Sports events exist to entertain people with skill and athleticism exhibited by the players. Whether it is football, baseball, soccer, or basketball and at many levels of competition; be it college, minor league, or major league, all of the players exude health and athleticism. However, when it comes to the fans, it can often be a completely different story. There is an irony that exists in that the lifestyles of the fans are often completely opposite from that of the players. The food stigma of watching sporting events is marked by artery clogging, cancer causing hot dogs, chili, pizza, nachos, and candy. This trend is not only at the live sporting events, but also at home and bars while watching the events on TV. However, I feel that Americans are becoming more concerned and educated about the adverse health effects from consuming these types of foods. Finally, people are aligning sports with healthy eating lifestyles.

There is a recent trend happening in stadiums across America which is helping people feel good physically and mentally and that is the inclusion of plant-based options at concessions. Not only are people making healthier choices for themselves, they are making the green choice due to the shockingly detrimental effects that animal products have on our environment (Steinfeld, et al., 2006).

The stadiums are also making the sustainable choice to offer veg friendly fare. For instance, Levi’s Stadium, home of the San Francisco 49ers is taking this trend and running with it. All of their concessions stands have at least one vegan item offered while over 20% of items on their menus are vegetarian and 17% are vegan (Meatless Monday, 2015).  Award winning concessions partner, Aramark is proud to announce their success at Citizens Bank Park, Citi Field, PNC Park, Coors Field, and Fenway Parks for their vegan fare such as tofu cheesesteak, mac & cheez, loaded backed potatoes, kale salad, quinoa burgers, and veggie rolls, burgers, and hot dogs (Aramark, 2015). Other big stadiums with veg offerings include the Cleveland Browns Firstenergy Stadium, , Dallas Cowboys AT&T Stadium, Sand Diego Padres Petco Park, and The Seattle Mariners Safeco Field (Meatless Monday, 2015).  

Stadiums like these are setting a precedent for others to follow. In fact, my hometown  minor league baseball team, The Hillsboro Hops offer a vegan burger by Field Roast! In fact, when I went to Field Roast’s website, their main screen showed a football stadium with “Meatless Monday Night Football”! Field Roast vegan sausages have been sold in bulk at Costcos near me for years now. It is a fairly easy task to make small steps at first which only requires some simple omissions of animal products such as making the bean chili meatless, offering a veggie pizza crust made without egg and no cheese, leave the pork out of baked beans, use vegetable oil in the fryers instead of animal fat, and fat free refried beans (no lard).

I believe that the future of veg options at sports concessions is going to continue to grow as there are more and more people becoming vegan and vegetarian. The food market has clearly shown the popularity of meatless products such as non-dairy milk and cheese products, and even egg free substitutes. The vegan movement is exploding due to people becoming more educated about how it benefits their health, animals, and the planet’s very survival. Every consumer’s choice to consume healthy, ecologically responsible food makes a difference in the supply chain and thus the world.
​
Best,
Kim

References:

Ammon, R., Southball, R. M., & Nagel, M. (2010). Sports Facility Management.  Morgantown, WV: Fitness Information Technology.

Aramark (2015). Aramark ballparks take 5 of top 10 spots on most vegetarian-friendly list. Retrieved from http://www.aramark.com/about-us/news/stadiums-arenas/peta-vegetarian-friendly-ballparks

Meatless Monday (2015). New report finds meatless sports concessions are a game changer. Retrieved from http://www.meatlessmonday.com/articles/new-report-finds-meatless-sports-concessions-are-a-game-changer/

Steinfeld H, Gerber P, Wassenaar T, et al. (2006). Livestock’s Long Shadow. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.  http://www.fao.org/docrep/010/a0701e/a0701e00.HTM

Do you know what kinds of benefits carbs provide?

• They give energy! Carbs are the chief source of energy for all body functions and muscular exertion.
• They are also the brain’s main fuel.
• They improve sports performance. Carbs do this by increasing time to exhaustion for exercise. To maximize this, consume 30-60g carbs for exercise lasting over 1 hour. A Sports beverage with carbs such as Gatorade is a great option as it also replaces electrolytes.
• Carbs help the body utilize protein and fat.
• Carbs regulate digestion.
• Carbs are protein sparing because energy needs will be meet by carbs thus saving protein for tissue repair and growth. Therefore, we do not want the body to use protein for energy which results in muscle wasting.
• Carbs provide much needed fiber.
• Carbs allows for max fat utilization. “Fat burns in the carb flame”. If an individual wants to lose fat, it can’t occur without sufficient carbs without resulting in “hitting the wall” which is like having no energy left.

What are the benefits of Protein?

• Once broken down into amino acids, it repairs body tissues.

But remember, consuming extra protein will not unleash a magic well of muscle building capacity!

Macronutrient Breakdown:
60% of daily calories should come from CARBS
25% of daily calories should come from FAT
15% of daily calories should come from PROTEIN

Reference:
Clark, M., Lucett, S., & Sutton, B. (2012). 4th Ed. Essentials of Personal Fitness Training. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. ISBN-13:978-1608312818

We have basically reached our planet’s carrying capacity which is illustrated by the fact that humanity would currently need 1.5 Earths to be sustainable (UNEP, 2012).  More specifically, we are consuming so much in one year that it takes the Earth one year and six months to regenerate (UNEP, 2012).  Furthermore, the majority of studies indicate that the ultimate carrying capacity of the Earth is 8 billion people, which will be attained in a mere 10 years (approximately) (UNEP, 2012).  In fact, the United Nations Environment Programme states that “a substantial reduction of (environmental) impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products” (PCRM, 2013).

The most essential and significant way in which humans can sustain on this planet is to eat lower on the food chain.  The meat and dairy industries are the highest producers of greenhouse gases even when compared to ALL of the transportation in the world (including freighter boats, trains, trucks, and commuter transport) (Global Environment Outlook 3, 2002; IPCC, n.d.; Robbins, 2011).  At our current rate, we are eating ourselves off the planet.  Initiatives should be in place to get people to stop consuming animal products by educating the public around the world (especially the U.S.) of the damage it is doing to not only the planet but also their individual health (the current health crisis also contributes to being unsustainable).   
Consuming ONE meal that contains animal products is equivalent to consuming approximately 3,000 gallons of water and 16 pounds of grain, whereas a plant-based meal only requires 300 gallons of water for an entire day (Campbell, Esselstyn et al., 2011; IPCC, n.d.; Robbins, 2011; PCRM, 2013)!  In addition, animal products are proven to cause cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other chronic and autoimmune diseases due to cholesterol, saturated fat, and carcinogenic animal proteins which are not present in plant proteins/foods (WPF, n.d.; Robbins, 2011; Campbell, Esselstyn et al., 2011; PCRM, 2013). 

The public needs help with rescinding the shroud of animal product marketing from their conscious and realizing that ultimate health for us and the planet is attained through eliminating animal product consumption and thriving on plant foods which contain all essential amino acids and an abundance of cancer fighting antioxidants, vitamins and minerals (WPF, n.d; PCRM, 2013).  Initiatives must also be put into place in order to control the marketing of the meat and dairy industries in order to properly educate people that beans and greens should be the focal point of attaining proper protein, calcium, iron, etc.  Additionally, cattle and pigs raised for consumption is drastically contaminating fresh water supplies in addition to deforestation for grazing at mind boggling rates (Global Environment Outlook 3, 2002; IPCC, n.d.; Robbins, 2011, PCRM, 2013). 

Take it from Einstein that “nothing will benefit human health and increase chances for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet”. 

-Kimberly Garrett

References:
Global Environment Outlook 3 (2002). Earthscan Publications Ltd/London, UK.  Retrieved January 13, 2013 from http://www.grida.no/geo/geo3/english/pdfs/synthesis.pdf
Robbins, J. (2011). The Food Revolution. San Francisco: Conari Press
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Reports. Retrieved January 13, 2013 and March 26, 2014 from http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_and_data_reports.shtml#.UPN7xfLhfxk
PCRM (Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine) (2013). Eating for the health of you and the Earth. Retrieved from http://www.pcrm.org/health/diets/ffl/newsletter/eating-for-the-health-of-you-and-the-earth
T. Colin Campbell, Caldwell B. Esselstyn Jr., et al. (2011). Forks Over Knives. Virgin Films & Entertainment.
UNEP (2012, June). One planet, how many people? A review of Earth’s Carrying Capacity. Retrieved from http://na.unep.net/geas/archive/pdfs/GEAS_Jun_12_Carrying_Capacity.pdf
World Preservation Foundation (WPF) (n.d.) Plant-Based Diets: A solution to our public health crisis. Retrieved from http://www.worldpreservationfoundation.org/Downloads/Plant-Based%20Diets%20-%20A%20solution%20to%20our%20public%20health%20crisis.pdf

I think it’s safe to say that everyone wants to be healthy and feel good! Right? Sometimes it takes willpower and even courage to climb out from under the rock we’ve been hiding under for so long.  However, it only takes one step…then one foot in front of the other….Pretty soon, we find ourselves in positive and healthy places we could never imagine. Listening to our bodies and taking the time to interpret the messages, whether they’re whispers or shouts, will inevitably lead us to the place that’s right for each of us and our body, our pocket book, our family, our country, and our planet will thank us for it.

Getting healthy means a lot in this country especially since our health care costs per capita exceed that of any other country in the world and yet the status of our health does not come close to show for it.  In fact, the U.S. spends more than twice as much on health per capita than countries like England and France who are comparable high income countries (Zuckerman, 2013). In fact, 7 out of 10 Americans are taking at least one prescription drug (Mayo Clinic, 2013). The top four drugs in this country are antibiotics, antidepressants, painkiller opioids (e.g., vicodin), and statins (cholesterol lowering drug) (Mayo Clinic, 2013). Note that the top drug is an antidepressant. Please take a look at my blog article The Importance of Nutrition for a Healthy Brain for more information on how consuming animal products can induce mental disorders.  Also, cholesterol lowering drugs are in the top four. Please take a mount to read my blog article Putting Control Back Into Home is Where Your Heart is concerning how animal products greatly put people at risk for high cholesterol and heart disease.

It appears that Americans are caught up in the pharmaceutical web because we are truly sick. When we are sick, we go to the doctor for guidance and according to the statistics, we walk out of the doctor’s office with an antibiotic, antidepressant, painkiller, and/or statin because our bodies are highly inflamed with compromised immune systems. Sometimes drugs are needed to survive. However, many times drugs are used as a crutch for poor nutrition (especially high intake of animal and processed foods). We must come to understand that doctors go to medical school to study medicine and not healthy lifestyles. So let’s take charge of our health and nutrition because we are the only ones who will! Let’s stand up on our own two feet instead of relying on a crutch that a doctor of medicine are trained and eager to provide for which are drugs to treat disease. Let’s get our bodies healthy through sustainable and inexpensive plant-based whole foods nutrition so that we won’t have to go to the doctor as a result of illness.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to resources such as my website and people like me for support and information on how to start and maintain a healthy lifestyle and thrive through plant-based whole foods. PCRM is also an excellent resource for information and their Starter Kit is a great tool to get you on your feat!

Best,

Kim

References:

Mayo Clinic (2013, June 19). Nearly 7 in 10 Americans Take Prescription Drugs, Mayo Clinic, Olmsted Medical Center Find. Retrieved from http://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/nearly-7-in-10-americans-take-prescription-drugs-mayo-clinic-olmsted-medical-center-find

Zuckerman, M. B. (2013, October 22). The high costs of staying well. U.S. News. Retrieved from: http://www.usnews.com/opinion/mzuckerman/articles/2013/10/22/why-health-care-costs-so-much-and-how-to-fix-it   

I feel that the chief health concern in our country is cardiovascular (heart) disease due to its fierce ranking as the #1 killer in America.  It is a raging war within our society that begins with our nation’s infants and yet the vast majority of Americans still are confused and misinformed about the armament for a cure.

Simply put, cardiovascular disease is comprised of a diseased heart and arteries and includes heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke (Kenney, 2012).  Cardiovascular disease is caused by inflammation in the vascular system (veins and arteries), more specifically damage to endothelium (the inner most layer of the arterial walls) which causes atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) (Kenney, 2012).   When a heart attack or stroke strikes, it can cause irreversible damage to the brain or heart.  However, the majority of the time, death is the diagnosis.  Kenney soberly indicates “Atherosclerosis [narrowing of the arteries due to plaque (pus/fat and cholesterol) buildup] is not a disease of the aged.  Rather, it is more appropriately classified as a pediatric disease because the pathological changes that lead to atherosclerosis begin in infancy and progress during childhood” (2012, p. 524).  According to countless studies, this is entirely diet related.  Children, let alone adults cannot naturally rid their bodies of the saturated fat and cholesterol through the consumption of animal products (the only types of food that contain cholesterol is from animals and their byproducts, as plant-based foods contain zero cholesterol).

The 80 million people in America who have cardiovascular disease right now (The Heart Foundation), will likely undergo a bypass surgery and/or angioplasty in an attempt to preserve their lives.  However, studies indicate that only 2% of bypass surgeries will actually prolong life and furthermore, zero angioplasties will prevent further heart attacks and prolong life (Robbins, 2011)!  However, the solution of plant-based nutrition (in addition to ceasing smoking) is easily attainable for the 80 million people in American who have cardiovascular disease in addition to the remaining 237 million Americans who live in this country and who are all at grave risk for cardiovascular disease (US Census Bureau). 

As for heart disease being a hereditary disease, that is what the meat industry would love for us to continue to believe.   The agenda of the Beef Eater Guide to Modern Meat is to put out press releases to protect their industry and to confuse the public by saying “Your genetics are a prime determinant of whether you will get atherosclerosis and heart disease.  If your parents and grandparents had it, then you are a candidate; if they didn’t have it, your risk is much lower” (Robbins, 2011, p. 21).  This clearly is not the case.  Dr. Michael Debakey, Director, Cardiovascular Research Center explains that heredity (meaning that family members have high incidences) of heart disease “only constitutes about 5% of the cases.  Most people (who develop heart disease) don’t really have a hereditary disease” (Robbins, 2011, p. 21). 

Doctors Esselstyn and Ornish have been conducting research programs that involve people who had very serious and advanced cardiovascular disease with many prior and repeat cardiac events and surgeries.  In each of the physician’s programs, their practices are very simple and impressively effective.  They place their patients on a low fat plant-based diet which not only does it cut off the packing in of cholesterol and saturated fat into the arteries, it also prevents inflammation and allows the body to naturally repair damaged tissue (Esselstyn, 2007).  This allows the patients’ “rapid restoration of the endothelial cells’ capacity to manufacture nitric oxide, and that, in turn, restore[s] circulation” (Esselstyn, 2007, p. 44).  Within just a couple of weeks of being in the programs, they all became heart attack proof and about 95% of them are alive and well over a decade later (Robbins, 2011).

Many of us get caught up with how the outside of our body looks and how others view our physique so we put in hours at the gym to improve our looks or even go as far as forming eating disorders, but we often neglect what the inside looks like by making misinformed food choices.  I would make a bet that if we wore our arteries on the outsides of our bodies, we sure as heck would be more diligent about keeping them clean of pus/plaque through foregoing the consumption of animal products.  We have no more excuses, we are empowered to make a choice and to change.


By Kimberly Garrett

Just in time for fall! My Healthy Caramel Sauce is super easy to make and happens to be a perfect snack for adults and kids! This sauce is so tasty on farm fresh apples in the fall time.  Tart green apples also work great.

1 cup cashews, raw (ground)
1 cup dates (pitted)
½ cup soy milk
1-2 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp sea salt


First, soak the dates for a couple of hours in some water. Finely grind the cashews in a food processor and set aside.  Then once the dates are done soaking, remove them from the water and place them into the food processor with the soy milk and blend until smooth.  Add ground cashews, vanilla, and sea salt and blend until desired consistency.

Enjoy!

There are five macronutrients in the diet: Carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, and water. Carbs, protein, and fat are the main three that you hear about. Proper nutrition is extremely important and vital to athletes and non-athletes alike and I am very excited to share some of my findings during my passionate endeavors for superior health.  Unfortunately, there are landfill sized mounds of misleading and highly marketed so-called “medical” recommendations when it comes to certain food groups and nutrients.  The government’s very own recommendations concerning protein, calcium, and cholesterol are often highly contradictory, throwing Americans into even deeper confusion. Not to mention that the government is saying to eat less meat and more milk but yet one glass of 1% milk contains over twice the calories, over a third more cholesterol, and more saturated fat than one strip of bacon!


Let’s start with some exciting facts to chew on:  Plant proteins are packed full of complete protein, antioxidants, fiber, and nutrients whereas animal proteins are packed full of saturated fat, cholesterol and inflammatory cancer causing proteins - and yes, even skinless chicken breast which has about the same amount of cholesterol as steak.  If you’re worried about protein (as many athletes and weight lifters are) take a look at the countless plant-based (vegan) professional sports athletes, Ironman athletes, super-marathon runners, professional triathletes, Olympians, MMA fighters, bodybuilders, etc. who are loving their superhero-like abilities.  Let’s just name a few of them:  Arian Foster, Dave Scott, Robert Parrish, Brendan Brazier, Scott Jurek, Carl Lewis, Mike Tyson, Ricky Williams, Venus and Serena Williams, Billie Jean King, Jake Shields, Herschel Walker, Lizzie Armistead, Bill Pearl, Rich Roll, etc., etc… but let’s not forget the Shaolin monks and even the Tarahumara Indians who are the most extreme natural long distance runners on the planet.

It is very sad and in fact downright scary that 3 cups per day of the “Milk group” are recommended by the USDA’s guidelines.  Current research and groups who are not influenced by the dairy industry are trying to straighten out the confusion and are setting the facts straight.  You may have heard of Harvard University?   Harvard’s response to the USDA’s ludicrous dairy recommendations was to instead consume greens, beans, and soy milk to get proper calcium intake.  They also set the record straight by pointing out the unbiased and accurate scientific research which squashes the recommended dairy intake by the USDA in that it actually increases the risk of certain cancers and even bone loss!  (see my blog post “Milk…Does a Body Bad” dated 11/5/12.)

It is also very unfortunate and probably very surprising for some people that some of the government’s dietary guidelines (specifically the USDA) are laced with massive subsidizing and political revolving doors.   This explains the mounds of contradictory information being poured into the fabric of our society. Take a gander at the documentary Food Inc. as well as other media listed in my “Favorites” page if you want to learn more. (Also see my blog post “Agri-Business-Subsides and Lobbying for Our Money” dated 1/18/13)

Weight lifters, athletes, recreational exercisers, and yes, even the couch potatoes often go to misguided extreme lengths when it comes to protein which is unfortunate because I have worked with some who are still very young but are facing kidney failure, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis due to buying into bogus industry’s marketing claims about animal protein.  This is due to the fact that not only does excess unused protein convert into fat (not muscle) which is really the least of our worries, it is detrimental to the kidneys, digestive system, cardiovascular system, immune system, and the body’s inflammation factor.  Protein is not even a source for fuel at all. Athletes need a high intake of carbohydrates (whole-foods, complex carbs) in order to build up their glycogen stores in their muscles.  This allows the athlete to use the glycogen stores for fuel which is what gives them endurance and longevity – not protein!  When an athlete or even recreational exerciser buys into a low-carb high protein diet, they will get fatigued easily and much more quickly than someone who eats about 60-70% of calories from carbs.  The average person needs about .32 grams of protein per pound of body weight (about 10% of calories from protein).  That equates to a 180 lb person needing only 58 grams of protein per day which is easily attainable through a whole foods plant-based diet.  As for athletes, there is quite a lot of controversy and misinformation but research suggests that simply eating about 10 additional grams of protein pre and post workout is more than enough to aid in muscle maintenance.

References:

Campbell, T. C. (2006). The China Study. Dallas: BenBella Books

Esselstyn, R. (2013). My Beef With Meat. New York: Grand Central Life & Style

Robbins, J. (2011). The Food Revolution. San Francisco: Conari Press

Take Part (2012). 18 Food Inc. facts everyone should know. Retrieved from www.takepart.com/photos/food-inc-facts/monsanto-in-1950

I went to Dr. Neal Barnard’s book signing/talk at Powell’s Books in Portland on April 11, 2013 for his new book, “Power Foods for the Brain”.  It was so great to see Dr. Barnard spreading the word on how powerful food is in relationship to brain function. This subject is especially exciting because when I did my research article “The Importance of Nutrition for a Healthy Brain and Successful Learning” (which is dated October 30, 2012 on my blog), I got the feeling that many lay researchers, medical doctors, and psychologists have been disassociating the reality that foods significantly affects brain function.  I was very happy to hear Dr. Barnard talk about how we all need to spread the word of much food does in fact impact how the brain works because he also has encountered many medical professionals who are oblivious of this.  For some reason the average American, and sadly even medical professionals, think that what goes on in our brains is magically isolated from the complex chemicals, nutrients, vitamins and minerals which our stomach processes to fuel our brains throughout every day of our lives.

Dr. Barnard discussed how animal foods (meat, fish, diary, and eggs) contain high amounts of saturated fat, cholesterol, and other damaging chemicals that significantly increase the chances of not only Alzheimer’s (which is of course considered a very serious mental disease) but also, “Mild Cognitive Impairment” (which occurs much earlier than Alzheimer’s)!  Our “Fast Food Nation” is becoming more and more saturated with animal fats, thus causing saturation of mental impairments in America ranging from ADD to Alzheimer’s.

The bottom line is, eating a whole-foods plant-based diet does in fact greatly protect your brain and Dr. Barnard strongly and effectively supports this through medical research involving live people.  

-Kimberly Garrett

Reference: 

Neal Barnard, MD (April 11, 2013). Powell's Books Speech for "Power Foods for the Brain".

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are becoming an increasingly urgent topic of discussion among Americans.  Remember Frankenstein? Well, that’s the kind of stuff I’m talking about here.  Unfortunately, scientist initially never knew what they were getting themselves into by modifying the DNA of organisms which we eat, thus creating unethical and unsafe GMOs for our food supply.  The consumption of GMOs is linked to many health issues such as allergies, fertility problems, and stomach problems. Not to mention, we do not yet know what exactly GMOs are doing to our own DNA! Also, despite GMO supporters' lies, pesticides are actually being used more on GMO foods and the pesticides are actually genetically placed into the food’s DNA!  This is scary stuff that needs to be addressed now.

The Oregon House Committee is trying to prevent the spread of GMO agriculture and wildlife and is currently holding hearings. Their website is www.gmofreeoregon.org and their agenda is simple; make Oregon a GMO free state. Please take some time to click on the link to www.gmofreeoregon.org and look around. Try to learn something today that you have never heard of and maybe do the same again tomorrow. If you would like some directions so you are not lost in another information website, try starting in the “About” page and learn about the source. Decide if their mission statement makes sense. Next move is the “About GMOs” page. See what it is you are fighting for.  Best of all, try and make it to the “Take Action” page and see how you can advocate for this very important cause even in your own home. 

The biggest way you can protect yourself and your family from GMOS is the next time you go to the grocery store, remember to look for “Certified Organic” and “Non GMO” or “GMO Free”.  Technically, when an item such as tofu has the Certified Organic label, it automatically means that it is GMO free but it is reassuring to see the GMO Free label as well.  My top food items that I consider the most important to buy organic is tofu and soy products, wheat products, and corn. I also buy most of my veggies and fruit organic as well.  In addition, try out Trader Joe's because they have a huge variety of organic products at very reasonable prices, such as beans, pasta, tomato sauce, oatmeal, corn, tofu, tempeh, nut milks, and many others! Happy shopping!

The Great Depression brought about a series of acts starting in 1933 concerning corporate welfare and agriculture policy (USDA). The Agriculture Act of 1949 is the permanent piece of legislation in effect today even though there are subsequent temporary laws that are put into place in order to keep current with the ever-changing economy. Once our current farm bill expires, it will revert back to the Agriculture Act of 1949 which is the permanent law concerning Agriculture subsidies (Caldwell, 2012).

Whether or not current agriculture policy (corporate welfare) has been successful depends on who you ask.  If you ask agri-business giants who make up 10% of the farms collecting subsidies, they received 75% of the $277.3 billion in subsidies during 1995 through 2011 (EWG). However, 62% of US farms did not collect any subsidies at all (EWG). So it appears that if you ask the majority farms, the policy controlling subsidies was not successful.  However, the subsidies are becoming the bread and butter for the 10% of farms in the US and they are fighting relentlessly by lobbying Capitol Hill in order to keep American tax money by pushing a new bill to override the Act of 1949.

Big interest corporations virtually control much of our government by being a huge participant in writing the very legislation they are lobbying for.  The argument that we hear time and again is that if it weren’t for our big business friends lobbying for their own welfare, the prices of milk, meat, and wheat would rise for consumers.  Of course this gets the average American shaking in their boots.  But what many of us don’t realize is that we are already paying these big businesses billions of dollars every year from our pockets in the first place!  More importantly, the products that would rise in price (e.g., dairy products, meat, and processed foods) are the very foods that are causing the epidemics of modern society (e.g., cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and global warming) and thus also bolstering the healthcare crisis (Campbell, 2006; Campbell et al., 2011; Robbins, 2011; IPCC).

Animal agriculture including the beef, chicken, dairy, and pork industries rely on lobbying in order to have control over their markets and make big money off of our tax dollars.  They also now have heinous control over our government.  Take for instance how the FDA conducted 50,000 inspections for food safety in 1972 but only conducted 9,164 in 2006 (Take Part, 2012). Perhaps this might have something to do with the fact that when Bush was in office, James F. Fitzgerald was the USDA chief of staff but was formerly the chief lobbyist for the Washington beef industry (Take Part, 2012). In addition, Lester M. Crawford, Jr. was the head of the FDA during the Bush administration but was formerly the Vice President of the National Food Processors Association (Take Part, 2012).

I feel that there needs to be legislation put into place as to regulating how big businesses can lobby for our tax money.  Due to the government becoming interweaved with corporate welfare and visa-versa, there needs to be a gradual decrease in the subsidies given out to big business interests and evened out to distribute funds to small produce farms and businesses to help bring produce prices down.  I would also back initiatives and campaigns in place to support fresh whole foods to low income communities. The country and the world would benefit in many ways (e.g., eliminating and/or decreasing the top killers in America, our healthcare costs, effects of global warming, deforestation, etc.) from greatly reducing the production and consumption of animal based and processed foods and replacing them with fresh produce and whole-foods (Campbell, 2006; Campbell et al., 2011; Robbins, 2011; IPCC).

-Kimberly Garrett

References:

Caldwell, J. (2012, October 1). Agriculture.com. Retrieved from http://www.agriculture.com/news/policy/farm-bill-lapses-whats-next_4-ar26646
Campbell, T. C. (2006). The China Study. Dallas: BenBella Books.
Campbell, T.C., Esselstyn, C.B. Jr., et al. (2011). Forks Over Knives. Virgin Films & Entertainment.
Environmental Working Group (EWG) - Farm Subsidies. The United States summary information. Retrieved from http://farm.ewg.org/region.php?fips=00000
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Reports. Retrieved from http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_and_data_reports.shtml#.UPN7xfLhfxk
Robbins, J. (2011). The Food Revolution. San Francisco: Conari Press.
USDA. Food distribution programs history and background. Retrieved from http://www.fns.usda.gov/fdd/aboutfd/history.htm
Take Part (2012). 18 Food Inc. facts everyone should know. Retrieved from www.takepart.com/photos/food-inc-facts/monsanto-in-1950

Animal protein is harmful to your health!  According to the World Health Organization, our protein requirement is 5-15% of total calorie consumption.  The US recommends 10% protein of total calorie intake.  However, the meat industry dangerously recommends 30% of protein from calories.  But get this, “Kwashiorkor” is the leading disease caused from inadequate protein intake.  Never heard of it?  Well that's because the number of Kwashiorkor cases in the US is ZERO (0).  More importantly, the primary diseases from eating too much protein are osteoporosis and kidney disease – which claims tens of millions of cases in the US.   Why are we so insistent on purposely inflicting diseases on ourselves in the name of health? Because the meat industry spends billions of dollars per year in advertising and releasing bogus health (marketing) reports with no actual scientific backing.  The name of the game for the meat industry is making money (billions) and not public health.

Essential Amino Acids.  To get a little more technical, the protein needed for human consumption is comprised of amino acids.  There are 9 essential amino acids that many people are concerned about getting enough of in order to maintain and build lean muscle mass. Vegetables, grains, and legumes proficiently provide all 9 essential amino acids.  Also, according to the American Dietetic Association, it is a myth that vegetarians must make specific combinations in order to build a “complete protein”.  This is a myth because scientific research has shown that combining certain foods are in fact not necessary at all, as long as vegetables, grains, and legumes are in your diet on a daily basis.

Protect against disease!  Keep in mind that all animal proteins are completely void of fiber! Whereas vegetables, legumes, and grains are loaded with not only fiber but protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants! Fiber is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting against certain cancers and other chronic illnesses. Not only are all animal proteins void of fiber, they are loaded with cholesterol and saturated fat when plant-based foods have ZERO cholesterol and rarely any saturated fat.

If you’re still concerned about protein, here are some excellent sources of protein-packed plant-based foods:

• Seitan – 4 oz = 24 grams of Protein

• Tofu – ½ cup = 20 grams of Protein

• Lentils – 1 cup = 18 grams of Protein

• Black beans – 1 cup = 15.2 grams of Protein

• Chickpeas – 1 cup = 14.5 grams of Protein

Think about how much protein is indicated above…now think about how an ounce of meat contains approximately 7 grams of protein but has zero fiber and about 50 mg of cholesterol! That is a recipe for cancer, heart/vascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

An interesting fact: It is a fact that human DNA is more closely related to chimpanzees than the DNA of horses and donkeys (who can have offspring together).  Chimpanzees eat a 99% vegetarian diet.  The 1% is mostly comprised of insects.

- Kimberly Garrett

References:    
Campbell, T. C. (2006). The China Study. Dallas: BenBella Books
Robbins, J. (2011). The Food Revolution. San Francisco: Conari Press
Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)
United States Department of Agriculture

Still concerned about protein? Check this short video out coming from a bodybuilder!

The dairy industry spends $190 million per year in advertising.  The promotion of eating fruits and vegetables by the National Cancer Institute is $1 million per year.  I'm sure you could recall all the “Got Milk” mustache billboards, commercials, and ads claiming that cow's milk is vital for health and reaching calcium requirements.  However, have you ever wondered why the milk cartons and yogurt tubs do not contain any claim of health benefits whatsoever?  The reason why is that it would be against the law to put false and misleading health claims on packaging because the packaging laws are much more strict than advertising regulations. Packaging laws actually require there to be scientific backing to claims.  In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found zero evidence that consuming milk lowers the risk of osteoporosis. In fact, dairy is extremely inflammatory to a person's body – causing all sorts of inflammation related problems such as arthritis, hives, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer's, and more importantly cancer.

Get this, a 12 year Harvard Nurses' Health Study reported that 78,000 women who drank at least 2 cups of milk per day almost doubled their risk of bone fractures.  The scientific evidence is very far off from the highly misleading and false “Milk, Does a Body Good” claims.

Did you know that cow's milk is meant to turn a 90 lb calf into a 450 lb cow in one year?  Well-known and outspoken physicians are publicly recommending to not consume diary products – these physicians include: “Frank Oski, MD (former Director Department of Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Physician-in-Chief, John Hopkins Children's Center), Benjamin Spock, MD, Neal Barnard, MD, John McDougall, MD, Michael Klaper, MD, Robert Kradjian MD, Charles Attwood, MD, and many others” (The Food Revolution).
 
If you're still wondering about Calcium, this should help to clarify:

According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people are only able to absorb 32% of calcium from milk.  Whereas 64% is absorbed from brussel sprouts and 53% is absorbed from broccoli. Actual scientific research is grotesquely opposite from the marketing claims of the dairy industry.  Ironically, a dairy funded study (that was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition) found that postmenopausal women who drank 5 glasses of milk per day (containing 1500 mg of calcium) actually lost more calcium than the control group! Nice job dairy industry - money well spent!

Fact:  Finland, Sweden, US, and UK have the highest rates of dairy consumption.  These same exact countries also have the highest rates of  osteoporosis! Coincidence, I don't believe so. Believing the false claims of the dairy industry is costing Americans their health.

-Kimberly Garrett

References:  
Campbell, T. C. (2006). The China Study. Dallas: BenBella Books
Robbins, J. (2011). The Food Revolution. San Francisco: Conari Press

Why is fish oil so popular? It's because the DHA and EPA in fish oil decreases inflammation, which is why it helps inflamed joints and arteries. However, Fish Oil does a one-two action by cancelling out the good with the bad.  The only reason fish has anything good in them to eat is by them eating algae which is what contains DHA and EPA.  I get DHA and EPA direct from the source and avoid the middle man (i.e., fish) while avoiding chemicals and toxins and the increased risk for cancer.  
  
This is where I get my DHA and EPA and its cost is comparable to fish oil!...

 It is vital to consider balanced nutrition for students and people of all ages as it plays an integral role in how the brain processes and retains information. Scholastic performance and memory are directly linked to what people feed themselves every day. Poor diet leads to compromised cognition, while a balanced diet containing proper vitamins and minerals fosters optimal brain function (Toni & Charles, 2011). “Everything the brain does, begins with the raw materials you put into it: the air you breathe, the water you drink, and, last but far from least, the food you eat” (Rimland, 2007, p. 75). Not only is food vital to create the proper chemical levels to transmit information, nutrients are also directly related to building brain cells.

Learning is the “process of acquiring knowledge or skill” (Learning, 1988, p. 765). People acquire new knowledge and skills in many different and unique ways. However, the capacity in which people are able to do so is dependent on many factors including one of high importance: nutrition. Nutrition plays a large and critical role in the level and capacity of our brain functions (Rimland, 2007). Rimland indicates that “Your brain and your gut are exquisitely interconnected, and what you eat has a lot to do with how well you think” (2007, p. 75).

Research suggests that Americans are eating themselves into a fog due to the foods that a typical American consumes. Cognitive diseases that were once believed to be psychologically related are actually directly related to nutrition. The brain conditions and diseases resulting from eating a diet stripped of nutrients can be as severe as learning disabilities such as ADD, hyperactivity, and dyslexia (Rimland, B., 2007).

Memory is also a key player of proper brain function. “Healthy brains retain and improve their cognitive and memory capacities. Loss of mental function includes death of neurons and impaired communication between brain cells” (Kalush, 2012). If a person would like to improve and maintain their memory, the proper foods consumed may greatly improve the life and vitality of neurons and brain cells. The health of neurons are important in making appropriate connections for remembering key facts and information in daily life and learning (Kalush, 2012).

Recent studies suggests that learning in public schools has become more challenging than ever. As noted by Rimland (2007), Appleton Central Alternative High School was on the brink of destruction from violent and unruly teenagers. Not unlike many schools of today, they had to bring in a police officer in an attempt to keep the peace. However, the children of Appleton High did a complete 360 by taking out all junk foods in their lunches and replacing it with non-processed foods such as whole vegetables, fruits, and grains. Even the soda machines were replaced with low-sugar drinks. Ever since the school switched to a whole-foods diet, they have reported zero incidences such as violence or expulsions! The superintendent exclaimed, “We believed it would help settle the kids down, which it has done, but I think we were surprised at the impact that it's had on academic learning” (Rimland, 2007, p. 79).

The results that Appleton High experienced suggests that there is a simple solution to achieving a higher level of academia in schools–replacing junk foods with whole-foods. Dr. Kalush indicates in his 2012 article that the brain will have significant benefits from a person eating a whole-foods, plant-based diet. Foods containing vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants such as fruits and vegetables are key for keeping the inflammation in the body down, decreasing risk for disease and increasing brain power. “research has shown that such diets can prevent or lessen processes leading to Alzheimer’s dementia as well as improving cognitive and memory functions” (Kalush, 2012, p. 1).

There are specific vitamins and minerals that are key players in maintaining a high level of cognitive function. For instance, an iron deficiency can result in impaired learning or even violence (Rimland, 2007). Many behavioral conditions such as ADHD and depression have been linked to deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids (Rimland, B., 2007). Chronic low levels of vitamin B12 can lead to many cognitive problems such as “spatial skills, short-term memory, and fluid intelligence” (Rimland, 2007, p. 84). Learning issues and memory problems have also been linked to zinc deficiencies.

The best place to get these vital nutrients are from plant-based sources as they do not contain the cholesterol, antibiotics, and hormones that animal meat has. When a person consumes animal meat, they consume dangerous cholesterol and saturated fat that clog arteries which can cut off blood supply to the brain (PETA 2012). The brain needs blood flow in order for it to receive vital nutrients to function.

Research shows that zinc, vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids are a few key nutrients for optimal brain function (Rimland, 2007). Zinc is found in nuts, legumes (such as beans and lentils), and whole grains (such as wheat, barley, and millet) (PETA 2012). Vitamin B12 originates from the dirt and is best received through nutritional yeast or supplements. Great iron sources are spinach, nuts, seeds, legumes, and molasses (PETA, 2012). Walnuts and flax seeds are a great place for omega-3 fatty acids as well as DHA supplements which is a form of algae (PETA, 2012). This form of DHA is much safer than consuming fish products as fish is full of cholesterol and toxins (PETA, 2012). Dr. Kalush (2012) recommends 10 super brain foods: “Blueberries, cooked artichokes, black plums, pecans, blackberries, walnuts, raspberries, raw asparagus, strawberries, and red cabbage.” These foods contain a wide range of key nutrients and anti-oxidants for the brain.

Not only are vitamins and minerals vital for learning, consuming the appropriate amount of calories (energy) in each day is equally important. It is vital to regulate the amount of calories one consumes to ensure they do not over or under consume. If a person under consumes calories for the day, they will not have enough energy for the brain to feed off of. If one over consumes, the digestive system will be working overtime which is a dis-proportioned way to expend energy. The brain needs amino acids (protein) to function properly. Good sources of amino acids can be found in many, many foods, but the best sources are legumes, soybeans, broccoli, oats, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and spinach (PETA, 2012). Getting the appropriate amounts of food throughout each day is also required in order to maintain a positive disposition, high level of attention, and good motivation (Toni & Charles, 2011). According to Toni, M. B., & Charles H. H., (2011), even skipping breakfast causes a marketable decline in school children's brain function.

There are many consequences to poor nutrition. Adverse consequences can be avoided by simply adopting a balanced plant-based diet. However, Rimland explains that deficiencies in nutrients can "lead to sub-clinical, easy-to-overlook brain dysfunction that translates into hyperactivity, poor attention, irritability, depression, mania, or learning or memory problems” (2007, p. 77). Doctors who treat children with dyslexia, hyperactivity and other learning issues are reporting that they have seen a dramatic rise in cases just within the last 10 years and the demand for special education is exploding (Rimland, B., 2007).

A diet full of vitamins and minerals can protect a child from developing learning disabilities and behavioral problems. By avoiding the onset of these conditions, it will make a smoother lifetime of learning which will save a family from opening their pocketbooks to healthcare and tutoring expenses. Not having to rely on expensive tutors, doctors, and other practitioners will allow a person and their family to be more independent and less burdensome on society and loved ones.

Benefits of proper nutrition for better scholastic performance and learning capacity can be experienced all throughout life. Everything that a person consumes directly correlates with how their brain functions and their susceptibility to diseases and disorders of the brain. Research clearly shows that the increase of plant-based whole-foods can increase a person's cognitive function and scholastic achievement. By adopting a lifestyle of eating balanced foods with key vitamins and minerals, a person can enjoy a healthy brain to lead them through all stages of life and learning.

References

Kalush S. (August 31, 2012). To your health, be good to your brain. Message posted to http://www.friendshipcenters.org/WhatsNew/Blogs/tabid/142/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/133/To-Your-Health-Be-Good-to-Your-Brain.aspx

Learning. (1988) In Webster's New World Dictionary (3rd Ed.). New York, NY: Webster's New World Dictionaries A Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc.

PETA (2012). A vegan’s guide to good nutrition. Retrieved September 16, 2012 from http://www.PETA.org/living/vegetarian-living/a-vegans-guide-to-good-nutrition.aspx

Rimland, B. (2007). Dyslogic syndrome: why millions of kids are 'hyper', attention-disordered, learning disabled, depressed, aggressive, defiant, or violent and what we can do about it. London GBR: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Toni, M. B., & Charles H. H., (2011). A narrative review of physical activity, nutrition, and obesity to cognition and scholastic performance across the human lifespan. Advances in Nutrition, an International Review Journal, 2(2), 201S–206S. doi: 10.3945/an.111.000331  

The United Nations recently reported that animal food production causes more greenhouse gases (that cause global warming) than all the CO2 emissions from all of the vehicles in the world! By eating animals, people are consuming about 500% more food than what would be possible from eating plant-based foods.  (Forks Over Knives, 2011) 

The average American eats approximately 270 animals in one year! That's about 21,000 consumed animals in one lifetime!  We truly are what we eat...disease and misery as that is the life of an animal born to the meat industry. 

The only way the world is going to change is by people like you and me making conscious decisions everyday to cut out the animal products in our diet.  Doing so is by far the healthiest thing you can do for yourself and your plant. Plant-based foods are rich in micro-nutrients that your body needs for optimal functioning!  

I hope to inspire people to become more aware of their personal and planetary health. Americans are in dire need of an unveiling and of a new hope. Our bodies are not meant for the junk that people feed themselves everyday (i.e., processed foods, animal products, and fried foods). Parents take huge measures to keep bleach and other cleaning products safely away from their children but because foods aren't actually labeled as a cleaning agent, toxic or dangerous, they don’t realize the poisoning effects certain foods have on their own children and themselves. At the rate we are going, we are thoroughly poisoning our children, ourselves, and our planet and it is becoming painfully obvious everyday.    

• Saves approx. 3,000 gallons of water. Replacing 4 ounces of beef to one vegan option saves 3,000 gallons of water!
  
• Saves approx. 16 lbs of grain. Cows consume 16 times as much grain as they produce as meat!
  
• Save money and health. Extend life by years and quality of life is higher by practically eliminating risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. 
  

 
References:

T. Colin Campbell, Caldwell B. Esselstyn Jr., et al. (2011). Forks Over Knives. Virgin Films & Entertainment.

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Reports. Retrieved January 13, 2013 from http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_and_data_reports.shtml#.UPN7xfLhfxk