea of radio frequencies (RF) and electromagnetic fields (EMF) surrounding us in electrical wires, appliances, TVs and radios. Anecdotal evidence also links this radiation with everything from memory loss, headaches and tinnitus to stress on the endocrine (hormone) system, and reduction in disease-fighting white blood cells. Who is most susceptible? Brain cancer is said to have surpassed leukemia as the number one cancer killer in children. There has been an increase in pediatric brain cancers of 21 percent in Australia in the past decade, and a 40 percent brain tumour increase in Europe and the UK in the last 20 years. There is no doubt that cell phones are convenient and can save lives in an emergency, but we may find in the future that they have broader reaching health ramifications than other now-well-researched lifestyle habits like smoking.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

FACT!

All Cell Phones Emit Electromagnetic Radiation UCLA and University of Pittsburgh studies show cell phones may be connected to symptoms like: headaches, fatigue, tingling sensations and even memory loss.

Actual Size! The Wave Shield™ blocks up to 97% of that radiation that may enter through the ear without affecting the quality of transmission.

Without Wave Shield™ With Wave Shield™ USA Lab tested, functional and easy to handle, Wave Shield™ is a patented protected product originally developed for use in clothing designed to protect workers exposed to radiation. Visit cprnews.com and view over 160 studies on cell phone dangers under “World News”

Call for info: 561-989-9147 takensave@aol.com

Paperback Heroes

Books that inspire healthy living By Michelle Kwon Your Dog’s Health: A Natural Guide to Health, Happiness and Harmony for Your Canine Companion, by Franco Cavaleri, published by Biologic

Publishing Inc., $15.99 Nutritional biochemist and pet enthusiast Franco Cavleri continues his Potential Within series in this book which advocates that though this member of your family may get the love he deserves, lack of knowledge about proper care decreases his lifespan and his quality of life. The book covers dog nutrition but also gives tips on how to prevent and naturally relieve everything from joint stiffness and obesity to poor digestion and tooth problems. The author says that after following simple guidelines, your dog should experience positive results in a few days, with lasting benefits to make him happier and more vibrant in his “senior years.” Though it’s only 140 pages, the book packs a lot in: common toxic substances for dogs and what they’ll cause, a canine first aid kit list, subtle dog communication signs, advice on making room in your life for a pet and making sure he knows who is in charge at all times, and how to choose a vet. When it comes to food, he says raw and unprocessed is best, purchased ground in prepared packages or made yourself, with variations depending on your dog’s age and health.

Thrive Fitness, by Brendan Brazier, published by Penguin Canada, $24.00 Following up his best-selling book The Thrive Diet, Ironman triathlete and Canadian 50 km ultra marathon champion Brendan Brazier talks about what he lives by daily in this fitness guide. Though beginner athletes might be intimidated by his personal regimen, the book is designed so that anyone can learn its basics. It does delve into complex aspects of fitness and nutrition, but he also adds personal experiences to demonstrate common issues. For example, Brazier “didn’t know how to swim,” but had been swimming wrong every day for three years until someone pointed out that until he stopped and got the basics right, he would never improve. The same holds true for any aspect of exercise. He talks about persistence, sharpening your focus, different types of stress, and why sleep in is important to fitness, and adds training and nutrition logs, and helpful stretches and exercises. Brazier also briefly covers his Thrive Diet, breaks down the key nutrients required for exercise, and offers top foods to fuel workouts. He discusses specific disease and sports injury prevention, and emphasizes that his guide isn’t a fitness programme as much as a lifestyle change. The Antioxidant Prescription, by Bryce Wylde, published by Random House Canada, $32.95 We’ve all heard the terms “antioxidants” and “free radicals” but putting them into practical daily living terms is another story. That’s a story that respected clinical nutritionist/homeopathic doctor Bryce Wylde tackles in this book. In addition to in-depth research and analysis about antioxidants, the author also provides easy to remember tips like his four Rs that create an action plan to better health: Remove (stress, toxins,

bad habits), Replenish (food to avoid free radical damage), Regenerate (therapeutic supplements), and Repair (exercise, sleep and habits to support healing). His detox plan offers a 7 to 21-day cleanse that’s simple, allows you to eat almost as much as you want, and doesn’t need professional supervision. The book tells you what foods to buy, what cooking methods are best, how to de-stress by prioritizing, and how to test your own free-radical-damage levels. Interesting facts featured: flossing your teeth gives an extra year on your life by reducing inflammation and free radicals; vegetarians live longer and have higher levels of antioxidants; drinking from plastic bottles increases free radicals; prolonged stress produces free radicals at an alarming rate, rapidly breaking down the body.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

www.vistamagonline.com

The Buzz on Insect Repellents By John Austen

re insect repellents safe for you and your family? Overly harsh chemical ingredients can stop bugs from biting but they may have side effects that are worse than the insect bite itself. Though twenty million Canadians use chemical insect repellents every year, there is evidence that DEET â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the active ingredient in most mosquito repellents â&#x20AC;&#x201C; can cause health problems. A study conducted by Duke University Medical Center pharmacologist, Dr. AbouDonia, PhD, reported that DEET causes brain cell death and behavioural changes in rats after frequent and prolonged use. Abou-Donia says his 30 years of research on pesticides clearly indicate the need for caution. DEET has been proven to enter the bloodstream when applied to the skin, and while many people use DEET-based products without incident, others have suffered side effects ranging from rashes to muscle spasms and death. In 1995, the National Poison Control Center in Washington, DC, received over 6,700 reports of repellent exposure, including one death, and of those reports, two thirds occurred in children age six and under. Children are at risk for subtle brain changes caused by DEET because their skin easily absorbs it and chemicals affect their developing nervous systems, reports Abou-Donia. The most frequently reported symptoms of DEET toxicity in children were lethargy, headaches, tremors, seizures and convulsions.

ABCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PrimeTime Live featured a segment on DEET which focused on dramatic incidents highlighting the dangers. The programme told the stories of Tim Christiansen, who at 26 years old died after using DEET twice in one day in 1994; Elijah Harrison, an 8-year-old boy whose mother sprayed him with a 25 percent DEET product once a day for two days and he still suffers from seizures; and workers in the Everglades National Park who experienced rashes, dizziness and numbness of the lips after using a DEET repellent. Not using DEET leaves the problem of finding an effective repellent. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard about natural repellents, but do they work? Essential plant oils including citronella, cedarwood, lemongrass, pennyroyal, neem, peppermint and eucalyptus provide adequate and safe protection from biting, stinging pests. Mark Blumenthal of the American Botanical Council explains why essential oils may repel bugs: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very possibly the plantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; own protection against predators.â&#x20AC;? Studies at the University of Guelph confirm that natural repellents can be just as effective as DEET-based products. In one study, a formula based on citronella and four other essential oils was equally effective as Off! Skintastic, a 7 percent DEET formula marketed for children. However, some essential oil-based repellents repel bugs far better than others. Use common sense, do some research, look for products with proven studies, and reapply the plant oils often.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

rĂ´!LL NATURAL Ă´$%%4 &2%% rĂ´'REATĂ´FORĂ´+IDSĂ´ Ă´!DULTS rĂ´-ADEĂ´FROMĂÉSSENTIALĂ´ PLANTĂÓILS rĂ´3MELLSĂ´GREAT rĂ´2ATEDĂ´ Ă´MOSTĂÉFFECTIVEĂ´ BYĂ´'OODĂ´(OUSEKEEPINGĂ´ -AGAZINE 2EMEMBER ĂÍFĂÝOUĂ´KNEWĂ´ WHATĂ´WASĂÍNĂ´MOSTĂ´REPELLENTS Ă´ YOU DĂ´PREFERĂ´TOĂ´GETĂ´BIT

Ă´ WWW QUANTUMHEALTH COM

Sports Nutrition Update

Cell Phone Addiction By Cory Holly

aptain’s Log from the US-RV Enterprise: Life, the only frontier. This is the real-life story of the US-RV Enterprise, her crew, and their five year mission to inspire, motivate and educate all they encounter, to teach people how to get well and age with excellent health, to listen, lead and edify, to help save humanity from itself and to boldly go where no married couple has gone before…Stardate 2009.05.27 Cell-U-itus: a complex neurological syndrome caused by excessive use of wireless mobile cell phone technology; symptoms include brain inflammation, addictive-compulsive obsession, dependence, anxiety, depression and unusual or aberrant-like behavior. The cell phone is a primitive communication device that exists on the frontier of modern technology. It is both a phenomenon and an institution, and for the majority of those who possess one, a habit turned vice. The “cell” is a gold mine for companies that understand its potential addiction, but the cell phone is more than a license to print money for those who control the technology. It is and has become an emotional remedy for the human condition. For some, it is a connection to a world of false hope. To others it is their “soul” connection to business. For those desperate for love, attention and recognition from virtually anyone, it is a godsend: a “soother” of sorts for the needy and low of self-esteem. It fulfills the role of psychiatrist without the fee. It’s also most likely the greatest device in the world for worry warts, chatter-boxes, control freaks and scaredy-cats. A wise friend reminded me why he doesn’t have a cell. He is a successful, well known, in-demand health expert. He refers to the cell as a “social health disrupter.” First, the device itself and its annoying ring, its negative impact on bystanders in hearing range, its rude and disruptive effect during conversation with “real” people, and finally, the most important point of all, the peace of mind impossible to gain or sustain by using one. Tragically, few care or fail to see the significance of peace of mind. What is that? In November 2007, I travelled to Thessaloniki, Greece to compete in the INBA Natural Olympia, the highest level of

competitive natural bodybuilding. I left without my cell phone. During my stay in a tiny fishing village resort hotel on the Mediterranean coast, I enjoyed a small room with no telephone. For five glorious days I lived without the sound of a cell or land line ringing in my ear. The effect was astonishing. I experienced a strong sense of inner calm and tranquility of thought, something quite unlike my busy cell-phone dependant personal and business life in Vancouver. Upon my return, I terminated my cell phone account and decided to rely on the internet for all business and personal communication. Could we tour America, run our business and communicate with friends and family effectively without a cell? Is it possible to live without one? Eighteen months later, I can tell you it was definitely the right move – a great decision. Not only are we able to operate Cory Holly Institute with internet technology and communicate with clients, friends and family, but there is no noise pollution. We have a toll-free message service that we can check anytime and respond to on the internet with the aid of Skype. After living in the RV for more than 500 days, I have reached a conclusion. It is better to be cell-u-less and free than have a cell and be a slave to it. Here are some real life examples of people observed using cell phones during our tour: As I walk into the gym, a cell phone rings behind the entrance counter. It belongs to the front desk receptionist. While speaking on her cell, she scans my card and I got a nod and a smile, but not a word. Larry is lying flat-out on a gym stretch mat having a cellular conversation. His eyes are glued on the ceiling. Over a period of 90 minutes, he proceeds to lie on the mat, relax and have a nice chat. Not once does he move except to switch hands. Sally is working out in the gym (or so it seems), but she won’t stop talking on her cell. She’s on the phone nonstop from beginning to end of her workout – for nearly two hours. She switches arms routinely and is careful to avoid any equipment or exercise that demands the use of both hands. You go girl! On Huntington Beach, I observe a fellow on his cell phone, screaming and arguing with someone. Eventually he tells the person to F themselves,

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

and then hurls the phone into the ocean. He marches off towards the parking lot still fuming. A well-dressed, middle-aged couple walks onto the patio of a beautiful hotel in Tucson where we are seated. The man is holding a cell, text-messaging fervently. They proceed to sit down on a patio couch side-by-side. A server approaches and asks if they would like a drink. He nods without looking up. The woman orders for him. The sun is setting, the view is stunning and the air temperature is luscious. I can’t help but notice her frustration. You can tell this woman wants some attention from this guy, perhaps to enjoy the romance of the moment, but continues to be ignored by him. Not once does he look up. Eventually, the woman stands up and wanders away by herself to the edge of the balcony, looking despondent. He doesn’t flinch and continues to make finger-love to his cell. Does the cell itself cause addiction or is that a construct of the addict’s mind and emotional state? Certainly not everyone abuses this privilege of convenience. Cell phone technology is on the cusp of an exciting new frontier – technology is mankind’s best hope for the future. But just like life in the old Wild West, a little refinement and courtesy is in order. “Check your guns before entering town,” as they said. The mechanical instrumentation of the human species is at hand, literally. Do you serve your cell or does it serve you? Do you get an adrenaline rush when it rings, and run after it like a dog? Do you repeatedly interrupt inperson conversations to answer it, making them feel less important than your cell? Do you enjoy being taken for a ride for the monthly expense? The cell phone is nothing more than a functional tool, but notice how the communicator is utilized in Star Trek. No one interrupts anybody during a conversation and it’s rarely used for more than five seconds. Gene Roddenberry was way ahead of his time. Beam me up Scottie! Get me off of this planet! As always, stay well and live free…CH Cory Holly is lecturing in Vancouver this summer on topics related to sports nutrition, human performance and motivation. Visit CoryHolly.com/Seminars for more info.

Enjoy the Sun; Save the Skin By Michelle Kwon

s the country enjoys fine summer weather, the last thing that we want to hear is a warning to stay out of the sun. The most obvious way to avoid telltale signs of aging (and skin cancer) is to be inside for all but a half hour a day — to get our daily dose of vitamin D. But perhaps just as important to health is the need to absorb the sun’s rays to perk up moods, which often means lingering in its warmth for far longer. You can wear a hat and sunscreen to prevent further damage, but if the effects are already visible, you may need something more to remedy it. We’ve all got sun damage. If you’ve got freckles, age spots or wrinkles, you’ve got photo-aging, which is another word for premature aging and damage to the skin caused by sun exposure. These often unsightly and sometimes harmful effects may not be as serious as precancerous rough patches and melanoma, but they signal a fairly dramatic change in the skin. That change can be remedied by natural nutrients including the antioxidant curcumin. Curcumin, the phytochemical which gives the spice turmeric its yellow colour, is becoming increasingly popular for its anti-inflammatory

powers, particularly in the treatment of photodamaged skin. According to Dr. Madalene Heng, MD, Professor of Medicine/Dermatology at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine, curcumin can repair sun-damaged skin, effectively treating fine lines and wrinkles, pre-lentigo malignas (slowest growing form of malignant skin cancer), pigmentation (age spots), actinic keratoses (precancerous rough patches), psoriasis and scars. She explains that curcumin short-circuits “the body’s response to assault” which causes these symptoms. Every injury that damages the skin, even the creation of a freckle, goes through the injury cycle, and by quenching this cycle, it can reverse or minimize the damage. Injuries result in inflammation (pain, redness and water accumulation) and five minutes post-injury, phosphorylase kinase is activated (a chemical reaction in the body). Curcumin stops this activation, preventing the inflammatory symptoms which eventually lead to scarring. In Dr. Heng’s treatment, curcumin is applied topically in gel form twice a day for days, weeks or months, depending on the condition being treated. Curcumin should not be used for skin cancers, though, which should be treated surgically. Even though curcumin may kill a few cancer cells, not all cancers are susceptible to it. It can be taken orally. Leslie Baumann, MD, Director of the University of Miami Cosmetic Medicine and Research Institute, Miami Beach, Florida, is a strong advocate of ingesting ginger and turmeric, and suggests adding curry to the diet, for example, as an anti-aging approach. She relates that curry (which often includes the spices curry, ginger and turmeric) has the strongest and most effective anti-aging potential. Dr. Heng notes that the topical gel best harnesses curcumin’s antiinflammatory powers. According to both physicians, curcumin works on all skin types, especially fair ones. “A cocktail of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals can help in photo-damaged and hormonally-aging skin,” Dr. Baumann states. “Curcumin is excellent for wrinkles and can curb inflammation and the formation of free radicals. And supplements of curcumin can help a patient tolerate retin-A better through its anti-inflammatory effects. Supplementing with curcumin can only be beneficial in curbing the speed at which the skin ages.”

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Antioxidants: Beyond a Buzzword By Chelsea Danchuk

he media has continually bombarded us with new trends in healthy eating: the power of acai, balancing blood sugar, alkalizing diets, and detoxification. It seems like as soon as we familiarize ourselves with one, a new one has taken its place. We tend to jump on each quick-fix bandwagon in the hopes of bettering our bodies. There is one buzzword, however, that should be here to stay – antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential nutrients that play a huge role in our health and longevity; they prevent cellular and tissue damage by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals, which he believed were responsible for aging, were discovered by Dr. Danham Harman in the 1950s. They are highly reactive molecules which oxidize cells and wreak havoc on our bodies, leaving us prone to fatigue, infection and even disease. Free radicals are natural byproducts of metabolism and can typically be controlled by our antioxidant system. They are found to be hazardous only when there is an increase in exposure coupled with poor nutrition — a reality we are all living with. Stress, poor lifestyle choices, overly processed foods and environmental chemicals contribute to the excess of free radicals. As Dr. Harman predicted, they are responsible for disease and accelerated aging: they break down tissue, impair cell division, and mutate cells. Along with this theory, Dr. Harman implied that antioxidants like vitamins C and E slow this process by allowing energy to flow smoothly, preventing the oxidation of healthy cells. Studies have now uncovered hundreds of other antioxidants in the form of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, phytochemicals and fatty-acids which work powerfully together to protect the body. One of their most vital roles is supporting the immune system. Immune cells are prone to oxidation, as are the communication pathways between them, and when affected, they don’t have the same ability to fight off invaders. Specific antioxidants including vitamins A, C and E, selenium, zinc, bioflavonoids and carotenoids minimize these risks. There has been more research about the immune-boosting effects of vitamin C than any other nutrient. It is water-soluble and, therefore, can scavenge free radicals within our cells. It has also been shown to increase white blood cell counts and antibodies like interferon, which coats the outer cell membranes to prevent the entry of viruses. At least 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C should be supplemented for these purposes, taken at intervals throughout the day. In scavenging free radicals, vitamin C’s counterpart is vitamin E, which is a fat-soluble nutrient responsible for safeguarding our cell membranes. It also helps to produce two important immune cells: natural killer cells, which protect the immune system by destroying harmful bacteria and cancer cells, and B cells, which produce antibodies to kill invaders. Diets rich in seeds, vegetable oils and grains will provide the necessary 100 to 400 milligrams per day; however, most North Americans may need to supplement because of poor lifestyle choices. Selenium also increases natural killer cells and mobilizes the body’s cancer-fighting cells. Zinc’s antioxidant protection lies in its ability to

both increase and strengthen white blood cells. There have been numerous studies showing its efficacy in reducing infections and their severity. These minerals are required in small amounts and are found in shellfish. Sufficient levels are often found in good-quality multivitamins, but can be supplemented separately. Bioflavonoids and carotenoids are phytonutrients found in fruit and vegetables, all of them potent antioxidants. They protect our bodies from environmental pollutants and are largely found in the brassica family of vegetables, like broccoli and cauliflower. Carotenoids are known for their role in fighting cancer, beta carotene being the most common. Studies have shown that it stimulates our immune system to kill cancer cells. Although this single nutrient has been the most widely researched, it is believed that the benefits of carotenoids are a result of their collective effects. Providing our bodies with antioxidants not only prevents free radical damage from metabolic processes, but also arms our immune systems to ward off unnecessary viruses and other infections. Many health care providers are recommending antioxidant supplements since there are an increasing number of factors causing deficiencies in our bodies. Regularly boosting our immune systems can help to prevent disease and, therefore, improve our quality of life, traits giving merit to this trend. Chelsea Danchuk is a registered holistic nutritionist.

VISTA Magazine Issue 65

www.vistamagonline.com

Perfect your Body By Michelle Kwon

We’re always interested in celebrity secrets for maintaining a youthful body. One of their championed performance-enhancers is said to be a piece of “exercise” equipment that builds muscle, burns calories, increases circulation, improves flexibility, and even helps heal inju‑ ries – but it does the work for them!

t’s a resistance machine with a vibrating platform that provides results similar to weight training. Music icon Sting reportedly said, “Body vibration is a key component in helping the band feel and look our best. Taking it on the road made a big difference.” Director Clint Eastwood uses it, and stated, “Body vibration is a fast and effective strength workout, and I like it before a round of golf because it helps me be loose and flexible.” Model Elle MacPherson said, “After two weeks on it, I can already see a difference in my legs and stomach. Everything seems so much firmer.” The vibration platform stimulates the body’s natural response to sudden movement in your muscles and central nervous system. The machine’s vibrations transmit waves of energy, activating muscle contractions that help them stretch, tone and strengthen, but with low impact. The vibrating plate can be set so that rapid tiny movements in the muscles burn large amounts of energy in a short time to strengthen and define muscles, and increase athletic ability and weight loss. Soviet scientists adopted vibration training in the 1960s for cosmonauts to combat the muscle-weakening effects of living in zero gravity. Vibration training helps develop the type of explosive muscle power essential for playing sports, and increases range of motion, balance and coordination. Sports rehabilitation professionals including trainers for the Toronto Blue Jays, Calgary Flames, New York Giants, Anaheim Ducks, Philadelphia Flyers, and Olympic coaches also use vibration therapy. The vibrations are said to stimulate 95 to 100 percent of muscle fibres, whereas conventional training only uses 30 to 40 percent. There is little to no lactic acid build-up, which means after working on the platform there is no muscle soreness. During vibration training, blood circulation increases, improving muscle flexibility, removing waste more efficiently through increased lymph drainage, and helping bones grow stronger and denser. This exercise is said to raise growth hormone levels essential to repairing and regenerating tissue, and lower cortisol levels which help minimize the effects of stress.Though it doesn’t replace healthy exercise that’s vital to increase your cardiovascular strength, to trim, tone and treat injuries, this equipment may be the next “must-have” for a home gym.

Shake Away... Helps Increase... FAT

STAMINA

STRESS

MUSCLE MASS

CELLULITE

BONE DENSITY

ACHES & PAINS

ONLY ES 10 MINUETL TO FE

GREAT!

Pro Health 3

2195

Call 1-877-800-6383 Quality Guaranteed

Free Delivery - 2 Year Warranty

www.vibeyourlife.com VISTA Magazine Issue 65

Free Radicals Flu Colds Cancer Arthritis Chronic Diseases Infections Fight off cell damage with antioxidants to help keep your immune system strong! High levels of free radicals literally wreak havoc on your body leading to an overall feeling of weakness and lethargy. All of this can be minimized by antioxidant supplementation. NOW offers an extensive selection of premium quality at affordable prices.

Be sure to include an antioxidant to your daily routine!

Join the Orange Revolution

Available exclusively at fine health food retailers. For more information on the benefits of antioxidants, visit www.nowfoods.com