Trace mineral lithium really does curb violent crime, depression and suicide

The word lithium frequently conjures images of catatonic psychiatric patients and side effects so severe that premature death is commonplace. But naturally occurring lithium is a far cry from pharmaceutical grades. Found in the soil, water and certain foods, it is an essential mineral for maintaining physical and mental health. When exposure is low, suicide rates, mental illness and violent crime increase.

Mental well-being influenced by trace mineral intake

Lithium has a long history of use in the treatment of mental disorders. However, it hasn't been until recently that scientists began exploring the psychiatric implications of naturally occurring lithium in the water supply. As stated in the article, Foods Rich in Lithium And Lithium Supplements:

"Research suggests that locations with the highest concentration of lithium tend to have the lowest rates of depression and violent crime. These studies have been conducted across the globe in different climates with different natural habits and diets. Researchers have therefore concluded that this phenomenon is fairly universal."

Superfood Blueberry Galette with Hazelnut

As we approach Thanksgiving, I wanted to include a recipe that highlights several traditional Native American superfoods. For those of you unfamiliar with mesquite flour, you are in for a treat. This novel flour is gluten free and nutrient packed. It is a rich source of protein and fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron and zinc along with the amino acid lysine. Mesquite flour has a mildly sweet, nutty flavor that lends itself well to baking. Blueberries, hazelnuts, and maple syrup were also important staples in the tribal diet. Blueberries provide ample antioxidants that help counteract free radicals and protect against cataracts, heart disease, and cancer. Hazelnuts are a wonderful source of vitamin E and folate together with carotenoids, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins which help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer. Although not considered an absolute superfood, maple syrup has high levels of zinc and manganese, both of which are immune boosters. More information can be found here.

{Paleo-Friendly} Warming Vegan Chai

Next time you are savoring a creamy cup of Indian chai tea, here's something to ponder: The characteristic spicy flavor is also what makes chai outrageously healthy. Cinnamon, ginger, clove, anise and black tea are superfoods in their own right and should be enjoyed often. What better way than in a delicious, warming brew? The trick is to make your own -- commercial varieties are loaded with sugar, pasteurized dairy and other unsavory ingredients which negate any health enhancing features.

The spice of life

Chai is unique in its complexity of flavor and nutritional bounty. Cinnamon, ginger, clove and anise are the main spicy stars of the tea, although variations can be found it different regions throughout India. Each spice carries its own distinctive health enriching qualities.

How to grow your own superfoods this winter

No need to bypass all the health perks of fresh superfoods this winter—simply grow them inside on a sunny window ledge. As the weather turns colder, now more than ever it is important to fortify the body with nutrient dense foods. What better way than with unprocessed superfoods? An economical and fun undertaking, cultivating a micro-superfood garden is easier than you may think.

With food costs skyrocketing this season, consumers are looking for novel ways to stay nourished on a budget. Windowsill gardens combine the virtues of space saving French intensive gardening with easy to grow plants—providing a frugal solution for high food prices.

Antibiotic use on organic apples and pears proves unnecessary -- Here's how to end the madness and protect yourself

When we relish a delicious organic apple or pear, we usually don't suspect we are also ingesting a mouthful of antibiotics. As shocking as this may seem, it's yet another dirty little secret of the certified organic industry in the U.S. Used to control a tree born bacterial infection, antibiotics are sprayed on susceptible varieties of trees—leaving residues on fruit to be consumed far and wide. And inflaming concern over antibiotic overuse in the process.

An unfortunate truth

Generally, antibiotics are shunned by organic aficionados and natural health advocates alike. The dangers of antibiotic resistant superbugs and devastation of beneficial bacteria in the body are enough reason to seek alternatives. But consumers who eat organic apples or pears may be inadvertently ingesting tetracycline and streptomycin—two antibiotics used to combat common infections of the lung, middle ear and urinary tract as well as more life threatening diseases like tuberculosis, plague and cholera. Unfortunately, when antibiotics are overused they eventually become ineffective, leaving us high and dry for when the medicine is truly needed. Antibiotics also ravage the intestinal tract, destroying the good bacteria that help to keep us disease free. All in all, consuming antibiotics haphazardly in food is not ideal.

Cure eczema the natural way

A painful and often debilitating disease, eczema is a skin disorder that is suffered by millions. Frequently treated with steroids, the immune system is further compromised—inflaming the dermis and creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. Toxic vaccinations also aggravate this distressing malady. Mercifully, natural remedies provide an intelligent option—curing eczema gently without the side effects of conventional treatments.

Connecting the dots between eczema, immunity and the gut

The first line of attack in overcoming eczema is healing the gut. Since a majority of those suffering from eczema experience leaky gut syndrome, it is important to take care of the digestive tract. When the intestinal wall becomes overly permeable with this syndrome, toxins pass into the blood stream which triggers an inflammatory response. Allergies and food reactions follow—along with eczema. Unfortunately, this whole cycle taxes the immune system.