A Healthy Life

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-06-28T08:43:00.000-05:00

MILK FROM COWS INJECTED WITH GENETICALLY ENGINEERED HORMONES MAKES TWINS
New research shows that consumers of hormone-tainted dairy products are five times more likely to have fraternal twins than vegans. In a report published in the current issue of the Journal of Reproductive Medicine, researchers linked recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) with this rise in twin birth rates. The study shows how rBGH, a synthetic growth hormone used to increase milk production in dairy cattle, increases ovulation in humans and persists in the body after entering via digested food, particularly milk. Monsanto's controversial hormone has been banned in almost every industrialized country in the world, due to scientific evidence indicating that the milk from injected cows contains more pus, antibiotic residues, and IGF-1, a potent cancer tumor promoter. Consumers can avoid dairy products that contain rBGH by purchasing organic dairy products or by looking for labels on natural products that say rBGH or rBST-free.

Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/2006/article_512.cfm

Tuesday Tip

2006-06-27T14:04:00.000-05:00

Whoops - vacation has really gotten in the way.

**Plant your Halloween pumpkin. Determine the days to harvest for particular cultivar and count backward to find the proper planting date.
**Remove cold-season plants, such as radish, spinach and lettuce, as they bolt or form seed stalks.
**Every week or 10 days, continue planting carrots, beans and sweet corn for successive harvests.
And now for a "commercial"
Apply Preen Vegetable Garden Organic Weed Preventer to control crabgrass, dandelions, clover, plantain and many other common weeds.

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-06-14T14:45:00.000-05:00

Wheat or white? Now you don't have to choose
Flour blends whole-grain nutrition, milder taste
Wednesday, May 24, 2006;
It's not new, but white wheat flour is growing in popularity.

(AP) -- Whole wheat is looking a whole lot less wheaty these days.

Food processors are selling more of a newly popular flour that merges whole-wheat health benefits with the color, taste and texture of white bread.

The secret: white wheat, a grain that can be milled to resemble pancake-friendly all-purpose flour, but is as healthy as traditional whole wheat.

Though white wheat has been available for years, it's recently garnered serious attention thanks to new government dietary guidelines urging Americans to eat at least three servings a day of whole grains.

"The word is out that Americans should eat more whole grains for a healthier diet," says Garth Neuffer, spokesman for ConAgra Foods Inc., which launches a white wheat-based flour this summer. "However, people also have shown they won't sacrifice taste and convenience. The majority of Americans still want a white flour-tasting product."

That's why white whole-wheat flour has shown up in numerous healthier versions of many refined flour icons during the past year, including Wonder Bread and Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers.

Read more:
http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/diet.fitness/05/10/white.wheat.ap/index.html

Tuesday Tip

2006-06-13T08:20:00.000-05:00

Remove faded blooms from peony, iris, delphiniums and other perennials.
Continue planting gladiolus for successive blooms.
Blanch (exclude from light) cauliflower heads when they are 2 inches in diameter. Tie leaves up over the developing heads.

Tuesday Tip - tips

2006-06-06T08:49:00.000-05:00

Prune spring-flowering shrubs within a month after blooms fade. These include lilac, forsythia, weigela, rhododendrons and azaleas.

Plant container-grown stock, including shrubs, trees, perennials and annuals.

Monday recipe - Quick corn patties

2006-06-05T08:39:00.000-05:00

2 ears uncooked corn
1 egg
salt and pepper to taste

Cut corn from ears. Beat egg slightly; add with seasonings to corn. Grease griddle with crushed waxed paper. Drop corn mixture by spoonfuls onto hot griddle. When egg is set and patties are brown on one side, turn and brown other side.

2 servings.

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-05-31T08:41:00.000-05:00

Does estrogen make cancer behave differently?
New study explores gender differences

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Lung cancer acts differently in women from the way it does in men, and major new studies are exploring whether estrogen is a key reason -- and whether harnessing the hormone might help fight the No. 1 cancer killer.

The gender link may sound surprising. After all, ask women what cancer they worry most about, and surveys show breast cancer consistently tops the list while lung cancer is seldom mentioned.

Yet lung cancer is increasingly a women's problem. It will claim more than 162,000 lives this year, 72,000 of them women. That is more women than are killed by breast, ovarian, uterine and cervical cancers combined.

While male deaths from lung cancer have been dropping since 1991, women's death rates are stubbornly holding steady. Much of that difference is attributed to gender variations in smoking, lung cancer's main cause.

But consider: Women tend to get different kinds of lung cancer from men's. While it is unclear whether they are at greater risk of developing the disease, some research suggests they may absorb more cancer-causing chemicals from cigarettes and become sick after smoking less. Among people who never smoked, more women than men are found to have lung cancer.
On the other hand, women tend to survive lung cancer slightly better than their male counterparts. And some of the newest lung cancer drugs, Tarceva and Iressa, seem to work more often in women.

Teasing out the biology behind the gender differences could lead to improved treatment for everyone, says Dr. Kathy Albain, a lung cancer specialist at Loyola University Health System.
She is heading a National Cancer Institute-funded study that is recruiting 720 patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer to examine what hormones, genes or other molecular factors explain why lung cancer behaves differently in men and women, smokers and nonsmokers.

"We're learning what's going on in the lung, and whether or not this is a real thing that can be exploited for cancer treatment," she says.

Estrogen already is a leading suspect.

"We're just at the infancy" of exploring the hormone's role in lung cancer, cautions University of Pittsburgh pharmacologist Jill Siegfried, a pioneer in the field.

Read more: http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/conditions/05/29/women.lung.cancer.ap/index.html

Tuesday Tip

2006-05-30T16:17:00.000-05:00

Easy-to-grow perennial named plant of the year: From www.preen.com

‘Firewitch’ (Dianthus gratianopolitanus) is a workhorse in the garden, from its lovely, fragrant, magenta-pink flowers to its blue-green foliage, which is evergreen. The Perennial Plant Association, a not-for-profit trade group made up of breeders, growers and educators, has named it the 2006 Perennial Plant of the Year.

‘Firewitch’ is in the "pinks" category of dianthus, which is sometimes called Cheddar pinks. Cheddar is the area of England where this dianthus comes from, and pinks refers to the flowers, which look like they’ve been trimmed with pinking shears.

‘Firewitch’ blooms for six to eight weeks in spring and early summer, making it a good companion for late-blooming spring bulbs. After each flush of flowers, cut off dead blooms and the plant will likely rebloom throughout summer. The plant looks goo through winter, too, with its dense mat of blue-green foliage. It is hardy in USDA Zones 3 to 9.

Dianthus does best in full sun and loose, well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant, but drainage is critical. Wet soil may cause the plant to rot. ‘Firewitch’ gets about 8 inches tall with a 12- to 15-inch spread. Be prepared, though, because it may spread even more.

Once established, fertilizer usually isn’t necessary. An application of compost around the plants in fall or spring is about all that’s needed.

‘Firewitch’ is easy to divide if it outgrows its place or you want more plants. Just chop off a clump and transplant to a new spot in spring or summer. Dianthus shines in the front of the bed, in rock gardens and in areas where it’s tough to grow plants. It can take a footstep or two, but not high traffic. Best of all, are the flowers, which are very fragrant and can be cut for indoor bouquets.

BIRD FLU SCARE HITS U.S. - IN A MADE-FOR-TV MOVIE

2006-05-25T08:09:00.000-05:00

Recently, ABC aired a movie entitled "Fatal Contact: Bird Flu in America". The film portrayed a worse-case scenario outbreak where millions of people die within the first few weeks of an avian flu pandemic. The network advertised the film as being based on fact and stated it was "one step ahead of the headlines."

A coalition of public interest organizations, including the Organic Consumers Association have called on ABC to take a step back from sensationalism and present its viewers with factual information on the spread of such diseases. A letter written by the coalition to Anne Sweeney, the President of Disney-ABC, states "The role of large industrial-scale poultry operations – where up to hundreds of thousands of birds can be housed indoors in cramped conditions – is not being examined by most of the media or by government officials charged with preventing the spread of the virus. Such facilities not only provide prime conditions for the mutation and spread of the virus between birds, but also rely heavily on genetically similar birds not likely to be resistant to disease."

I'm always preaching against this way of raising chickens. It isn't the way it should be done and it will backfire.

2006-05-24T09:54:00.000-05:00

HORIZON AND AURORA BANNED IN CO-OPS

One month ago, after a poll of our members, the Organic Consumers Association called on consumers to boycott dairy companies like Horizon and Aurora for their practice of raising "organic" cattle on intensive confinement feedlots. A number of natural food stores and co-ops across the U.S are beginning to respond to concerned consumers and removing suspect dairy products from their stores. The Wedge Co-op in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the second largest co-op in the U.S., no longer carries Horizon products. In Colorado, the Boulder Co-op Market, has also discontinued stocking Horizon products. Amy Wyatt, Assistant General Manager for the Co-op, says, "Based on our concerns regarding Horizon's practices, we didn't feel that continuing to carry this company's products was consistent with our mission and values." Dean Foods, Horizon’s parent company, is also starting to come under fire for abandoning U.S. organic soybean farmers and importing cheap soybeans from China, where organic standards are dubious, and farm labor wages and conditions are abysmal. Dean Foods now controls the nation’s largest organic soymilk brand, Silk, as well as the largest organic tofu brand, White Wave. Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/2006/article_400.cfm

ALERT: FREE THOUSANDS OF AMERICA’S ORGANIC COWS FROM INTENSIVE CONFINEMENT

The USDA is also seeking public comments on revisions it has made to the National Organic Program regarding pasture access for organic dairy cattle. Two of the largest organic dairy companies in the nation, Horizon Organic (a subsidiary of Dean Foods), a supplier to Wal-Mart and many health food stores; and Aurora Organic, a supplier of private brand name organic milk to Costco, Safeway, Giant, Wild Oats and others, are purchasing the majority of their milk from so-called organic feedlot dairies where the cows are kept in intensive confinement, with little or no access to pasture. Together, Horizon and Aurora control nearly 65% of the organic dairy market. Recent scientific studies have shown that humanely raised, grass-fed dairy and beef are qualitatively better for human health and the environment. Take action to close the loopholes in organic standards that currently allow factory farm dairies to call their products "organic." http://www.organicconsumers.org/nosb2.htm

2006-05-23T13:48:00.000-05:00

Just because they are bigger than they used to be, doesn't mean they're as nutritious. According to data collected by the USDA, non-organic vegetables have fewer vitamins and minerals than they did 50 years ago. On an overall scale of all produce tested, protein has declined by six percent, iron has declined 15 percent, vitamin C has dropped 20 percent, and riboflavin has fallen by 38 percent. An analysis of the nutritional drops was published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition and suggests the loss is due to the increased cultivation of crops that were bred for high growth and production and not for nutritional value. Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/politics/FEED060417.cfm

Allow foliage of spring-flowering bulbs to ripen and yellow or brown before cutting back. Leaves make the food reserves stored in the bulbs that bring next year's flowers. Divide or transplant spring-flowering bulbs after they've finished blooming. Mark empty spaces in the landscape to show where to plant spring-flowering bulbs in fall.

Divide spring perennials when they have stopped blooming. Perennials grown in containers may be transplanted anytime.

Thursday Review - coffee both organic and genetically modified

2006-05-18T08:39:00.000-05:00

...Because if you can genetically modify coffee, why wouldn't you?

I like organic coffee. I don't even mind paying more. I found some equal exchange coffee I really liked and I posted about it quite a while ago. I like Seattle's Best and some coffee in strange packaging that my boss brings to work. But then I like coffee and I don't necessarily think organic coffee tastes any different than regular. But here's another pleasant reminder about choosing organic over conventional when the taste isn't the issue:

The Nestlé Corporation, the world's largest food manufacturer, has successfully secured a patent on genetically modified coffee. The company, with over $65 billion in annual sales, claims their biotech coffee has a higher level of solubility in water, thereby increasing flavor and caffeine levels per cup (because who doesn't need more caffeine, eh?). Nestle is also in the process of patenting genetically manipulated yogurt bacteria and genetically modified cocoa.

Nestle promotes genetically engineered foods while claiming "the Fair Trade approach is not a solution." (now, why aren't we surprised they don't like Fair Trade?)
Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/ge/coffee060417.cfm

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-05-17T09:01:00.000-05:00

ALERT: STOP THE USDA’S LATEST SNEAK ATTACK ON ORGANIC STANDARDS The U.S. Department of Agriculture, no doubt hoping to limit public controversy, has announced a very short public comment period (ends May 12, 2006) on proposed new federal regulations that will weaken organic standards. USDA’s proposed amendments, supported by grocery store chains and large food corporations, will allow so-called organic dairy feedlots to continuously import calves from conventional farms—where the calves have been weaned on blood, dosed with antibiotics, and fed genetically engineered grains and slaughterhouse waste. USDA’s new rules will also allow over 500 artificial (synthetic) substances in organic processed foods without prior scrutiny and review by the National Organic Standards Board USDA’s latest efforts are basically an attempt to codify last fall’s controversial "Sneak Attack" in Congress, when industry players and the Organic Trade Association convinced the Republican Party majority to attach a last minute rider to the 2006 Agricultural Appropriations Bill. Take action now and tell the USDA to back off on lowering standards! http://www.organicconsumers.org/sos.cfm

Tuesday Tip - Planting your garden

2006-05-16T08:36:00.000-05:00

Annuals go from seed to flower to seed all in one growing season. Sometimes called bedding plants, annuals are readily available in plastic packs at garden centers and other retailers. Sometimes, though, it’s hard to know what to buy.

Plants that are short and full tend to do better when transplanted than those that are tall and lanky. If tall plants are your only choice, go ahead and buy them, but cut them back to the second set of leaves when planting. Tall, lanky plants may be stressed and have root systems that are overdeveloped for their pots.

Monday recipe - Rhubarb Fool

2006-05-15T09:26:00.000-05:00

Rhubarb Fool
A fruit fool is a simple and delicious dessert, rich and creamy - but not overly so.
6-8 plump sticks of rhubarb
2 cups sugar
small knob of butter
1 cup whipping cream
serves 4
Cut the rhubarb into chunks and sweat with the sugar and butter over a low heat until cooked but not mushy. Mash or pass through a food mill. When cold, fold into stiffly-whipped cream. Allow to set in the fridge and serve with Lady fingers or sponge cake.

Thursday Review

2006-05-11T10:21:00.000-05:00

A new survey in India has found genetically engineered cotton (Bt Cotton) is causing negative health effects among farm workers. The survey, covering six villages, reported, "All the evidence gathered during the investigation shows that Bt has been causing skin, upper respiratory tract and eye allergies among persons exposed to cotton." The people affected did not have previous histories of allergies to cotton. One woman in the report had such a severe reaction to the biotech cotton she had to be removed from the fields and was taken to Barwani District Hospital where she remained for 9 days. Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/ge/illness060426.cfm

Tuesday Tip - HOW GREEN IS YOUR LAWN?

2006-05-09T13:03:00.000-05:00

Consumers are forcing the $35 billion per year lawn & garden care industry to make space for organics. Stores like Lowe's, Sears and Home Depot, which traditionally have only sold synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, are selling record amounts of organic soils and fertilizers this Spring. A recent survey from the National Gardening Association found that, while only 5% of U.S. households now use all-organic methods in their yards, some 21% said they would likely do so in the future. Studies over the past three decades have linked common lawn and garden chemicals with cancer and kidney or liver damage, particularly in children and pets. "Initially, it may feel harder, but in the long term, it's easier," says Scott Meyer, editor of Organic Gardening magazine. He likens using chemicals to "putting your yard on steroids." Over time, he says, "it weakens the system." Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/ofgu/lawn060418.cfm

Monday Recipe - where our food comes from

2006-05-08T08:33:00.000-05:00

What is going on out there? Organic? Are you sure it's organic??

A MOUTHFUL OF MONEY: THE CORPORATE TAKEOVER OF ORGANIC FOODS

Kraft Foods bought small natural cereals producer Back to Nature in 2004. The company is a subsidiary of Altria Group, which also owns Phillip Morris Companies Inc., one of the largest cigarette makers in the world. Kraft also owns Boca Burger Inc.

Odwalla Inc., which produces natural and organic fruit juices, was purchased by Coca-Cola in 2001.

Dean Foods Co., the largest dairy company in the U.S., bought out Horizon Organic in 2003, in addition to Silk soymilk and White Wave tofu.

Kellogg's has acquired several natural and organic brands: Kashi Cereal and Morningstar Farms.

General Mills purchased Cascadian Farm, in 2000. The brand consists of items such as frozen fruit, vegetables, granola bars and fruit spreads. General Mills also bought out Muir Glen, which produces ketchup, tomato sauce, and salsa.

Unilever bought out Ben & Jerry's for $326 million.

Colgate-Palmolive Co. is purchasing Tom's of Maine, which specializes in natural oral and personal care products.

Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/sos.cfm

Thursday Review - Laundry products

2006-05-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

I use Seventh Generation products and Borax. I also use some Method products in the laundry room. I get Seventh Generation from Amazon. Otherwise, I'd need a 2nd mortgage to buy the stuff. And although the company has inked an agreement (months ago) for a relationship with Target, I have yet to see any of their products in my local Target stores. I'm sticking with Amazon for now!

Try some of these brands out. Many of them you can find in your local grocery store.

Alternative Brands - Bleaches and Stain Removers
Bi-O-Kleen Oxygen Bleach Plus (www.bi-o-kleen.com, 503-557-0216)
Naturally Yours Natural Bleach and Softener (www.naturallyyours.com, 888-801-7347)
Seventh Generation Non-Chlorine Bleach (www.seventhgeneration.com)
Ecover Laundry Bleach and Natural Non-Chlorine Bleach (www.ecover.com, 800-449-4925)
Bio Pac Non-Chlorine Bleach Powder (www.bio-pac.com)
Naturally Yours All-Purpose Spotter, (www.naturallyyours.com, 888-801-7347)
Bi-O-Kleen Bac-Out Stain & Odor Eliminator and Spray & Wipe Cleaner (www.bi-o-kleen.com, 503-557-0216)

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-05-03T08:43:00.000-05:00

Aresenic in chicken. Another reason to skip chicken these days.

The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy has released a new study revealing arsenic is present in most non-organic chicken products. Testing of 155 samples from supermarket chicken products found 55 percent carried detectable levels arsenic, a highly toxic carcinogen. All 90 fast food chicken products contained arsenic. The toxin levels are due to the industry practice of adding arsenic to chicken feed with the goal of killing parasites and promoting growth. Arsenic is not allowed in organic chicken feed. Read about it here.

Tuesday Tip

2006-05-02T08:50:00.000-05:00

Quebec has passed the toughest rules in North America regarding common gardening pesticides. In a move that has thrilled environmentalists and health advocates, the provincial government has asked its citizens to go back to the traditional ways of gardening and has banned 210 lawn and chemical products from store shelves.

"This bold action sets a standard for excellence that other governments ignore at their peril," said Warren Bell, an association board member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment. Read more here.

Monday recipe - Romaine and Avocado Salad

2006-05-01T11:47:00.000-05:00

From www.whfoods.com - a great web site!

Romaine and Avocado Salad
Prep and Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:
1 large head romaine lettuce, outside leaves discarded
1 large tomato chopped
1 small red bell pepper cut in thin julienne,
1 inch long1/2 small avocado cut into chunks
*Optional: 2 TBS coarsely chopped walnuts

Dressing
2 TBS lemon juice
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
extra virgin olive oil to taste
Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Directions:
Remove outer leaves of lettuce heads and discard. Cut off tops of leaves and discard. Tops are bitter. Chop remaining inner leaves. Rinse in cold water, and if you have a salad spinner, spin lettuce to dry. If you don’t have one, remove as much water as possible in a colander and then dry with paper towels. This will keep the flavor of the salad from getting diluted.

Whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper in a small bowl and toss with salad greens. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts if desired.Serves 4

Thursday Review

2006-04-28T08:16:00.000-05:00

From Organic Consumers Association regarding "organic" milk

ORGANIC BYTES READERS VOTE TO LAUNCH BOYCOTT AGAINST HORIZON AND AURORA
In the last two issues of Organic Bytes we invited our readers to vote on the direction of OCA's Safeguard Organic Standards Campaign by taking part in an online poll. The poll asked, "Should the Organic Consumers Association call for a boycott of organic brands that are lobbying to weaken organic laws and taking advantage of loopholes in the organic standards (example: producing so-called "organic" dairy products on factory farms, where the animals are imported from conventional dairy farms, and then kept in intensive confinement, with no access to pasture)?"

We'd like to thank everyone who took part in that poll. The results indicate a resounding 96% of participants believe the OCA should launch a boycott. In response, and in alliance with the Cornucopia Institute, the OCA sent out a national press release last week calling on consumers to boycott these brands. Two of the largest organic dairy companies in the nation, Horizon Organic (a subsidiary of Dean Foods) and supplier to Wal-Mart and many health food stores; and Aurora Organic, a supplier of private brand name organic milk to Costco, Safeway, Giant, Wild Oats and others, are purchasing the majority of their milk from feedlot dairies where the cows have little or no access to pasture.

The National Standards Board is currently accepting public comments regarding factory farm dairy. Take action here: http://www.organicconsumers.org/nosb2.htm

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-04-26T09:34:00.000-05:00

EUROPEAN LEADER SAYS BIOTECH CORPORATIONS PROVIDE BIASED RESEARCH
Europe's environment chief has announced that more studies on long term impacts of genetically engineered (GE) crops must be implemented before any new GE crops can be approved. Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas said that too many of the current GE regulatory decisions are based on biased data provided by the biotech industry, which put GE crops in a biased positive light. "Applications for cultivation of GMO products raise a whole new series of possible risks to the environment, notably potential longer-term effects that could impact on biodiversity," he said. Read more here.

Tuesday Tip

2006-04-25T10:36:00.000-05:00

Attend a flower and garden show in your community. There, you will learn about new plants, garden design and solutions to landscape problems.

Celebrate National Arbor Day April 28, 2006 by planting a tree in your landscape, park, public garden, at a school or other location.

Monday recipe

2006-04-24T08:33:00.000-05:00

"Steak" salad

1 package Baby Bella mushrooms, washed, dried and sliced
Lettuce
Onion
Carrot
Red pepper
Ken’s SteakHouse Italian dressing
Parmesan cheese, grated

Toss the mushrooms with about 1 tablespoon of dressing. Scatter the mushroom slices onto a cookie sheet and put in a 450 degree oven. Roast the mushrooms 6-8 minutes. In the meantime, assemble the rest of the salad. Take the mushrooms out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Place them on top of the salad and sprinkle with enough cheese to please you.

Thursday Review

2006-04-20T08:50:00.000-05:00

Brew a Better World with Equal Exchange Organic Coffee

Savor the taste, aroma and quality of a delicious, gourmet cup of coffee that’s helping to change the world for the better. When you purchase Equal Exchange, you receive the highest quality coffee, while guaranteeing a fair price for farmer cooperatives. And, because the coffee is organic, it is healthier for coffee farmers and the environment.

I like Equal Exchange coffee and hot chocolate. The quality is good, no extra chemicals and the farmers get a fair share. What better way to pump yourself full of caffeine in the morning?

They are offering an online limited time offer so you can sample some of their most popular coffees at a discount! Don't miss out on these fantastic combinations - find out more now here: EE Coffee offer!

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-04-19T15:45:00.000-05:00

CHILDHOOD OBESITY CAUSES SHORTAGE IN CAR SEATS
Thanks to increased consumption of fast foods and junk foods, the obesity level among American children has reached epidemic levels. In addition to the countless negative health effects of childhood obesity, a new study says the dietary problems have led to an unexpected shortage of car seats designed for overweight children. Research published in the April issue of Pediatrics indicates a shortage of over 100,000 car seats for obese children. Motor vehicle crashes account for 23 percent of deaths among infants and 30 percent among preschool-aged children, meaning car seats designed for the correct body type are essential. The problem is compounded for impoverished families, considering the average car seat designed for an obese child costs $200-300, which is three to four times more expensive than conventional car seats. http://www.organicconsumers.org/artman/publish/article_223.cfm

Tuesday Tip

2006-04-18T09:55:00.000-05:00

Indoors, start caladiums, tuberous begonias, cannas and other tender, summer bulbs.

Plant strawberries, rhubarb, asparagus, raspberries and shrubs for other small fruits.

Transplant cool-season annuals outdoors, such as pansies, Johnny-jump-ups, snapdragons, osteospermum and nemesia in pots or in the ground for some early color.

These annuals also look great when planted with many spring-blooming bulbs.
Pots of spring bulbs that have been forced into bloom are available at garden centers for planting outdoors in containers or in the ground. These also can be used indoors.

Monday recipe

2006-04-17T17:32:00.000-05:00

1 small orange, peeled and in sections
1 to 1-1/2 cups spinach
2 TBSP dried cranberries
1 green onion, chopped into small pieces
1/4 cup cottage cheese

Mix all ingredients and toss until the cottage cheese coats everything. Sprinkle with cracked pepper.

Thursday product review

2006-04-13T15:38:00.000-05:00

Today is more of a product notice: Preen is a gardening product a friend of mine really likes. They now have an organic product:

Research at Iowa State University has led to the use of corn gluten as a weed preventer. Iowa State has been testing and analyzing corn gluten as a weed inhibitor for 20 years. (For more information about corn gluten as a herbicide, visit www.gluten.iastate.edu).

Preen Vegetable Garden Organic Weed Preventer keeps seeds from germinating. It does not kill weeds that are already growing. Simply sprinkle it on the soil and water in. Because of its potency as a preventer, it is not recommended for use until seeds have germinated, are established and about 3 inches tall. Weeds in the bed at the time of planting should be removed.

Preen Vegetable Garden Organic Weed Preventer can be applied every four to six weeks anytime during the growing season. Corn gluten contains about 10 percent nitrogen, which is added to the soil as the product breaks down. It also has trace amounts of phosphorus and potassium.

At least 26 million households have a vegetable garden, according to the 2003 National Gardening Survey. At least 5 million gardeners follow organic practices in their landscape and about 30 million use organic and synthetic products as fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, according to National Gardening’s 2004 survey.

"It’s really the best of both worlds," Kelso said. "This is an effective product that meets the needs of many gardeners who do not want to use synthetic chemicals in their vegetable garden."

Preen Vegetable Garden Organic Weed Preventer will be available Spring 2006 at independent garden centers in a granular formula. For more information, visit www.preen.com or call (800)233.1067.

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-04-12T16:48:00.000-05:00

National School Lunches: Unsafe at Any Eating, Warns Samuel S. Epstein, M.D.
Get the Facts on April 11th, BioETHICS Chicago Conference
CHICAGO, April 10 /PRNewswire/ --

On April 6, a bipartisan Congressional group, with strong support in both Houses, announced plans to introduce legislation amending the National School Lunch Act. This would prohibit the sale in schools of sugary or fatty junk foods, notably soft drinks and French fries.This initiative officially endorses longstanding efforts by many school districts to provide only healthy foods, and hopefully reduce the growing incidence of childhood obesity and related

diseases.Enforcement of this initiative would be the responsibility of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which is in charge of the current Public School Lunch Program. This extended authority was applauded by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a national food safety activist group, stating that "The Agency has done a good job with the official school lunch and could do a good job with all other foods." This endorsement may well be warranted nutritionally. However, it certainly is not warranted by the USDA's failure to disclose well-documented scientific evidence on the risks to health of the two school lunch staples, milk and meat.Much of the nation's milk supply comes from cows injected with a genetically engineered variant of their natural growth hormone, technically known as rBGH (recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone).

Manufactured by Monsanto, and sold to dairy farmers under the trade name POSILAC. Injection of the hormone forces cows to increase their milk yield by about 10 percent, while making them sick in the process.Monsanto and the USDA insist that rBGH milk is indistinguishable from natural milk, and that it is safe for children and other consumers. This is scientifically and medically untrue. rBGH milk makes cows sick. Monsanto has been forced to admit to some 20 toxic veterinary effects on its POSILAC label.

These include mastitis, resulting in pus cells in milk, and antibiotics used to treat the mastitis. rBGH milk is also chemically, and nutritionally different than natural milk, and is supercharged with excess levels of a natural growth factor (IGF-1), which is readily absorbed through the intestines into the blood. Of major concern is a wealth of longstanding scientific evidence incriminating these excess levels as delayed causes of breast, colon, and prostate cancers.

Reacting to the fully documented scientific evidence on the dangers of rBGH milk, a wide range of nations including all of Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan have banned rBGH milk.

Read more http://www.organicconsumers.org/school/41006.cfm

Tuesday Tip

2006-04-11T08:50:00.000-05:00

Plant or divide perennials, such as hosta, daylilies, chrysanthemums, daisies, yarrow and other summer and fall bloomers. Spring-blooming perennials are best divided in late summer or early fall.

Don’t remove the foliage of spring flowering bulbs until it turns yellow, brown or falls flat (called ripening). The foliage is needed to manufacture the food the bulb stores for next year’s blooms.

Monday Recipe - fresh & safe vegetables

2006-04-10T15:26:00.000-05:00

Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs) are popular and can fill up quickly. A farm sells shares and for the cost, you get delivery of fresh vegetables throughout the growing season. For information on joining a CSA group near you, go to nal.usda.gov/afsic/csa, sare.org/csa or justfood.org.

Or you can buy your vegetables at a farmers' market. To find one in your neighborhood, go to ams.usda.gov/farmersmarkets/map.htm.

I was looking for a fresh tomato in the grocery store last week when I stopped myself. What's the point this time of year? They are usually not that good unless you get grape tomatoes, which I didn't want. I reminded myself that it is not that hard to eat seasonally. We just aren't used to it so much anymore! I'm really looking forward

Making up for Weds & Thurs

2006-04-07T11:03:00.000-05:00

Sorry, the week got away from me!

CONSUMER DEMAND FOR ORGANICS EXPLODE WHILST SUPPLY DWINDLES

Not enough U.S. farmers are finding it possible to make the transition to organic production, according to a January 2006 marketing report from the research firm Organic Monitor in London. Domestic consumers are buying record amounts of organic foods, but farmers are unable to meet that demand, resulting in $1.5 billion of organic crops imported into the U.S. in 2005. This means that 10% of all organic sales in the U.S. today are imports. In comparison, U.S. organic exports amount to a meager $150 million. In the European Union, government programs help conventional farmers make the transition to organic production with subsidies and technical assistance. In contrast, the majority of U.S. agricultural subsidies are earmarked for large chemical-intensive and energy-intensive farms and genetically engineered crops, making it difficult for family-scale farmers and ranchers to afford the expensive and difficult three year transition from conventional to organic production.

"Unless more American farmers consider converting to organic practices, exporters are likely to capitalize on this lucrative market," the report said. http://www.organicconsumers.org/organic/shortage060326.cfm

Tuesday Tip - early spring lawn care

2006-04-04T09:26:00.000-05:00

Finish cleaning up the garden and pruning duties. Finish sowing seeds indoors for warm-season annuals and vegetables. Follow instruction on seed packets.

Monday recipe

2006-04-03T07:22:00.000-05:00

I just threw this together, so it comes from memory.

2 carrots, cleaned and sliced into small sticks
1/2 cup water
1 cup of fresh spinach leaves
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1/2 cup rice

Put the cleaned and sliced carrots in a skillet with the water. Bring to a slow boil and let the carrots soften. You may have to add a little more water to keep the pan from boiling dry. When the water is gone and the carrots of soft, lower the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allow to melt. Throw in the fresh spinach leaves and cook them until they are wilted. Push the carrots and spinach to the side of the skillet and add the remaining butter and the peanut butter. Stir until blended and saucy. Add the rice to the skillet and stir everything to mix and blend the sauce throughout. That's it - it's very good.

Wednesday What's in the News - bad news

2006-03-29T15:07:00.000-06:00

This is very bad news, in my opinion. Animal testing is the first thing that comes to mind...

Tom's of Maine, the popular maker of a variety of natural and organic body care products, has agreed to be bought out by the Colgate-Palmolive Company for $100 million. Although in past years Tom's of Maine has made negative comments about Colgate's use of artificial ingredients in its toothpastes, co-founder Tom Chappell claims "We have a commitment from Colgate that our formulas will not be tampered with." Colgate says it can help Tom's of Maine increase sales and distribution in the current fast-growing $3 billion US market for natural oral-care and personal products. http://www.organicconsumers.org/bodycare/toms060326.cfm

Tuesday Tip

2006-03-28T13:28:00.000-06:00

Seeds for warm-season flowers and vegetables can be started indoors. Check the seed packet for precise instructions. Don’t transplant warm-season plants outdoors until all threat of frost has passed.

Clean up any garden beds left to winter over. Remove dead plant debris and clear leaves and other matter from the beds.

Don’t dig soil that is too wet or still frozen. Working with wet or frozen soil damages its structure. If the soil structure is damaged, it takes years for it to be rebuilt. Soil with poor structure is easily compacted, will not drain well and may be hard to dig.

To test readiness, pick up a handful of soil and form a ball. If the soil forms a solid ball, it is still too wet. If the ball crumbles away, it’s ready for planting.

Monday recipe - Pot of Tea

2006-03-27T08:41:00.000-06:00

It is easy to make a poor cup of tea. Float a tea bag in some milk, pour in some nearly-boiling water, mash the tea bag against the side of the cup with a spoon, fish out the tea bag and throw it away.

There you are. Awful! Tea should be made with freshly-drawn, freshly-boiled water in a warmed pot and allowed to brew. The result will be a pleasant, refreshing drink.
To make a good pot of tea, bring freshly-drawn water to a brisk boil.

Pour a little into a 2 pt/ 1 ltr/ 4 cup earthenware teapot to warm it, then empty the water out.

Using good quality tea, put 3-5 teaspoons, according to taste, into the warmed pot.
Bring the water back to the boil and pour on immediately.

Cover the pot with a tea-cosy and allow to brew for 5 minutes - any shorter and the flavour will not have developed, any longer and the tannin will start to come out, making the tea taste stewed. For the same reason, boiling water should be used to make the tea but the brew should not subsequently be boiled.

From: www.irelandseye.com Check out their site for interesting things about Ireland.

Wednesday What's in the News? US eating fewer risky foods

2006-03-22T11:24:00.000-06:00

Review

ATLANTA, March 21 - If we are what we eat, then we're safer than we once were, reported investigators today at the International Conference on Emerging Infectious Diseases here.

Americans, they said, are eating smaller quantities of risky foods such as undercooked beef, raw fish, runny eggs, and alfalfa sprouts.

"Overall we are seeing a decline in risky food consumption and that may be attributable to published media reports of food-borne outbreaks and outreach efforts by the public health community," said Erica Weis, M.P.H., of the California Department of Health Services.

From 1998 to 2002, the number of Americans who reported eating one or more comestibles associated with an increased risk of food-borne illnesses dropped by about a third, said Weis and colleagues on the basis of a survey on dicey American eating habits.

Men were more likely than women to take dietary risks, and people of Asian backgrounds were more likely than Caucasians to take eat chancy foods, the investigators reported.

They also found that among teenagers younger than 18, those who were immunocompromised were more likely to eat one of the foods classified as risky, based on information from the medical literature and reports of recent food-borne outbreaks.

The questionable foods were:

Pink (e.g., rare or raw) hamburgers/
Pink ground beef.
Raw fresh fish (a.k.a. sashimi).
Raw oysters.
Raw/unpasteurized milk.
Runny eggs.
Alfalfa sprouts.

Read more at this web site.

Tuesday Tip - seedlings

2006-03-21T08:39:00.000-06:00

Seedlings started indoors or transplants from the garden center need to be acclimated to outdoor temperatures before being planted outside. Plants set out too quickly are susceptible to damage from cold, nighttime temperatures. Set your plants outdoors during the day. In the evening, bring the plants into an unheated garage, enclosed porch or back into the house. Do this for about one week prior to planting them in the garden.

Monday Recipe - salad

2006-03-20T16:33:00.000-06:00

1 bag cole slaw mix or a shredded head of cabbage
2 small pkg almonds, slivered or sliced
1 pkg ramen noodles, smashed, throw away the seasoning package
olive oil
balsamic vinegar
maple syrup

Bake together on a cookie sheet at 200 for 15-25 min. Should get a warm brown color. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

Combine equal parts of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and pure maple syrup (Use 3 fluid oz each for one bag of cole slaw). Pour mixture over cole slaw. Just before serving, toss in the toasted nuts and noodles.

Thursday Review Health Valley Fat Free Soup - Corn & Vegetable

2006-03-16T09:49:00.000-06:00

Made with organic corn, carrots and tomatoes and with 50% less sodium than other leading brands, this can of soup is ready to eat. It doesn't require water, so it is great for your desk drawer. The soup label tells me that it contains 390 mg sodium per serving compared to other brands that have 780 mg or more per serving. Sodium is one reason I don't buy soup a lot. Not all the ingredients in this soup are organic, so it isn't carrying the USDA label, but apparently the organic stuff is organic as it has been certified by Quality Assurance International as organic. There are no genetically engineered ingredients in the can.

What happens when you make a fat-free vegetable soup? You have a bunch of vegetables sitting in a tomato-based broth. And they are canned vegetables to boot. It reminds me of the soup I used to make when I had less of the ready for groceries. It isn't bad soup, but it won't make you jump for joy, either. With 6g fiber per serving and 5g protein, I thought it was a good deal all around: value, price, safety. Taste - no different from what you can make at home. That isn't necessarily a bad thing.

Wednesday What's in the News - Benzene in Soft Drinks

2006-03-15T08:35:00.000-06:00

CANCER CAUSING CHEMICAL FOUND IN SOME SOFT DRINKS

The U.S., U.K. and China have launched investigations into benzene in soft drinks. Results of independent laboratory tests in New York, show a couple of soft drinks in the U.S. contain as much as four times above the legal benzene limit for drinking water. Benzene, a known carcinogen, is formed when two ingredients in the beverage react with each other: sodium benzoate (a preservative) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). The FDA will not released the names of the beverages with high benzene levels but says the companies are being asked to change their ingredients. Click here to read more.

Tuesday Tip

2006-03-14T09:07:00.000-06:00

Spring is the best time to plant bare-rooted trees and shrubs. Many mail-order catalogs ship bare-rooted plants. For shipping, these plants are wrapped in wood shavings, paper or other material, but not planted in pots. Bare-rooted plants should be planted as soon as possible. Follow the planting instructions that are sent with the plants.

When the soil temperature reaches 40 degrees F, fertilize trees and shrubs before new growth begins.

As soon as you see new growth on roses, remove their winter protection. Prune and fertilize as needed.

Monday Recipe - Kitchen tips

2006-03-13T08:38:00.000-06:00

To grill vegetables, use the following tips:

Onions should be cut into 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch thick rounds, parallel to the equator. Skewer the slices with a toothpick or small skewer to keep the rings together.

Thin vegetables such as asparagus and scallions and vegetables like tomatoes and tomatillos are best left intact.

High water content greens like bok choy and romaine lettuce grill very well. Just trim off a bit of the bottom, but leave the core intact. Soak them in cold water to remove any sand or dirt.

Bell peppers should be cut into two flat rectangles then grilled skin side down.

With all vegetables on a grill, it helps to add oil since they don't have fat of their own. Place them in a deep bowl, add vegetables, oil and seasonings and toss to coat.

Thursday Review - Del Monte organic tomato sauce

2006-03-09T09:45:00.000-06:00

I bought a couple cans of Del Monte’s organic tomato sauce as I need some for a recipe. I do not normally use tomato sauce, but I figured it might be handy to have in the pantry. I used the first can in the recipe and it performed perfectly. It wasn’t tinny tasting or really salty, either. As I have often said before: it’s organic – that’s the point. It is more important what is NOT in the can – pesticides and the like. Ingredients: organic tomato puree, sea salt, organic sugar, organic red pepper, naturally derived citric acid. What I find interesting is that when I visited their web sites (corporate and consumer) I was struck by the lack of hype – the lack of anything – regarding organic offerings. There isn’t anything about why or how or a separate section for what products are organic in case you’re looking for more. It would be helpful to have the information and yet it is kind of nice to see a company not banging the publicity drum. I guess it depends on how you look at it. Anyway, I recommend the product and found it to be less expensive than the organic brands such as Muir Glen.

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-03-08T09:17:00.000-06:00

Even if you do not have a co-op nearby, these are some good pointers for grocery shopping. One thing I like to do is buy blueberries in season and then freeze them for smoothies all year long. Just this morning I made a smoothie with last summer's strawberries from my garden. This list came from a co-op newsletter in New Mexico by way of the Organic Consumers Association.

The Co-op is not just for yuppies, its for families. Price is a falsedeterrent in this respect. Although organically grown produce may seem more expensive, its value is much greater. As a working mother, I find on almost all items the Co-op value far outstrips the supermarkets.

If you want to improve the quality of your life, improve the quality of your food. If you are feeding a family on a limited income, you certainly want the best value for your dollar. Price need not be a false deterrent. Here are some of the ways I've found to stretch my food dollars and still purchase mostly organic and exclusively from the Co-op.

1. Plan Ahead Always come prepared with a shopping list- this helps avoid impulse buys. Supermarket shopping can be an exercise in frustration. I have to weed through dozens of items and read many labels to find what I need. The opposite is true of the Co-op new things, but use your list and fill it first.

2. Use a calculator to roughly keep track of how much you are spending as your basket fills up. Make a budget and have a general spending limit for each trip. Get the items on the list first and then you'll know whether you can splurge on some special treat.

3. Avoid processed products. This is big. Everyone knows that items like chips, cookies, candy, and sodas have little nutritional value and per pound are relatively expensive to buy. These things should generally come under the splurge category. But also consider avoiding even things like frozen vegetables, bread and juice. All processing adds cost. Invest in a bread machine or make quick breads and bar cookies. Juice as a beverage, while better than soda, has a high sugar content and does not provide the fiber and other nutritive values that eating fresh fruit does. Drink less juice or squeeze your own.

4. Packaging adds both cost and waste. Make the bulk products aisle your first and most important stop. Not only can you find many of your favorite packaged foods you can expand those items that you don't normally purchase in bulk. The savings you create can be used to try something new as long as you have stayed within your budget. One of my favorite items is a liquid all purpose soap that can be used for dishes, laundry, hand soap and shampoo! It works better than any other product I've ever tried for all of these uses.

5. Use the economies of scale concept "army" on the weekend and you'll save time as well as money. Freeze some if there is more than you can use for the week, then with little additions, a grain, pasta, or new veggie each day, allow it to become one of those delicious progressive soup pots that only gets better with age. This works especially well with items that are in season or when there are specific sales.

6. Be guided by value not price. Nuts may seem expensive because they have a relatively high price pre- pound, but they are a great value because they are so nutritious. You won't need very many for a satisfying snack especially compared to chips or pretzels Another example is dates. While they may seem to be expensive they are a great healthful subsititue for cookies at lunch. Sweet and rich, you'll be satisfied with one or two. And compare the food value and cost to candy or packaged cookies. You'll be saving money as well as getting good nutrition; dates are one of the few sweets that do not spike blood sugar and can often be eaten by people who have to watch their intake of sweets (please check with your health care provider if you are on a special diet).

7. Economize in other areas. Even with careful shopping groceries may still take a large portion of your budget. Consider cutting spending on frivolities. Ask yourself do I really need it? How much use will I get outof it? Where and how was it made? What am I supporting with this purchase?

Tuesday Tip - getting ready for the garden, part 2

2006-03-07T09:34:00.000-06:00

Perform a germination test on last year's stored seed. Place ten seeds between papers, and keep the towels moist and warm for a few days. If less than eight of the ten seeds sprout, consider starting with fresh seed.

Monday recipe - Irish Colcannon

2006-03-06T17:07:00.000-06:00

2 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 slices bacon
1/2 small head cabbage, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1/2 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup butter, melted

Place potatoes in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until tender.

Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, reserving drippings, crumble and set aside. In the reserved drippings, saute the cabbage and onion until soft and translucent. Putting a lid on the pan helps the vegetables cook faster.

Drain cooked potatoes, then mash with milk and season with salt and pepper. Fold in the bacon, cabbage and onions, then transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl. Make a well in the center, and pour in the melted butter. Stir to mix and serve right away.

Product review – Country Choice instant oatmeal

2006-03-02T16:12:00.000-06:00

Country Choice Certified Organic Instant Oatmeal in Apples ‘n Cinnamon are just what you would expect in some ways: a box of instant oatmeal in little brown packets to which you add ½ cup boiling water. The surprise is that it is not at all as sweet as the other brands you will find in the supermarket. That’s good because if you don’t want the sugar, it isn’t in there to the same extent. This also allows you the choice of adding a smaller amount of sugar. Another bonus is that even if you add refined white sugar to the oatmeal, you know you aren’t getting high fructose corn syrup.

The ingredients list is short: Organic rolled oats, organic evaporated can juice, organic dehydrated apples, organic maple syrup, sea salt, natural flavors, organic cinnamon. The product box states “certified organic” and the certified part is done by Oregon Tilth. There are 140 calories in each packet, 1.5g of fat, no saturated fat, 85 mg sodium and 3g fiber. Four grams of protein makes this a good breakfast or office snack.

The taste is really good, in my opinion. I grew up on Quaker Apples and Cinnamon instant oatmeal, which is a favorite of mine. I like the Country Choice because I can control the sugar a little. I made and ate the first packet straight, though. I was a little surprised that the missing sugar was so noticeable. I guess I didn’t realize how much sugar/sweetener was used in the Quaker stuff.

Wednesday What's in the News?

2006-03-01T13:12:00.000-06:00

Obesity alarms traditionally slim Japan

TOKYO, Japan (AP) -- For those who think Japan is all fish and tofu, consider 10-year-old Sayaka Oyama's former diet: spaghetti and meat sauce for lunch, chocolates and cookies for a snack, rice balls for dinner and sandwiches at nighttime classes. Late at night, she would slurp down some quick noodles before going to bed.

The diet had a predictable outcome -- one that doctors are seeing more in Japan as the country leaves behind traditional food habits. At 9 years old, Sayaka stood 4 feet 2 inches and weighed 108 pounds, about 50 pounds over her ideal weight.

"I just love eating noodles. I get home tired from cram school, so I used to eat it all the time at night," explained the girl, who, like many Japanese children, takes evening classes to prepare for junior high entrance exams.

Sayaka is now trying to slim down in a sports program for overweight kids. She reflects a rise in obesity in Japan that is being blamed for diabetes and other health problems. Some fear the trend could one day jeopardize Japan's status as the home of the world's longest-living population.

Read more: Click here.

Tuesday Tip - Back from vacation/travel

2006-02-28T16:13:00.000-06:00

QUOTE OF THE WEEKConsumer Reports (Feb. 2006): "A growing body of research shows that pesticides and other contaminants are more prevalent in the foods we eat, in our bodies, and in the environment than we thought. And studies show that by eating organic foods, you can reduce your exposure to the potential health risks associated with those chemicals."

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-02-08T16:55:00.000-06:00

Low-fat study leaves little to chew on
Study of older women shows little effect on disease rates
Wednesday, February 8, 2006; Posted: 1:38 p.m. EST (18:38 GMT)

CHICAGO, Illinois (AP) -- Judy LaCour has spent more than 10 years cutting out fat in her diet in a mammoth government study that no one involved wants to call a bust.

And yet, after spending $415 million trying to get nearly 20,000 mostly overweight postmenopausal women to radically change their eating habits in hopes of reducing cancer and heart disease, researchers are acknowledging less than spectacular results.

After an average of roughly eight years, there was little difference in rates of breast cancer, colorectal cancer and heart disease in women who reduced their fat consumption than among nearly 30,000 study participants who didn't. (Watch what might have affected study results -- 1:36)

"I was surprised," LaCour, 66, a Seattle-area participant, said. "I thought there would be more definitive answers about the value of the low-fat diet."

The researchers did, too. Even so, scientists say the results don't mean dieters should just throw up their hands and eat cake.

Researchers suggested that the participants -- with an average age of 62 -- may have started their healthy eating too late. They also didn't reduce fats as much as the diet demanded. And while some initially lost a few pounds, the diet was not designed for weight loss and most remained overweight, a major risk factor for cancer and heart problems.

The results appear in Wednesday's Journal of the American Medical Association.

Heart and cancer specialists said the overall results were not surprising since scientific thinking on the role different fats play in disease prevention has evolved since this study was designed.

To read the rest of the story, click here.

Tuesday Tip - Getting ready for your garden

2006-02-07T13:29:00.000-06:00

Test leftover garden seed for germination. Place 10 seeds between moist paper toweling, or cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep seeds warm and moist. If fewer than six seeds germinate, buy fresh seed.

Wash pots and trays that will be used for seed sowing and transplants.

Start seeds for cool-season vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and cabbage, five to seven weeks before transplanting outdoors. Read and follow seed packet instructions.

Monday recipe

2006-02-06T20:28:00.000-06:00

From World's Healthiest Foods

Oranges are one of the World's Healthiest Foods

This week we celebrate oranges as powerhouses of vitamin C, one of the body.s most important sources of antioxidant protection. Antioxidants combat free radicals, which have been associated with damage to cell structures, including DNA, and also have been linked to the increased risk of numerous diseases. Free radicals are not only increased through smoking, pollution and the over consumption of alcohol, but are also natural by-products of cellular metabolism, so it is a good idea to include as many antioxidant-rich foods in your Healthier Way of Eating as possible. Easy to carry in its protective skin, a juicy orange is the perfect morning starter, afternoon snack or after dinner dessert. One medium orange contains only 61 calories and provides 116% of the daily value for vitamin C!

Visit this great web site at http://www.whfoods.com/

Thursday Review - Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss

2006-02-02T08:42:00.000-06:00

Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss

50 yards of dental floss. It has tea tree oil. Do my teeth know this? I don't think they do. I wondered why I bought this container of dental floss one day at the health foods store over in Iowa City. Then a couple nights ago I flipped the package over and read the back of the package. I remembered why I bought it.

Desert Essence Dental Floss is naturally waxed and saturated with…inherently antiseptic Tea Tree Oil.
No animal ingredients or testing
No alcohol, artificial detergents, color or synthetic perfumes.

And at the web site www.desertessence.com you read this:

"Quality non-shredding Dental Floss with 100% pure Australian Tea Tree Oil for traditional dental cleaning with floss. The Dental Tape is thicker than floss for wider spaces between teeth. Both Dental Floss and Dental Tape includes inherently antiseptic Tea Tree Oil for added protection and an excellent aid preventive dental care regimen."

Frankly, my teeth shred all dental floss and this non-shredding dental floss shreds between my teeth. But I like it. It works and I don't have to worry about some stupid company testing who-knows-what on some helpless animal. Nor do I concern myself over dye or detergents in between my teeth. Dental floss is supposed to get the gross stuff out of my teeth, not leave bad things behind.

Wednesday What's in the News - Red Dye

2006-02-01T10:02:00.000-06:00

Red Dye May Soon Be Listed on Some Labels
Jan 27, 1:38 PM (ET)By ANDREW BRIDGES

WASHINGTON (AP) - Food and cosmetic labels may soon be required to list the presence of widely used red colorings made from insects, but will not have to disclose the dyes' origins, according to a proposed rule made public Friday.

The Food and Drug Administration has proposed requiring that manufacturers flag the presence of cochineal extract and carmine in their products. The red colorings are extracted from the ground bodies of an insect exploited since the time of the Aztecs.

The proposed rule comes in response to reports of severe allergic reactions to the colorings, the regulatory agency said. A 1998 petition by the Center for Science in the Public Interest asked that the FDA take action.

Carmine is used in ice cream, strawberry milk, fake crab and lobster, fruit cocktail cherries, port wine cheese, lumpfish eggs and liqueurs like Campari, according to the FDA. Carmine's also used in lipstick, makeup base, eye shadow, eyeliners, nail polishes and baby products, the agency said.

Cochineal extract is used in fruit drinks, candy, yogurt and some processed foods.

Cochineal extract has long been made from the dried and ground female bodies of an insect called Dactylopius coccus costa. Indians living in pre-Columbian Mexico were the first to recognize the cactus-sucking insect could be used as a source of dye.

In the present day, when cochineal extract or carmine are included as ingredients, their presence can be noted simply as "color added." They're also sometimes listed as E120 on labels, according to the FDA.

As of February 2004, the FDA said it knew of 35 cases of hypersensitivity to carmine, cochineal extract or carminic acid. Carminic acid is what gives cochineal extract its dark purplish-red color. The acid is used to make carmine.

The FDA said it ruled out banning use of the colorings since it found no evidence of a "significant hazard" to the general population. It also declined to require that labels disclose the colorings are made from insects, as the Center for Science in the Public Interest had asked. The group did not immediately return a message left seeking comment.

The agency said comments on the proposed rule are due April 27.

The FDA plans to tackle the labeling of prescription drugs that include the colorings in a separate rule.
---
On the Net:
Food and Drug Administration: http://www.fda.gov
Center for Science in the Public Interest: http://www.cspinet.org/

Tuesday Tip - Best weather

2006-01-31T13:41:00.000-06:00

The best weather for:

Planting: Plant just before a light rain. For small trees that need protection from heat and wind, plant on a cloudy, calm day or late in the afternoon.

Transplanting: Transplanting is ideal after a light rain and during calm conditions--it's easy to dig and the roots will be hydrated. Don't transplant when the soil is frozen.

Fertilizing: Fertilize just before a light rain. Avoid fertilizing before heavy storms or during extremely dry or windy conditions.

Applying sprays: Apply on a calm day. Avoid spraying before heavy rains. Do not apply dormant spray unless the temperature is above freezing.

Pruning: Winter pruning should be done when temperatures are at least 20 degrees F.

Monday recipe Roasted Sweet Potato

2006-01-30T14:13:00.000-06:00

One organic sweet potato, peeled
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut the sweet potato into slices. For uniformity, consider using a slicer of some kind. Cover a baking sheet with foil and spray liberally with cooking spray. Spread the sweet potato slices evenly over the pan and then spray slices lightly with cooking spray. Place pan in oven for about 20 minutes or until some of the edges begin to brown. Serve plain or with butter and maple syrup. Serves 2-4

Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Dusting Powder

2006-01-27T04:12:00.000-06:00

I got this for Christmas and I love it. It comes in a container that is just the right size to hold onto. So if you are using it on a baby, it fits into your hand snugly. It has an opening with holes over it so you sort of “squirt” the powder out. I went to the dollar store and for a buck, I got a container and a powder puff. I threw away the talc inside and filled it with the BB Dusting Powder. I like powder puffs, but I am torn on whether this was a good decision. If you are using it on a baby, don’t do this!

The BB powder is different from talcum powder. Although it can be just as messy, it really doesn’t seem to hang in the air like a cloud. I like that. And I like knowing it isn’t dangerous. I like the mild fragrance to it and I like the way it feels. It has powdered rosebuds in it, among a couple other things.

Here is what the web site says: WHY IT WORKS: 100% talc free - it’s mostly powdered herbs and flowers. Our dusting powder makes a baby smell like a baby should. Cornstarch, buttermilk and slippery elm bark absorb wetness and relieve chafing and prickly heat. For baby’s bottom, nothing tops it. HOW IT WORKS: Smooth the powder liberally onto baby's skin, especially on the diaper area. Re-apply as often as needed to absorb dampness.

And the ingredients: Cornstarch, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), kaolin (French pink clay), bentonite (natural clay), powdered rosebuds, powdered myrrh, powdered slippery elm bark, fragrance.

Wednesday What's in the News - Older news, good reminder

2006-01-25T09:34:00.000-06:00

This is not a current article, but I am including it because so many people are focused on dieting this time of the year.

Artificial Sweeteners May Damage Diet Efforts
Sugar Substitutes May Distort the Body's Natural Calorie Counter

By Jennifer WarnerWebMD Medical News
Reviewed By Brunilda Nazario, MDon Wednesday, June 30, 2004

June 30, 2004 -- Sugar substitutes may offer sweet treats for calorie-conscious dieters, but a new study shows that they may also play tricks on the body and sabotage weight-loss efforts.
Researchers say artificial sweeteners may interfere with the body's natural ability to count calories based on a food's sweetness and make people prone to overindulging in other sweet foods and beverages.

For example, drinking a diet soft drink rather than a sugary one at lunch may reduce the calorie count of the meal, but it may trick the body into thinking that other sweet items don't have as many calories either.

Click here to read more.

Tuesday Tip - moving your houseplants

2006-01-24T11:07:00.000-06:00

If you're moving from state to state or from one country to another, sometimes your plants aren't allowed to move with you. Before you take plants with you, find out what species are allowed into your new state or country before you attempt to smuggle them in unknowingly. It would be terrible to leave your beautiful darlings with the border guard who may, or may not, possess a green thumb.

Most movers will not cover damage to plants. Plants are too fragile and are very likely to suffer from the move. Some moving companies will not even allow plants on their trucks. Ask before you move if the company has any rules on plants.

One option is to move the plants yourself. Get some sturdy boxes, line them with plastic and place your plant inside. Stuff bubble wrap or foam cushioning between the pot and the box to make sure your plant doesn't shift or tip during the move. Put them in the back seat of your car, with taller plants positioned on the floor. This will give you some comfort knowing you can keep an eye on them. Just make sure if you have to spend a night in a motel, that you check the weather. Cold temperatures can damage fragile plants, so to be safe, move them indoors with you.

Monday Recipe - caring for cabbage

2006-01-23T08:06:00.000-06:00

How to Store Cabbage to Preserve Quality
Storing cabbage correctly is important to preserving its quality. Proper storage methods will help to slow down the respiration, or “breathing” of the cabbage. This is important because the faster the cabbage “breathes”, the quicker the cells metabolize and the cells' metabolic processes begin to break down, and the sooner the vegetable begins to spoil. Therefore, to preserve its flavor, color, texture and nutrients, we need to slow the metabolic rate.

To read how to store cabbage properly, please click here.

Product Review - Real Purity lipstick

2006-01-19T12:41:00.000-06:00

I have only tried samples of their lipstick, I haven't tried it in the actual application tube. I've used the sample by applying it with a lipstick brush. Their lipstick colors are hard to identify accurately due to printing processes changing the colors on paper. I like the grape sherbet color the best and it doesn't look good at all on paper!

I like the staying power of this product and the fact that the ingredient list is pretty tame. Here are the ingredients: Candelila Wax, Beeswax, Aloe Vera Extract, Sweet Almond Oil, Iron Oxides, Titanium Oxide, Kaolin, Pycnogenol.

Now when I say staying power, I'm not comparing it to Color Last kind of competitors. I am comparing it to the lipstick I've used from Burt's Bees.

The titanium oxide listed in the ingredients is rated as being safe, but there is limited evidence that it is a carcinogen and may have adverse affects on the human reproductive system. As always, it is important that you research your products and make your own decisions. Each of us has a different reason for trying to protect ourselves. And importantly, remember that just because a label uses words like safe, natural or pure doesn't mean the product isn't harmful.

Wednesday What's in the News?

2006-01-19T12:40:00.000-06:00

Junk-food suit targets Nickelodeon, Kellogg

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Advocacy groups and parents are suing the Nickelodeon TV network and cereal maker Kellogg Co. in an effort to stop junk food marketing to kids.

The plaintiffs are citing a recent report documenting the influence of marketing on what children eat. Ads aimed at kids are mostly for high-calorie, low-nutrition food and drinks, according to the government-chartered Institute of Medicine.

Wakefield, Massachusetts, mother Sherri Carlson said she tries her best to get her three kids to eat healthy foods.

"But then they turn on Nickelodeon and see all those enticing junk-food ads," Carlson said. "Adding insult to injury, we enter the grocery store and see our beloved Nick characters plastered on all those junky snacks and cereals."

Carlson and another plaintiff, Andrew Leong of Brookline, Massachusetts, spoke at a news conference organized by the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Boston-based Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood.

They intend to sue Kellogg and Nickelodeon parent Viacom Inc. in state court in Massachusetts and served the required 30 days' notice on Wednesday.

To read more, click here.

Tuesday Tip

2006-01-17T10:38:00.000-06:00

Today's tip is a no-brainer. Sorry, but sometimes we all need reminders!

Keep houseplants close to bright windows. Check soil for dryness before watering.

Monday Recipe - Apple milkshake

2006-01-16T17:18:00.000-06:00

1 apple - peeled, cored, and chopped
1 1/2 cups milk
3 scoops vanilla ice cream
2 tablespoons white sugar

Put the apple, milk, ice cream, and sugar in a blender, then blend until smooth.

Thursday product review Burt’s Bees Milk & Honey Body Lotion

2006-01-12T13:33:00.000-06:00

Burt’s Bees Milk & Honey Body Lotion

This lotion also showed up in a Christmas gift and I like it, but not as well as I like the buttermilk lotion. Very nice with a light fragrance that is not as yummy as the buttermilk lotion. But it is not at all as smelly as the carrot lotion - now that's smelly stuff. And with Burt’s Bees, you don’t have to worry about what kind of relationship you’re “getting into” when you smear the stuff all over yourself! Regardless, you should check the ingredients and research any that concern you.

From their website at http://www.burtsbees.com/

WHY IT WORKS: Never mind the birds and the bees, we’re here to tell you about the cows and the bees. Where soothing milk meets honey in this nourishing yet lightweight moisturizer, you’ll see that they make a natural pair. Honey acts as a natural humectant, aloe soothes and moisturizes as does natural sunflower oil. Perfect for dry and sensitive skin.

HOW IT WORKS: Apply lotion all over body and hands as often as needed.

Ingredients: Filtered water, sunflower oil, vegetable glycerin, coconut oil, stearic acid (vegetable fat), beeswax, fragrance, glucose, honey, milk powder, orange wax, tocopheryl acetate & tocopheryl (vitamin E), rosemary leaf oil, sucrose stearate (sugar emulsifier), aloe barbadensis leaf juice, xanthan gum (natural thickener), sodium borate (natural borax), vegetable oil & beta carotene, glucose oxidase & lactoperoxidase (natural enzymes). 98.20% Natural

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-01-11T09:43:00.000-06:00

Survey: Beauty standards grows more accepting
ALBANY, New York (AP) --
Thin is still in, but apparently fat is nowhere near as out as it used to be.

A survey finds America's attitudes toward overweight people are shifting from rejection toward acceptance. Over a 20-year period, the percentage of Americans who said they find overweight people less attractive steadily dropped from 55 percent to 24 percent, the market research firm NPD Group found.

With about two-thirds of U.S. adults overweight, Americans seem more accepting of heavier body types, researchers say. The NPD survey of 1,900 people representative of the U.S. population also found other more relaxed attitudes about weight and diet.

While body image remains a constant obsession, the national preoccupation with being thin has waned since the late 1980s and early 1990s, said the NPD's Harry Balzer.

Those were the days when fast food chains rushed to install salad bars. In 1989, salads as a main course peaked at 10 percent of all restaurant meals. Today, those salad bars have all but vanished and salads account for just 5.5 percent of main dishes.

Read more here.

Tuesday Tip - forcing bulbs

2006-01-10T08:48:00.000-06:00

In December and January, look for spring blooming bulbs marked "ready for forcing" in the retail shops or catalogs. This means they have been pre-chilled and are reading for potting up in potting mix, pebbles or water to force them into bloom indoors.

Hyacinths are so famous for forcing that retailers sell specially made forcing jars for the job. These hourglass containers keep the hyacinth bulb dry while allowing the roots to rest in water.
A shallow tray filled with pebbles is perfect for forcing paperwhite narcissus. Add just enough water to touch the base of the paperwhite bulb.

Tulips, crocus and large daffodils do best when potted up in containers filled with soilless potting mixes. The specially made potting mixes may be made with peat moss, vermiculite, perlite, sand, charcoal and other organic matter. These lightweight soilless mixes drain extremely well and are recommended for all kinds of containers, including summer pots.

Whatever the container, good drainage will be critical to success. Plant bulbs in the potting mix so that only their pointy tips are visible at the soil line. Water well. Keep the potting medium slightly moist, but not wet.

Place the bulbs in a cool, bright spot, but out of direct sun, until they start to bloom. The better the light, the straighter and stronger the stems.

Move the pots to the desired location once the flower buds start to show color.

Monday recipe - Rice Dish

2006-01-09T16:30:00.000-06:00

Rice Dish

Prepare 1-1/2 cups uncooked white rice

1 egg yolk
4 tablespoons melted butter

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Pour 2 tablespoons of the melted butter into the bottom of an 8x8 glass baking dish. Spread around the bottom and sides of the dish. Using prepared (cooked) rice, mix thoroughly 1/3 cup cooked rice with the egg yolk. Put the rice into the dish and spread across the bottom of the dish, packing lightly into a thin layer. Mound the remaining cooked rice on top of the egg yolk/rice mixture. Cover with foil and place into oven for 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes, take the rice out and pour the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over the rice. Cover the dish again and bake at the same temperature for another 50 minutes. Check the bottom of the dish to see if the yolk has formed a crust – after 45-50 minutes, it most likely has done this. Gently scoop out the rice and then break up the egg yolk/rice mixture, which is lightly stuck to the bottom of the dish. It will crumble as you try to get it out. Spread the rice onto a platter and sprinkle the crumbled egg yolk/rice layer over the top of the rice. It takes a while to prepare, but it is a different way to serve rice.

Thursday Product Review - Burts Bees Baby Bee Buttermilk Lotion

2006-01-05T17:13:00.000-06:00

This stuff found its way into a Christmas present from my thoughtful mother. I love it. I loved it the moment it hit my hand. I like it more than any other lotion I have previously loved. I like the smell and the way it made my hands feel. Try a sample bottle and see if you agree. I think you will.

From their web site:
WHY IT WORKS: Dry skin isn’t inevitable. Treat sensitive skin to this rich, creamy lotion with soothing, natural ingredients like real buttermilk, aloe and sunflower oil. We even use filtered water to make this lotion because when it comes to our recipes, we believe the details matter. Don’t forget baby’s knees and elbows, because those details matter too.
HOW IT WORKS: Apply lotion all over baby's body as often as desired to leave tender skin soft and delicately scented.

Ingredients: Filtered water, sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, vegetable glycerin, stearic acid (vegetable fat), beeswax, fragrance, phenoxyethanol, glucose, orange wax, tocopheryl acetate & tocopherol (vitamin E), aloe barbadensis leaf juice, buttermilk powder, rosemary leaf oil, sodium borate (natural borax), xanthan gum (natural thickener), glucose oxidase & lactoperoxidase (natural enzymes), sucrose stearate (sugar emulsifier).

You may want to check this list out to be sure it is OK with your personal needs. I always look to be sure there are no parabens, for instance.

Wednesday What's in the News

2006-01-05T15:27:00.000-06:00

Showing that it can be done!!

Half of Young Scottish Children Being Raised on Organic Food
http://news.scotsman.com/index.cfm?id=3042006Scotsman -
United Kingdom Babies raised on organic food that parents cannot afford themselves
ALISON HARDIE SENIOR NEWS WRITER
Key points
**Half children under two in Scotland fed on wholly organic food
**Parents buying organic food for infants without buying same for themselves
**Supermarket survey shows infant organic food sales outstrip adult food

Key quote "The health implications of diet are particularly crucial for children as they have a higher intake of food and water per unit of body weight than adults, and their relatively immature organ systems may have limited ability to detoxify substances such as pesticides" - ANNA ASHMOLE, SOIL ASSOCIATION SCOTLAND

MORE than half of Scottish children under two are now fed an exclusively organic diet - even when their parents are unable to afford to buy organic food for themselves.

Organic baby food sales accounted for 43 per cent of the total market in 2004, at a value of £63 million. But sales show that more than half of all Scots parents now buy organic for their youngsters.

The huge growth in the organic market is being fuelled by the success of ready-made products made by companies such as Hipp, which supplies parents with organic purées for weaning babies on to solid food.

The supermarket chain Asda, which admits its sale of organic produce to adults accounts for less than 2 per cent of overall sales, has even begun stocking luxury frozen meals for babies to cope with the demand for organic quality baby food.

Anna Ashmole, the head of the Soil Association Scotland, confirmed that recent statistics showed more than half of Scottish children under two are now fed an exclusively organic diet.

"Having children can be a wake-up call for parents in more ways than one. People naturally want the best for their children and more than half of baby meals sold are now organic.

"The health implications of diet are particularly crucial for children as they have a higher intake of food and water per unit of body weight than adults, and their relatively immature organ systems may have limited ability to detoxify substances such as pesticides," she said.

"On the positive side, organic milk can contain up to 71 per cent more omega 3 than non-organic milk and has a better ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 than conventional milk."

A survey by pollsters BMRB for Hipp found four out of five mothers with infants between six months and a year chose organic food for weaning, compared with just a quarter of mums who weaned their babies 15 years ago. The survey, among 805 mothers and pregnant women, showed their clear rejection of foods grown using chemical sprays.

And it found the main reasons mothers buy organic were "less risk of chemical pesticides" (87 per cent); "no GM" (84 per cent) and "no additives" (80 per cent).

However, the majority of parents still chose not to give themselves a wholly organic diet - with cost being a big factor.

Environmental campaigners hope parents will follow in their children's footsteps, changing forever the eating habits of Scots whose health is critically compromised by a "traditional" diet of fried and fatty foods. Mark Ruskell, the Green MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, said: "There is evidence that people are buying organic food for their children , but just for themselves for special occasions or perhaps the weekend.

The message about pesticides is getting through and parents are becoming more concerned about the effects of the cocktail of pesticides in much of the food produced today.

"Clearly they want the best for their children, and that's why they are buying organic."
The Soil Association Scotland has been encouraging more children to eat organic produce - and helping schools source it from local producers. Hurlford School in Ayrshire is its "gold standard", as pupils there enjoy school meals made from at least 30 per cent organic ingredients. Half the food cooked is from local sources and it is 75 per cent cooked from unprocessed ingredients.
'It's worth it ... you can't put a price on their health' JULIE Miller, from Inverness, feeds her five-month-old son, Jack, on organic food.

She explained: "I have fed Jack on organic food ever since he came home. "It's healthier, and because he's so small I want to give him the best start in life and strengthen his immune system. Because he is young and a small baby, I think it is better for his health.

"I don't really know if he is any different from other babies, and he still occasionally gets a cold.
"The food is slightly more expensive but it's worth it because you can't put a price on their health, so the price doesn't bother me.

"I think if you buy organic ingredients and make food for the baby in bulk, it's not that much more expensive. Buying jars is more costly, I should imagine.

"My husband and I sometimes eat organic food, but not all the time, because of the cost. We cut down on our food bill by buying cheaper food for ourselves and spending the extra on Jack.
"I think we will continue to feed Jack organic food as he gets older because it is better for him.
"I think this is a clear choice my generation of parents seem to be making. "Most of the mothers I know would feed their children this kind of food.

"This will become part of our lifestyle. Organic food tastes nicer - certainly the baby food does.
"I hope being brought up in this way will help Jack to make good choices about food when he is older."

Tuesday Tip - planning ahead

2006-01-03T13:23:00.000-06:00

We're back! Happy New Year!

**Take a look at the landscape and analyze what trees and shrubs are working and which are not living up to expectations or have outgrown their space.
**Make a list of what you’d like to accomplish in the landscape this year, from new beds to adding a water garden or replacing plants. Begin process of selecting contractor and getting estimates.
**Send for seed and nursery catalogs. Order seeds and plants as early as possible for best selection.

Wednesday What's in the News?

2005-12-21T15:35:00.000-06:00

When I lived in a series of drafty and perpetually cold apartments/houses, I became increasingly ill with each winter. That's a fact. Now that I live in a newer home with a perpetually cold husband who can't turn the thermostat below 70 degrees, I am no longer a sickly thing. So this article really caught my eye.

'Wrap up' advice to stop colds
Scientists say cold noses reduce ability to fight virus attacks

LONDON, England (CNN) -- British researchers into the common cold say "catching a chill" really does help colds develop -- and are advising to "wrap up warm" to keep viruses at bay.

Mothers and grandmothers have long warned that chilling the surface of the body, through wet clothes, feet and hair, causes common cold symptoms to develop.

But much previous research has dismissed any link between chilling and viral infection as having no scientific basis.

Now researchers in Cardiff, Wales, say they can prove drops in temperature to the body really can cause a cold to develop.

Read more here.

Tuesday tip

2005-12-20T08:48:00.000-06:00

Posting will likely be sporadic due to Christmas approaching, the holiday season, an unpredictably busy end of the year at work and general laziness when I am not hurrying to get something done. Please be patient! Merry Christmas!

Despite pressure from the pesticide industry, Canada's top court has upheld Toronto's pesticide ban. Toronto's council passed a bylaw in 2003 outlawing pesticide use on lawns and gardens. The pesticide industry has now exhausted all legal avenues of reversing the ban. A number of other Canadian municipalities say they will follow Toronto's lead and pass similar bylaws. Learn more: http://www.organicconsumers.org/school/toronto120905.cfm

Wednesday What's in the News

2005-12-14T16:01:00.000-06:00

Is Conventional Produce Declining in Nutritional Value?
Source: LE Magazine March 2001

Vegetables Without Vitamins

Imagine the surprise of going online and discovering that the vitamin and mineral content of vegetables has drastically dropped.

That’s what happened to nutritionist, Alex Jack, when he went to check out the latest US Department of Agriculture food tables. The stunning revelation came after Jack compared recently published nutrient values with an old USDA handbook he had lying around. Some of the differences in vitamin and mineral content were enormous-a 50% drop in the amount of calcium in broccoli, for example. Watercress down 88% in iron content; cauliflower down 40% in vitamin C content-all since 1975.

Jack took his findings to the USDA, hoping for a reasonable explanation. That was two years ago. He’s still waiting. So is Organic Gardening magazine, which published an open letter, seeking an explanation from Dan Glickman, Secretary of Agriculture. Glickman didn’t respond, but USDA employee, Phyllis E. Johnson did. Johnson (who is head of the Beltsville area office), suggested to Organic Gardening that the nutrient drain should be put in context. According to her, the 78% decrease in calcium content of corn is not significant because no one eats corn for calcium. She further explains that the problem may not even exist at all; that the apparent nutrient dips could be due to the testing procedures. For example, “changes in the public’s perception of what the edible portion is may determine what parts have been analyzed over time.”

In other words, back when the old food tables were made up, people may have been eating the cobb too, so they got more nutrients.

To read more, click here.

Tuesday tip

2005-12-13T10:54:00.000-06:00

Produce with the lowest pesticide levels: asparagus, avocados, bananas, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet corn, kiwi, mangoes, onions, papaya, pineapples and sweet peas. Produce with the highest pesticide levels: apples, bell peppers, celery, cherries, imported grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, potatoes, red raspberries, spinach and strawberries.

Monday recipe - Baked Oatmeal

2005-12-12T08:30:00.000-06:00

This recipe is delicious and can easily be cut in half.

Baked Oatmeal
½ cup oil
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
3 cups uncooked oatmeal
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup milk

Mix all ingredients together. Pour into a 9x9” pan (smaller if you cut the recipe) and bake at 350 degrees until brown on top. Sides should begin to pull away from the pan. Serve warm.

Thursday product review Kirk's Castile body lotion

2005-12-08T10:16:00.000-06:00

Kirk's Castile 100% vegetable unscented body lotion comes in a 4 oz. squeeze container. It is a good size to keep in the bathroom, car or desk. It nicely moisturizes my wintery dry hands. With below zero temperatures and loads of snow on the ground, I do need to use a lot of it every day. I also have a portable heater on my desk that is pointed right at my keyboard. Kirk's products are not tested on animals. The ingredients on the back of the tube on my desk are as follows:

steam distilled water
infusion of organic herbs; Marigold, Passion, Rose Hips, Green Tea
sunflower oil
almond oil
100% vegetable glyceryl stearate
100% vegetable cetearyl glucoside
100% vegetable glycerine
xantham gum
caprylic acid
glycine
jojoba oil
exclusive blend of natural essences
natural vitamin E
grapeseed oil
lecithin

Some may find a few of the ingredients problematic. I would appreciate fewer ingredients myself. The caprylic acid was something I wondered if I should be concerned about, but the stuff is a liquid fatty acid, C8H1602, found in butter and other fats and oils and having a rancid taste. It is used in the manufacture of dyes and perfumes. Doesn't sound so bad after all. Reminder, it always helps to do your research whenever you are unsure about a product or ingredient.

Wednesday What's in the News

2005-12-07T10:15:00.000-06:00

A double header today in the Mad Cow Disease Arena:

New studies indicate grass-fed beef (cattle raised in pasture) is much healthier to eat than grain-fed beef (cattle raised in confinement). Grass-fed beef is up to three times leaner than grain-fed beef, and can have up to 15 fewer calories per ounce than meat from a grain-fed cow. Grass-fed meat also provides more balanced omega-3s, omega-6 fatty acids, beta carotene, vitamin E and folic acid. Mad cow disease has never been found in a 100% grass-fed cow . http://www.organicconsumers.org/madcow/grassfed111505.cfm

The second confirmed U.S. case of the human form of mad cow disease has been discovered in Texas. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is caused by eating beef tainted with the fatal disease. In this case, it is assumed the man caught the disease during the UK outbreak, rather than from U.S. beef, as he is originally from England. http://www.organicconsumers.org/madcow/variant112305.cfm

Tuesday Tip - planting for winter scenes

2005-12-06T12:49:00.000-06:00

Red- or yellow-stem dogwoods (Cornus), green-stem kerrias (Kerria) and river birch (Betula nigra) earn their keep with beautiful bark and branches in winter.

Hollies (Ilex), viburnums (Viburnum), chokeberries (Aronia) and other plants with showy fruit pop when placed in front of evergreens. Ornamental grasses glisten when backlit by the winter sun and the flower heads of hydrangeas (Hydrangea), purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) and other perennials add texture.

Monday recipe - hot wine

2005-12-06T12:48:00.000-06:00

INGREDIENTS:
1 (750 milliliter) bottle red wine
1/2 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 orange
8 whole cloves

DIRECTIONS:
1. In a large saucepan on medium-low heat, combine wine. sugar and cinnamon. Cut the orange in half, push the cloves into the outside of the orange halves, and place them into the wine.
2. Heat SLOWLY on LOW heat for about 30 minutes or until steaming. Do not let it boil. Heat your glasses in warm water before serving.

Thursday review - organic bananas

2005-12-01T17:02:00.000-06:00

Hey, they taste the same! But I bought three organic bananas last week and then didn't eat them as I had planned. So this morning I quickly whipped up a loaf of banana nut bread because the skins were completely black!

I opened the banana peel to find that the banana inside was still in perfect condition. No soft spots, no black spots, not soft and gooey - just the real deal, ready to be used in your cereal or perform the foundation work of a banana split.

Just thought I'd let you know that. I always like when my organic produce goes the extra mile!

Wednesday What's in the News

2005-11-30T15:00:00.000-06:00

Sorry about the delay, everyone. A bit of turkey hangover.

WATSONVILLE, California (AP) -- Farmer Vanessa Bogenholm won't go near the pesticide methyl bromide even though it could boost her strawberry harvest. But just down the coast in Salinas, grower Tom Jones says his berry farm can't survive without the powerful toxin.

The two farmers both help California supply more than 85 percent of the nation's strawberries, but they part ways when it comes to methyl bromide, a soil fumigant that an international treaty has banned as of this year for all but the most critical uses.

Methyl bromide continues in wide use because the Bush administration has convinced other treaty signatories that U.S. farmers can't do without it -- whether for California berries, Florida tomatoes, North Carolina Christmas trees or Michigan melons.

The treaty, called the Montreal Protocol, has targeted methyl bromide because it is among chemicals that deplete the earth's protective ozone layer.

It also can cause neurological damage, but methyl bromide's tenacity demonstrates the difficulty of banishing a substance that is wildly successful at delivering what both farmers and consumers want: abundant, pest-free and affordable produce.

The administration, at the urging of agriculture and manufacturing interests, is pushing for continued treaty exemptions at least through 2008, and officials will not commit to an ending point.

The administration's "fervent desire and goal" is to end methyl bromide's use, said Claudia McMurray, a deputy assistant secretary of state. The exemption requests are decreasing in the next two years, with golf courses, for example, making the cut this year but not next.
However, McMurray said, "I can't say to you that each year the numbers (of pounds used) would automatically go down."

The reason is that agriculture does not have a substitute that can match methyl bromide's stunning efficiency at destroying soil disease and pests.

Odorless and colorless, methyl bromide is a gas that usually is injected by tractor into soil before planting, then covered with plastic sheeting to slow its release into the air. Eradicating parasites and disease like root rot, it results in a spectacular yield, reduced weeding costs and a longer growing season.

But workers who inhale enough of the chemical can suffer convulsions, coma and neuromuscular and cognitive problems. In rare cases, they can die.

Read more: click here.

Copyright 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Tuesday tip - indoor composting

2005-11-22T10:28:00.000-06:00

Just because winter is on its way doesn't mean you have to stop composting. Bring it inside! It's really quite easy to set up a small, clean and effective indoor composting system that will turn your food waste into the best organic fertilizer on the planet. Plus, you'll be the life of every party when people find out you have worms for pets! The landfills are overflowing and so are the water treatment facilities. Turn your food waste into black gold. Learn how to set-up an indoor composting system here: http://www.organicconsumers.org/organic/compost.cfm

Monday recipe - stuffing in a Crockpot

2005-11-21T12:25:00.000-06:00

I made this recipe for the first time last year and it turns out fantastically! Give it a try.

Crock Pot Stuffing
Source: The Rival Crock Pot Cookbook
Yield: 6-8 servings
Stuffing cooked in the crockpot comes out as moist as if it had been cooked inside the turkey and it frees up precious oven space on holidays.
1 cup butter or margarine
2 cups chopped onion
2 cups chopped celery
1/4 cup parsley sprigs
2 cups chopped mushrooms
12 cups bread cubes, slightly dry
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
2 eggs, well beaten
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons sage
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon marjoram (optional)
3 1/2 cups chicken broth or turkey broth

Melt butter in a skillet and saute onion, celery, parsley, and mushrooms. Pour over bread cubes in a very large mixing bowl. Add all seasonings and toss well. Pour in the broth and mix well. Add eggs and mix well again. Pack mixture lightly into the crock pot. Cover and set to high for 45 minutes then reduce to low to cook for 4 to 6 hours.

Thursday review - Trader Joe's and Wild Oats eggs

2005-11-17T08:47:00.000-06:00

today isn't really a review so much as it is information about cage-free eggs. I get a little grossed out at the thought of eating chicken and/or eggs from animals that have been caged so tightly and forced to produce, etc. So today I am again exercising restraint about what I call the "chicken issue!"

Trader Joe's has responded to pressure from the Humane Society of the U.S. and will now provide "cage-free" eggs under its private label products. Presently, the company sells 100 million eggs produced by hens held in cages so small the birds cannot spread their wings. The new policy decision will positively affect over 380,000 birds. Whole Foods Market and Wild Oats have also announced they will also be going cage-free. Organic poultry and egg farms are required to provide access to the outdoors for all animals. http://www.organicconsumers.org/corp/eggs.cfm

Wednesday What's in the News?

2005-11-16T08:32:00.000-06:00

Aquarium Alert: The $330-million-a-year aquarium-fish trade threatens not only clownfish like Nemo and 1,500 other species of exported fish but their increasingly fragile coral-reef ecosystems. Choose only fish bearing the "Marine Aquarium Council (MAC) Certified" label (www.aquariumcouncil.org, 808-550-8217). If you can't locate MAC-certified clownfish, try these MAC-certified alternatives: Snowflake Eel (Echidna nebulosa), $40; Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens), $25; Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto), $20.

Tuesday Tip - Holiday Decorating

2005-11-15T15:18:00.000-06:00

The holiday season is here! If you are like me, you are excited about the holidays and have already started or maybe even finished decorating the house and yard.

Many of you put your Christmas tree up right after Thanksgiving. This year you may have decided to have a real tree. Be sure to select a fresh tree. If you cut the tree yourself you know the tree is fresh. But if you do not cut your own tree, be sure to ask when the tree was cut and check it closely for drying needles. Dry greenery and Christmas trees can be a fire hazard this time of year in your home.

The stump of your Christmas tree should be cut fresh before placing the tree in the tree stand. Keep an adequate supply of fresh water covering this fresh cut at all times. Check the water level daily, and refill when needed. The cooler you can keep the room where you have the Christmas tree, the longer it will stay fresh and green. Do not place the tree near a heat vent, wood stove or fireplace.

At the first sign of needle drop and drying you should dispose of the Christmas tree. A single spark can ignite a dry tree. Use some of the discarded tree material as a mulch over dormant perennials or as a haven for wildlife in a nature area.

Holiday greenery used for decoration should be watched very carefully for signs of drying. Evergreen boughs and wreaths can dry in just a few days. A cigarette ash or match could easily start a fire in one of these center pieces. Never leave an unattended candle burning. Blow out candles in these center pieces after the meal is over.

When decorating landscape trees and the exterior of the house, be careful. Make sure you have a sturdy ladder and someone to help hold the ladder when you are stringing lights in high places. When you are on a ladder, do not lean out or reach. Climb down and move the ladder to a better location. Please have a safe holiday season.

From UN-O Extension

Monday recipe - Goat Cheese Dip

2005-11-14T17:18:00.000-06:00

Goat Cheese Dip with Crudités from WSU extension services

"Crudités" is a fancy name for vegetables served as hors d'ouevres. Try this spirited dip for showcasing baby corn and other fresh garden vegetables.

Dip:
5-1/2 ounces of soft, mild goat cheese
2 tablespoons cold water or milk
2 teaspoons fresh, chopped basil
Pepper to taste 2
tablespoons green onion tops, chopped

Crudités:
Baby corn, chilled
Your choice of vegetables cut into strips or bite-size pieces

Blend first 4 ingredients in processor until smooth. Add green onion tops and blend briefly. Serve with steamed and chilled baby corn and other crudités, such as colorful bell pepper slices, broccoli florets, jicama wedges, radish roses and carrot curls. Include a crusty bread as well. Serves 4.
Adapted from a recipe at: http://food.epicurious.com

Dip only: Calories 108, Fat 8.2 g, Protein 7.6 g, Carb 1.0 g, Fiber 0.1 g, Cholesterol 18 mg, Vit. A 118 RE, Vit. C 0.7 mg, Sodium 148 mg, Calcium 66 mg, Iron 0.8 mg

Thursday review - Kirk's natural update

2005-11-10T14:19:00.000-06:00

Kirk’s natural products, such as their castile soap, are still being offered through the internet and retail stores although the company has recently been sold. Apparently, their inventory on some product is quite low at this point, but if you are really hooked on something you no longer see at their web site, give them a call and ask if they have what you are looking for. Chances are fair you’ll still be able to place an order.

In the meantime, they are looking to continue offering the original products you are used to. They are, as of this writing, completely out of the Vitamin A moisturizer I love so much. But I was told this week that they are going to be making more. I should have an update in a month or so. I was also told that the new owner of the Kirk’s brand has no intention of changing things – still no parabens, no animal testing and so on.

I did notice a while back that the new liquid soap from Kirk’s no longer smells like peppermint. I asked the woman at Kirk’s and she said someone had recently called her and asked her what they had done with the peppermint “line.” So I cleared that one up for her and sent her the old list of ingredients from the peppermint-smelling liquid soap. I like the new stuff, but the peppermint smell is a big hit of happy in your morning shower.

So please be patient with Kirk’s while the new owner gets things underway. If anything changes, I’ll let you know what I find out.

Wednesday What's in the News?

2005-11-09T15:12:00.000-06:00

Parents turn to organic food
Organic baby food sales jump 18 percent in a year
Tuesday, November 8, 2005; Posted: 12:21 p.m. EST (17:21 GMT)

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Erin O'Neal has two daughters and a fridge stocked with organic cheese, milk, fruits and vegetables in her Annapolis, Maryland, home.

She is among the increasing number of parents who buy organic to keep their children's diets free of food grown with pesticides, hormones, antibiotics or genetic engineering.
"The pesticide issue just scares me -- it wigs me out to think about the amount of chemicals that might be going into my kid," said O'Neal, 36.

Since last year, sales of organic baby food have jumped nearly 18 percent, double the overall growth of organic food sales, according to the marketing information company ACNielsen.
As demand has risen, organic food for children has popped up at more than just natural food stores.

For example, Earth's Best baby food, a mainstay in Whole Foods and Wild Oats markets, just reached a national distribution deal with Toys R Us and Babies R Us. Gerber is selling organic baby food under its Tender Harvest label. Stonyfield Farm's YoBaby yogurt can be found in supermarkets everywhere.

The concern about children is that they are more vulnerable to toxins in their diets, said Alan Greene, a pediatrician in northern California. As children grow rapidly, their brains and organs are forming and they eat more for their size than do grown-ups, Greene said.

To read the rest of the article, click here.

Tuesday Tip - NOAA's wind chill chart

2005-11-08T09:49:00.000-06:00

Monday recipe - German Pancake for One

2005-11-07T11:33:00.000-06:00

Monday recipe – German pancake for one

Pam cooking spray (OR you can substitute 1 or 1-1/2 tablespoons of melted butter in the pan)
1 egg
1 tablespoon vanilla (use your new bottle of Singing Dog!)
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

In a blender, combine the egg, vanilla, salt, flour and whipping cream. You can use a mixing bowl and whisk if you don’t have a blender. Spray a baking pan that holds 3 cups*. Pour the contents of the blender into the pan.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the mixture rises by puffing up. Serve at once. Add fruit or whipped cream, if desired. You can also sprinkle it with powdered sugar or eat it plain.

*Pyrex makes a glass baking dish that is about 6X3 and is perfect for one serving-size dishes. I bought mine at Kohl’s. This recipe is easily doubled and can be made in an 8x8 pan. I found this recipe at All Recipes originally, but have modified it to make it less "eggy." I also think if you scraped some vanilla beans into this, it would be great.

Thursday review - Singing Dog Vanilla

2005-11-03T11:30:00.000-06:00

I have tried a fair trade, pesticide-free vanilla extract from Singing Dog Vanilla and I highly recommend it. This is pure vanilla extract, not imitation, and it is grown in Papua, New Guinea without pesticides and other chemicals.

First, I will tell you about my experience with the vanilla extract from Singing Dog. Then I’ll tell you a little about vanilla extract. I made the vanilla milk recipe found on this blog using Singing Dog and I immediately noticed a difference. I wasn’t sure at first what the difference was, but when the milk was hot I thought it tasted “complex.” Not being a food critic, I laughed at myself a little! What did I mean by that? As the milk cooled, I realized that I was tasting vanilla rather than alcohol. Grocery store vanilla (for lack of a better reference to it) is high in alcohol. The taste of the milk was very good with the Singing Dog vanilla. I have also used it in Equal Exchange hot cocoa and it adds a little extra punch of flavor that I really enjoyed.

What I have found while sampling this product is that vanilla extract has fructose or corn syrup added to it. This is something I never realized until now. Singing Dog sent to me a recipe for a no-bake cheesecake using their vanilla extract and their vanilla beans. I made the recipe and believe the vanilla extract and beans make the cheesecake a success. The cheesecake really shows off the vanilla flavor in these products.

I talked about the stinging taste of alcohol that wasn’t in the vanilla milk I made. I think it is interesting that I actually identified the lack of alcohol. I wouldn’t necessarily have assumed it would make such a difference. The government requires a minimum of 35% alcohol in order to call vanilla flavoring an extract and Singing Dog meets that minimum requirement. In the little bit of research I’ve done, many believe that the more alcohol that’s used, the better the product. I guess I think I would rather taste the vanilla than feel the sting, but again, I’m not a food scientist.

Since my vanilla education is lacking, I found a web site that tells me interesting information:
“The extract may also contain sugar, corn syrup, caramel, colors, or stabilizers. All additives must be on the label, but the FDA doesn't require that the percentage of additives be listed. As vanilla is naturally sweet, it isn't necessary to use additional sweeteners, though some companies use 25% or more sugar in their extracts and some use only a small percentage of sugar as a stabilizer. Adding 20% or more sugar to a newly made extract is like fortifying any alcoholic product. It takes the edge off the harshness of the un-aged product, which is, at least partially, why some companies continue to use a significant amount sugar in their flavorings. Extracts made with premium beans and little to no sugar offer a fresh clean flavor to cuisine. Though these extracts may be expensive, the flavor is cleaner and it carries well to the finished product. Vanilla ages during the time that it goes through the channels from factory to your shelf. Some companies hold the extracts in their manufacturing area for up to a year to make certain the extract is well aged before they ship it out.” (emphasis is mine)

According to the FDA, vanilla extract may contain one or more of the following optional ingredients:
(1) Glycerin.
(2) Propylene glycol.
(3) Sugar.
(4) Dextrose.
(5) Corn syrup.

Again, I recommend this product, which is a Fair Trade product that sends a portion of profits back to the original farmer. Singing Dog is a professional product previously sold only to the food industry and now available for retail purchase at www.singingdogvanilla.com.

Note: Keep your vanilla in a cool, dark place away from the stove and do not refrigerate it. Vanilla extract should keep indefinitely under the proper conditions.

Wednesday What's in the News?

2005-11-02T08:42:00.000-06:00

The government just can't leave anything alone - there might be money in something if you turn it upside down and shake it hard enough...

Posted 11/01/05
http://www.ecnnews.com/cgi-bin/15/etstory.pl?-sec-News+fn-fn-organicruling.1030-20051030-fn> Eagle Tribune - Lawrence,MA,USAAs

Organic food becomes popular, defining it gets trickier
By Chris Markuns Staff Writer

Congress last week passed legislation about the definition of organic food. That decision and the lobbying efforts leading up to it made one thing clear: Organic food has made the big time.

There were already plenty of signs marking organic food's permanent place in modern life — the expansion of organic-based grocery chains coast to coast, separate organic lines for nearly every edible product and the announcement last week that McDonald's will serve organic coffee in the Northeast.

Congress overruled a court decision that would have defined organic more narrowly and further restricted use of that powerful label. The court ruling would have meant costly changes for some of the biggest organic food manufacturers, among them the Londonderry, N.H.-based organic giant Stonyfield Yogurt and the Wild Oats grocery chain that has found a comfortable spot in Andover.

The organic food market is booming — to the tune of an estimated $14 billion this year, a long way from the $1 billion spent when laws regarding it were first written in 1990. It's the fastest growing segment of the food universe, according to the Organic Trade Association — at a rate of at least 17 percent a year.

On its face, the debate was technical bickering over things like synthetics and feed percentages and statutory authority. But beyond that is a battle featuring an elemental slice of American life — how we eat, the exploding growth of one way of doing it and the price some of those at its roots believe they are paying for success.

It's about whether the organic on store shelves is really organic, who gets to answer that question, and whether the consumers behind it all actually understand what they're buying.

"I think there's value in defining the food you're getting," said Kathy Rand, who owns the organic-driven Natural Grocer Inc. in Newburyport. "The question is, who's writing the dictionary and what their motives are."

To read the rest of this article, please click here.

Tuesday Tip - winter landscaping

2005-11-01T13:33:00.000-06:00

Choose Plants for Winter Beauty
by Don Janssen, Extension Educator

As you’re leafing through the nursery catalogs and planning landscape changes, you're probably thinking about the size and shape of each plant, the growing conditions it needs and the conditions your landscape provides, characteristics such as flowers and maintenance needs -– protection against pests, pruning, winter protection, etc. All of these are key considerations but once you’ve narrowed your list down to two or three choices, you might also consider what each plant will add to your landscape in winter.

People tend to think about how a plant will look during the growing season but winter accounts for a sizable portion of the year in Nebraska, so why not choose plants that will add color and textural interest to the home grounds then?

Evergreen foliage, persistent fruits and decorative bark are three ways to add visual interest to the winter landscape. Variations in plant shape and branching structure can also add variety to the view.

Evergreens are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and color variations. Evergreen trees and shrubs provide a spot of color in the winter and a dark backdrop for flowering plants in spring and summer. They also provide winter cover for birds and spring and summer nesting places.

A wet area in the landscape can be a problem -- many landscape ornamentals don’t like "wet feet." But red and yellow twig dogwood are well suited to such areas and add color to the late fall and winter landscape. The burgundy red or yellow stems of the dogwood are colorful against a backdrop of winter white.

Homeowners usually plant crabapples for their spring flower display, but persistent fruits in yellow, orange, pink or red may hang around all winter, providing color in the landscape and food for birds and other wildlife. Cultivars known for their winter fruit include ‘Red Splendor’ (red), ‘Harvest Gold’ (yellow) and ‘Sugar Tyme’ (red). A variety of shapes and growth habits are available, also, from almost columnar to round and drooping.

Mention decorative bark and many people will think of River birch, an attractive tree in landscapes because of its white and tan colored bark and peeling texture. Numerous other trees offer interesting bark textures or colors. If you’re looking for a large shade tree, consider London plane tree, an ornamental very similar to the sycamore but less susceptible to anthracnose, a defoliating disease.

One ornamental plant that is grown more for its winter appearance than its summer role in the landscape is Harry Lauder’s walking stick (Corylus avellana ‘Contorta’). The branches of this smallish shrub are twisted and turned in corkscrew-like contortions. Its branch structure is more visible in the winter than during the growing season, when it’s cloaked in leaves. Planted where its unusual silhouette can be seen from your favorite window, this slow-growing ornamental can become a winter focal point of the landscape.