We do not make suggestions as to where people should spend their charitable dollars but we ARE including a link to the PCRM article in order to provide information to you.  During February, when attention is turning towards heart health, we want to remind you that there are many organizations,  (The American Heart Association, The Heart Foundation etc.)  that you can partner with to help make a difference in the lives of others. 

Research where your hard earned dollars would be best put to use.  Not in a position to donate?  Be an example to others in your life by caring for your OWN health.  Never underestimate the power of a good influence.

If we go by evidence, studies where we see an actual measure of outcomes — fewer heart attacks, fewer strokes, lower mortality — you are forced to conclude that the foods that are healthy are vegetables, nuts, fish, probably whole grains and beans, all used in the least-processed form.  (Miles Hassell, medical director for integrative medicine, Providence Health & Services) 

Be suspicious of any food that comes in a convenient package. Be suspicious of any foods advertised on TV. I firmly believe that best way to prevent heart disease is a plant-based diet. Minimize animal fats and focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grain foods, and nothing that is packaged or processed. Remember that there is no shortcut to a healthy lifestyle. Adopt these habits, turn your back on processed foods and never look back, never go back there again. For me it is not a diet, but a lifestyle choice. (Dr. Sandeep Garg, cardiologist with Pacific Heart Associates practicing at Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center)

 While we don’t agree with their take on oils (they mention only two as acceptable and the Total Heatlh Makeover is more inclusive than that) the other information here is well worth viewing.   I suppose you might say that you could “take it to the bank.” 

Along with better tasting foods, more energy, a kinder approach to the environment, and spending less on over the counter meds and doctor visits, a healthy lifestyle saves you money at the check out line.  Immediate gratification.  What can YOU do with the money you save?

http://www.delish.com/recipes/cooking-recipes/taste-of-place/?v=45868766-b516-41ee-9f14-b7461f15f02d&from=en-us_msnhp

You don’t need to jump in with both feet today to begin to experience these benefits.  But you COULD start taking some baby steps towards better health beginning right now. 

Take a few minutes to read these testimonials recently published in VegNews, and also citing one of our favorite organizations, The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)

http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=4122&catId=7

If you’ve had success with a plant based diet in your own life we’d love to hear from YOU !

 There are a lot of good reasons for avoiding the sugar overload and your weight is only one of them.  Check out this article for a reminder on why we count sugar as one of the health robbers.

http://fitbie.msn.com/eat-right/tips/6-scary-side-effects-sugar

Here’s an interesting article discussing the trend…and giving a shout out to Marilu.com !!

http://www.vegancooking.com/random-stuff/are-meatless-mondays-for-you-2/

There’s some great information in there to help you make a decision about what’s right for you.

Be sure to check this one out !

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/your-money-today/article.aspx?cp-documentid=31228944

But there’s good news to add.  Individuals can take control of their own health and manage their diabetes care, often through diet and exercise.  We’re not suggesting that you refuse insulin if your doctor determines that medication is the right course for you.  What we’re saying is that a proper diet and lifestyle, and awareness of your blood glucose levels, can help prevent the onset of diabetes and in those already diagnosed, can make management easier and more effective.

The Physicians Committe for Responsible Medicine recently conducted a study on the effects of a vegan diet on diabetes control.  Read the details of that study here.  http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Diabetes/wireStory?id=2244647   This is information that will help you in your next discussion with your doctor.

Be aware of your risk and know what you can do to take control of your health.

There are more extensive articles but we think you’ll enjoy this one succint piece, if for no other reason that the wonderful line, “He just enjoyed the run.”

http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/10/100-year-old-