Green Earth | Rejuvenation Institute of Natural Health

What is Genetically Modified Food?

May 23, 2011February 19, 2012
by RejuvInstitute

Do you know what genetically modified food is? If not, you’re not alone. The general public knows very little about this incredibly important issue. This article will shed some light on the issue and hopefully help you decide whether or not to consume genetically modified foods.

What is genetically modified Food?

Genetically modified food is made from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This is produce (plants and animals) who’s DNA has been modified to produce specific outcomes. For example: Tomatoes do not survive temperatures below freezing, so in order to make them survive, scientists will genetically modify them. To do this, they take a specific gene from an arctic fish, put it in the tomato and voila! – genetically modified food. While this seems like a great idea, its benefits are unproven and it has very dangerous potential.

The Dangers of Genetically Modified Food

As a general rule of thumb, we would argue against genetically modified foods simply because we do not feel that it is possible to improve on God’s creation. That said, there are a variety of scientific concerns about genetically modified food as well.

For starters, experts like Beth H. Harrison, PhD say that “these modified foods aren’t being altered for the better; they do not resist pesticides, they do not increase yield and more importantly, they have not been proven safe for human consumption.”

Experts are worried about an array of immune, disease and allergy related dangers. In addition to posing a threat to us through consumption, these organisms have the capacity to upset the very balance of our planet. We already know that through reproduction, genetically modified organisms infiltrate the non-GMO produce in the area, eradicating natural options.

There is a battle taking place over genetically modified foods. For the time being, you can stand up against genetically modified food by simply purchasing organic, but there are powers who want to outlaw GMO and non-GMO labeling. They say that there is no difference between GMO and non-GMO. They are actively trying to eliminate your right to choose not to eat genetically modified foods.

Want to see just how little the general public knows about genetically modified foods? Check out this video:

Green Earth

The Perfect Balance of Health & Sustainability

May 21, 2011February 19, 2012
by RejuvInstitute

Beer bottles repurposed as drinking glasses, Anti GMO activists, electronic engine manufacturers, organic farm shares (CSA), green construction experts, water filtration specialists, sustainably made clothing, chiropractors and even a non-profit that turns plastic bags into mats for the homeless. Add a sea of progressive, inspired people to hundreds of unique products and what do you have? The Green Festival 2011.

Its hard not to be absorbed in the sense of hope that accompanies events like this and the highly addictive buzz is only fueled by tasty samples of
free trade chocolate, coffee, tea and the like.

One way or another, health benefits ooze from the pores of sustainable initiatives. After all, humans are every bit as much a part of nature as the animals and ecosystems that so many strive to protect. You can bet that if it is “healthy” for the earth, it is directly or indirectly healthy for you.

It’s hard, possibly even impossible not to get caught up in the aura of hope and excitement.

3 Exciting Products

1. 100% Plant Based Water Bottle by: Green Planet

This speaks for itself. Awesome product with great implications.

2. Vertical Hydroponic Garden by: Living Towers

These things are awesome! A garden that you can have almost anywhere, you never need to water and it grows fruits and vegetables in record time (seedling to salad in 4 weeks!). This contraption allows you to grow and consume organic produce like never before and uses 5% the amount of water it would take to grow the same produce in your garden.

Special Pricing! I caught up with Dr. David Albrecht and convinced him to extend the Green Festival special to every one of our readers. Be sure to mention “green fest” when ordering to receive a really nice free gift!

3. Mineral Water Filtration System by: Adya

Sorry for the video quality. My camera wouldn’t focus.

My Only Complaint

Too many unfermented soy products. Unfermented soy is thought by many health experts to contain toxic properties and also mimic estrogen in the body. Many experts say that the only safe way to eat is when it has been fermented by traditional methods (most isn’t). Just thought you should know.

All in all, a great event, not to be missed. Find a Green Festival near you by visiting www.greenfestivals.org

BPA

The Story of Bottled Water – Video

January 5, 2011February 19, 2012
by RejuvInstitute

In The Story of Bottled Water, storyofstuff.org sheds light on the fact that bottled water is no better for you than regular tap water. In fact, bottled water is bad for you, awful for the environment and costs thousands of times more than filtered tap water.

Green Earth

16 Everyday Tips for a Greener Life

April 28, 2010February 19, 2012
by RejuvInstitute

So I was digging through old magazines that were piling up and came across some great information in a past issue of Vive. It outlines some very practical ways to make your everyday life greener. As all of you know, a healthy earth equals a healthier you. I changed the order of things a little bit, but here we go.

1) Stop Drinking Bottled Water. Bottled water accounts for astronomical amounts of unnecessary waste, especially because it is much more efficient and better for nature (yourself included) to drink filtered tap water. Also, use a stainless steel or glass water bottle to avoid possible leaching of toxic chemicals from plastic bottles.

2) Donate Unwanted Items. The popularity of pre-owned goods is on the rise, keeping ridiculous amounts of perfectly good items out of landfills. A plethora of organizations are designed to make this process easy for those willing to donate. Many Salvation Army locations offer pickup services and items can be dropped off at any number of non-profit businesses. The Salvation Army sells what it can to fund charitable efforts and bundles the rest to be shipped off to third world countries. Finally, websites like www.FreeCycle.org and www.CraigsList.org make it possible to give away, trade or even sell your unwanted items to individuals in your local area.

3) When Possible, Buy Pre-Owned. This follows suit with donating unwanted items. Thrift shops and online communities are filled with quality items priced at a fraction of what their worth. I know most will not feel comfortable buying everything pre-owned, but the next time you go to purchase that wobbly, particle board desk that requires full assembly, think of the beautiful mahogany available for the same price. Read more “16 Everyday Tips for a Greener Life” →