Do your research...

I have been reading a wonderful book by Robyn O'Brian called The Unhealthy Truth that is bound to raise questions, and lots of them! While she began her research because of a food allergy in one of her sprouts this book is for anyone questioning what our modern foods are doing to our bodies, especially the bodies of our little sprouts.

She talks about soy formula and soy products and how they can have harmful effects. She references Dr. Sears quite a bit, so be sure to check out what he has to say at http://www.askdrsears.com/. Basically, soy contains isoflavones that mimic estrogen. And while it may not be an issue for full grown adults soy formula is questionable to say the least. A quick overview of Dr. Sear's reservations of soy formula:

- 30 to 50% of milk allergy sprouts have a soy allergy as well

- "protein made by big mammals for little mammals is ideal for babies" (direct quote)

- soy binds and prevents certain minerals and calcium for being properly absorbed

- high levels of aluminium (disturbed that facts basically say that no one really knows the harm level...it's like they are letting children be their little experiment)

- soy formula before intestinal closure gives a child predisposition to soy allergies later on

- higher sodium, which creates a palate that prefers saltiness...not a good health habit to start!

My issue lies with the hidden connections with Monsanto, researchers and the formula producers. It's like we have one huge hidden web of connections that help hide the issues to sell the products...everyone makes money and our children are there experiment. Now, while my sprouts are breastfed I know others who have gone the formula route that deserves this information upfront. Our sprouts are not an experiment...they are the future to a greener, more eco world.

And if your sprouts (or yourself) have food allergies check out http://www.allergykids.com/!

Swiss Chard & Feta Frittata

Okay, I know it's not a foodie Friday but I just had to share this delicious recipe that I made with ALL organic and almost all local ingredients for Easter morning. It's a great recipe to prepare ahead for a fast breakfast as well...and not feed your family an over processed mystery "fruit" bar.

1 bunch swiss chard, stems removed, rough chopped
about 1/2 cup feta cheese (more or less depended on home much you like cheesy eggs)
2 minced fresh garlic cloves
1 large spring onion, diced
8 fresh eggs
a few chopped marinated artichoke hearts (optional)
1 pepidew pepper, diced (optional)
olive oil, salt & fresh ground pepper

Heat 1 Tbsp oil over medium heat in oven safe pan. Add onions and garlic, saute until tender. Add swiss chard and a little salt and saute until reduced to about half. Set aside. In a bowl, whisk eggs and pepper together. Add cooked veggies, feta, artichoke and pepidew. Whipe out oven safe pan and add two Tbsp oil. Once oil is very hot add egg mixture and let cook on medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Have broiler set on high and transfer to oven. Broil 3-4 minutes until center if firm and frittata is golden brown. Remove, cool slightly, transfer to plate and ENJOY! Goes well with sliced tomatoes or fresh, local strawberries!

Mix it up and try tomatoes and olives! The combinations are endless! And remember, make it local and organic whenever possible!

Sunday's Eco Inspiration

Happy Easter Everyone! Today's inspiration is about the story of the first Easter, it's not a verse but rather, a reflection.

Think about how involved nature is in the Holy week and up to Easter morning. Jesus prayed in THE GARDEN, He wore a CROWN OF THORNS, He was NAILED TO A TREE, He was BURIED IN A TOMB OF STONE, the STONE WAS ROLLED AWAY, and He ASCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS. Looking at it this way, how can we not be reminded of the gift God gave us everyday? Every time we look at a tree...think of the cross. Every time you see a stone...remember the empty tomb. Reminders of the Resurrection surround us if we just look at nature through different eyes. And once you do, how could you not protect it?

Enjoy Easter, enjoy nature... and always remember the Sacrifice that Saves.

And the Winner is...

MommaMorton! Congratulations on winning Adventures in Green Living and Parenting's first ever giveaway! Don't forget to Facebook message or email me your address so that I can send out your prize...a super cool handmade upcycled basket filled with coupons, samples and products from some great green companies! Including HappyFamily...one of my toddler's favorites!

Thanks to everyone who entered and by the way...9 box panels were used in the making of this basket.

Foodie Friday

So, some of my good friends have been intrigued about my green smoothie recipe that I love to make for a quick breakfast...this one's for you guys!

1 bunch of green kale
1 banana
1 1/2 cups frozen berries
enough water to cover
a squeeze of yummy local honey

Blend and enjoy!

Thrifty Thursday!

This week's top organic deals!

Publix:
Cascadian Farm Fruit Spread $2.99
     .75/1 printable coupon

Muir Glen Tomato Sauce .89
     $1.00 off Healthy Clippings Coupon (Winter Booklet)

Alexia Artisan Breads BOGO at $3.39
     $1.00 off printable coupon

Maranatha No Stir Organic Peanut Butter $4.99
     $1 off Earthfare coupon (booklet or printable)
     $2 off printable coupon
    (use both and get a jar for only $1.99!)


Kroger: same as last week :-( no new sales

Earthfare:

Pop Chips 2/$4
     $1 off printable coupon
     BOGO printable coupon
     (use both and get 2 for $1!)

Traditional Medicinal 16 count 2/$7
    $1 Sunday paper coupon
    $1 Food Lion Nature's Path Magazine coupon (manufacturers coupon)

Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent $10.99
     $2 off in Earthfare's new savings booklet (or printable)

Plus, take the Boot Challenge and this week (until 5/3) trade in your Splenda for Stevia! And don't forget to sign up for the emails...free eggs this week!

Check last week's Target deals, all of the Annie's products are still on sale PLUS you can get Tom's Toothpaste for $1.99 with the target printable and $2 manufacturers coupon (found mine at 14 Carrot!)

Also, if you're in the Greater Columbia area be sure to check out:
- 14 Carrot Whole Foods produce sale Sunday and Thursday 1p to 5p (30% off!)
- 701 Whaley Farmer's Market every Saturday for SC grown produce (check out Asya's Organic Farm...they have AMAZING greens and asparagus!)
- City Roots for pesticide free "you pick" strawberries while supplies last!




  

Wordless Wednesday