Cowspiracy: the film that environmental organizations don't want you to see

Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret is a groundbreaking feature-length environmental documentary following intrepid filmmaker Kip Andersen as he uncovers the most destructive industry facing the planet today – and investigates why the world’s leading environmental organizations are too afraid to talk about it.

Animal agriculture is the leading cause of deforestation, water consumption and pollution, is responsible for more greenhouse gases than the transportation industry, and is a primary driver of rainforest destruction, species extinction, habitat loss, topsoil erosion, ocean “dead zones,” and virtually every other environmental ill. Yet it goes on, almost entirely unchallenged.

Is this one daily habit increasing your risk of cancer?

Bearing in mind that skin is the body's largest organ and absorbs substances readily, it's always a good rule of thumb to avoid exposing skin to anything we wouldn't ingest. And yet, a common routine is poisoning us on a daily basis - specifically, chlorinated showers and baths. Used in water treatment facilities to destroy harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi, chlorine is a potent disinfectant. But the darker side of water chlorination is rarely acknowledged, namely, that it causes serious harm to humans in ways which often remain unnoticed until major illness strikes.

Silent poison

A hot, steamy shower or bath is a great way to relax and unwind - or so we thought. In reality, we are exposing ourselves to an array of toxins with significant consequences. We would never suspect that we are bathing in an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classified pesticide. According to the Global Healing Center post "Chlorine, Cancer, and Heart Disease":

Generate endless hot water without electricity or solar power

According to Appropedia: "When air or water is heated, it gains kinetic energy from the heating source and becomes excited. As a result, the water becomes less dense, expands, and thus rises. In contrast, when water or air is cooled, energy is extracted from the molecules and the water becomes less active, more dense, and tends to "sink." Thermosiphoning harnesses the natural density differences between cold and hot fluids, and controls them in a system that produces natural fluid movement. Several systems based on this technology are currently available—[the one highlighted in the following video uses wood as the fuel source]."

Vanquish Sugar Addiction Naturally (and Painlessly) with These Tips

Sugar addiction is a subtle and insidious dependency that creeps up completely unnoticed. Unknowingly consumed in processed food or a seemingly harmless meal out, sugar is everywhere. In fact, the average American ingests 150 pounds of refined sugar a year — the equivalent of five tons throughout a lifetime. Don't be fooled. Simply because sugar is a widespread accepted substance, doesn't mean it is anymore innocuous than morphine or heroin. It is just as addictive, if not more so. But there is hope. With a few dietary and lifestyle changes, sugar dependency can be tamed and healthy well-being restored.

Sprightly Summer Spritzer with Raspberry and Lemon

Here is another lightening quick recipe for the dog days of summer – a refreshing spritzer with just a hint of sweetness and a touch of tanginess. I normally do not recommend cold beverages as they tend to suppress digestion, but I couldn't resist with this one. Just make sure you enjoy the spritzer on its own and straight up. Fresh raspberries and lemons, a dash of stevia, squeeze of juice along with sparking mineral water like San Pellegrino and you will never be tempted by artificial vitamin waters again. Wishing all an outrageously festive, healthy and playful season.

Defeat Insomnia and Sleep Easy With These Top Foods

Poor sleep isn't only a nuisance, it's also dangerous for health. Currently, over 50 million Americans suffer from the condition, with women three times more susceptible than men. When we are sleep deprived, the risk of diabetes, depression and cardiovascular disease increase, immunity falters and our waistlines expand. As anyone who has suffered from insomnia knows, lack of decent shut-eye creates mayhem in personal and professional lives, while also jeopardizing ultimate well-being.

The good news is that we don't have to be at the mercy of erratic sleep patterns. With a few wise food choices in the latter part of the day, we can overcome the unruly beast of insomnia once and for all.

DIY Black Magic: Naturally Whiter Teeth with Activated Charcoal Toothpaste

As strange as it may sound, brushing with a readily available black powder can help polish and whiten your teeth - all without harsh chemicals. To be honest, I was doubtful this homemade toothpaste would really work, but was curious enough to give it a go. The results were surprising. 

After a bit of research, I discovered that activated charcoal is an astonishing magnet for anything from poisons to bacteria to stains on your teeth. Apparently, activated charcoal absorbs and encapsulates harmful substances, then safely escorts it out of the system without risk of absorption. This is why hospitals keep a hearty supply of the stuff on hand for poisoning victims.