But how can we use such products when we know that large areas of rainforest are often cleared for oil palm plantations? Resident species like elephants, orangutang, rhinos and tigers have lost their homes and some Indigenous peoples have fared little better, being forced off their land and robbed of their livelihoods (WWF.org.au). It’s confronting to think that our beauty regime is causing such devastating consequences.
As individuals we can do something, there is a way forward in all this, there are organisations out there that are solving the problem! When considering products the WWF has some suggestions -
RSPO certification is an assurance to the customer that the standard of palm oil production is sustainable. All organisations in the supply chain that use RSPO certified sustainable oil products are audited to prevent overselling and mixing palm oil with conventional (or non-sustainable) oil palm products.
Another important body is the Forum for Sustainable Palm Oil. All members of FONAP acknowledge their responsibilities in the global supply chain and strive to improve social, economic and environmental conditions in the producer countries. Their commitment to using only certified palm oil sends out a clear message to consumers, policy-makers and above all the producer countries (https://www.forumpalmoel.org/the-fonap).
Weleda are members of both the RSPO and FONAP. Using Weleda you can feel good on the inside and out!
]]>Many are won over by their products. Slowly people have been making small changes (one at a time) that really work for them. We’re also been learning new ways on how to be more mindful of how we live; our home is near a beautiful water way and it’s sad to see the amount of waste that is collected in the rubbish catchments, it’s things like this that has motivated us to make better choices about how we choose to live.
Onya supply a range that really address the difficult issues we face with single-use plastic, from the Bread bag which can be used to freeze bread or to keep your bread out fresh for longer, to the produce bags that can come shopping with you. The Onya bulk food bags are another great option; including freezing all types of foods, like bread rolls to storing kale, beans and other veggies. The traditional plastic freezer bag can officially be replaced!
Worth watching a documentary of Netflix (Episode 4 on Plastics) which is about how plastic came about, and like some other things in this world, you wish we all could’ve thought this through better, now knowing the impact! Before World War II ‘Ford Motor Company’ looked at ways to make car parts from plastics produced from soy-based plastic, these auto parts would’ve been derived from crop waste, unfortunately this never eventuated at the time. It could’ve been a very different world if plastic was a plant-based molecule; but plastic in your regular molecule is a polymer with a very widely differing composition, most plastic are based on the carbon atom, which don’t breakdown.
Like the single use plastic bag, they are usually are made from oil, which few microbes can digest so these plastics don't decay easily. Aren’t we all so glad that those grey plastic single use shopping bags no longer exist at the supermarket. But unless they have been put into soft plastic recycling they still exist somewhere in our world. It takes 500 (or more) years for a plastic bag to degrade in a landfill. Unfortunately, the bags don't break down completely but instead photo-degrade, becoming microplastics that absorb toxins and continue to pollute the environment.
The change can start somewhere, it can start small, but the alternatives are endless - there are options! We can all consider and take small steps of change with the products we’re using. Honestly, a turning point for us comes from our 5 year old son – we where using wet wipes at times instead of washing hands because they were an easy accessible option. One day we watched a video of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, specifically about how our rubbish is affecting the ocean birds as well as the marine life. The images and information in this video affected our son, he decided from that moment on, no more. So we now cut up old cloths that we can wet, use, wash & reuse.
The other plastic use that can be cut out are freezer and snap lock bags. This has been harder because some of the things we love to consume come in bags or need to go in bags before going into the freezer. Not anymore, we’ve addressed it by replacing single-use snap lock bags with metal bento snack boxes or reusable silicon storage bags . Other plastic bag use has been replaced by the Onya bread bag, produce bags and bulk food bags. We find that they work well for dry ingredients and other produce that can be frozen or kept in the fridge. We use them, wash when done and reuse. We plan to have them for a long time and we think it’s worth the effort to prevent plastic getting into our rivers and oceans as well as ending up as landfill.
Not to mention that Onya are B-Corp certified, ethically made, are part of the circular economy and give back 1% of total retail sales to environmental non-profits.
Visit our online store to see the Onya range of reusables, from water bottles to bread bags we are proud to be stocking their range!
]]>It is definitely not easy to claim cruelty free and people often get confused when a product claims to be vegan. Viva La Body is certified by ‘Choose Cruelty Free’, they are an independent, non-profit organisation based in Australia. CCF actively campaign to end animal testing that facilitates to market cosmetics, toiletries and other household products. Why is this so important? Because as consumers we have power to change attitudes about testing products on animals.
With this in mind you can enjoy your Viva La Body products, which ever you choose we know they work, the positive feedback from our customers is overwhelming.
And every time we get our delivery the scent in the workplace is beautiful, you can smell the natural oils and love that go into making these products!
As consumers we all know it can be hard to be totally informed about all the products we use, we think the challenge for all is growing in our understanding, being more aware, reflecting on eco-friendly products and how this aligns with our values - then of course taking action, make that decision to change! Because when we’re able to align our values and convictions with a product that you love using and that it really works it is just bliss! Viva La Body has been able to achieve this for so many!
Is testing on animals that bad? Unfortunately, the beauty industry does not want to make a big deal about this side of their product production. Animal testing is something that might make us feel uncomfortable knowing about, its confronting to think that animals have chemicals forced down their throats, dripped into their eyes or smeared onto their skin to test their safety for use in cosmetics. Animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats and mice are used in this way. This really doesn’t need to be happening. It is estimated that globally around 500,000 animals suffer and die just for cosmetics each year!
The Humane Society International encourage us with the fact that producing cosmetics without animal suffering is actually quite simple, that there is no excuse for companies to continue testing cosmetics on animals. All they need to do is use combinations of thousands of existing cosmetic chemicals already established as safe, combined with available non-animal test methods.
If you’re interested is understanding which brands are truly animal cruelty free head over to Choose Cruelty Free…you can trust the CCF as the accreditation criteria is probably the most stringent in the world today!
Checkout the Viva La Body range we have in stock on our online store.
]]>Why are these greens so good for you?
Because greens are alkaline-forming, they can help quickly flush out that excess acid, leaving you with a well-balanced system and more energy.
Green powders are dietary supplements consisting of powdered fruits, vegetables and other plant-based compounds that can help you pack more nutrients into your regular diet. We still need to make sure we’re getting the recommended intake of the good stuff (veggies, fruits, legumes, proteins).
NutraOrganics use the refractance method where the produce is pulped then laid onto large pads. Gently moving underneath the pulped produce is water at around 80 degrees, which gently evaporates the water out of the produce - leaving a dried product. The nutrient levels retained are around 65% - 80% which means temperature sensitive vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are concentrated and retained in the finished powder.
And with NutraOrganics sustainability is taken into account when sourcing ingredients, they source them as locally as possible, and certified organic wherever possible. They never use artificial ingredients or flavours, fillers, preservatives, or GMO ingredients. You can pronounce every ingredient in their products, and you’ll never spot any mysterious numbers in the ingredients list. Their products are made from real whole-foods, respectfully sourced from the earth and not a lab this is their unwavering commitment.
You can rest assured that you’re getting the very best with NutraOrganics because their mission is to be transparent with their ingredients as they want to help us nourish our family and their’s with the best there is! The Super Greens + Reds Whole-food Multi-Formulation features a nourishing blend of organic greens, fruit, vegetables, sprouts, and herbs with the added benefit of prebiotic fibres in the protein base. Packed full of alkaline greens, antioxidant rich reds, pre and probiotics and 19 essential vitamins and minerals, it's the most convenient way to stay on top of all the goodness you need to feel your best everyday.
Their combination of bio-fermented and sprouted grains, seeds, and legumes is carefully blended to provide the best Super Greens + Reds, making it an excellent foundation to enliven your whole body, helping you feel clear, vibrant and completely nourished.
The range of Super Greens + Reds are available in powder & capsules
What some have to say:
“I have been using this product for over 3 months. I definitely notice the difference if I do not take it in the mornings. I love the fact it contains all the vitamins and minerals my body actually needs, I also love the fact it’s been developed by Naturopaths.”
“I love this powder. I add it to my smoothies, baking and cooking.
I also add it to my smoothie bowls - YUMMO”
“Love this product. Have been using it for years now and notice a big difference in my energy, mood & skin. Tastes yummy too!”
]]>Detergent is a product that is not only about the end result of clean clothes. More people are interested in the ingredients, the impact it has on our eco system or the irritation it can have on your skin as well as the fragrance it leaves on your clothes.
So much goes into the making of detergents from harvesting the raw materials to its production, ethical work conditions and packaging. Thinking about questions like:
Where is it coming from? Where is it made? What’s in it? If its plant based will it clean my clothes well and will it leave my clothes with a nice fragrance? Is the packaging recyclable, biodegradable, compostable?
Depending on what your values and convictions are will determine what think is best for you. It’s worth knowing that the decisions we make can make a difference, not only for our families and neighbourhoods but also for the future of our environment.
Many of the mainstream detergents are easy and accessible on our supermarket shelves but many don’t tick all the boxes for treating us and our environment well. We’re not here to tell you about all the bad stuff other detergent companies do and how they make their products (although if you’re interested read this) but having done the research we know that when you use a detergent from a company that has thought through every aspect in order to benefit people and the environment, it’s worth considering.
If this is something that interests you can we suggest some laundry washing ideas to consider; and you can rest assured that at the least they are…
Australian made: Using an Australian made brand means that we’re supporting Australian families and reducing carbon emissions by at least 85%.
Non-toxic: plant and mineral based, free of phosphate, completely and readily biodegradable, no use of petrochemical surfactants such as ‘LAS' or any SLS which are often linked to skin irritations.
Environmentally friendly: no palm oil, unfortunately Palm oil is now the most widely used oil in the world; food, household cleaners, personal care and cosmetics all contain it, why is it good to limit our use of products with it as an ingredient? Deforestation, the effects are terrifying! (interested read this – PALM OIL)
Cost effective: you only need to use a small amount because its concentrate and being plant derived they have naturally active cleaning qualities. For example with Kin Kin Naturals you only need 30ml per load (we’ve been using it and its true, and the clothes smell great and feel clean)
Kin Kin Naturals Laundry and dishwashing liquids: no toxic chemicals (no phosphates or high alkaline substances), garden, greywater & septic-friendly, plant and mineral based, 95% less sodium than regular products, biodegradable, skin friendly, Australian made = sustainable & ultra concentrated which means you use less with the best results!
We’ve also been using the Kin Kin Naturals dishwasher powder and its amazing!!
Abode Cleaning Products: food grade ingredients (where they are available) NOT industrial grade which are often contaminated with heavy metals, designed by a naturopath and formulating chemist from the ground up for people with skin and chemical sensitivities, grey water and septic tank safe, concentrated formulations make it more affordable than most other brands on the market (up to 810 washes), Australian made and owned
Viva La Body dish wash and laundry soap: Plant based, zero waste and plastic free, suitable for septic systems and have 100% biodegradable ingredients. Cruelty free, certified palm oil free & Australian made
That Red House Soap Berries: Sustainable, organic, zero-waste, chemical free, eco-conscious and healthy way of life for all vegan, raw and paleo. Interested in soap berries check out this link. Take a look at the Tonic too!
If you would like to know any more about these products please reach out, we’re more than happy to help in anyway!
]]>The last few decades have seen a significant increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods; foods which are defined as having an unbalanced nutritional profile. The unbalanced nutritional profile of ultra-processed foods tend to be energy dense, with high levels of saturated fats, salts and carbohydrates, along with containing low levels of dietary fibre. Such a profile has been associated with the origins of these foods - that is, the highly industrialised processes that are used to produce this type of food en masse.
Due to globalised efforts, the ‘big food’ brands have been able to promote and capitalise on a market that has become fixed on the convenience of processed foods. A clear example of this, is Coca-Cola; a company which now has 900 bottling plants across the world, and is distributing 2 billion servings every day.
Research has shown a consistent correlation between ultra-processed food intake and health issues, including diabetes and cancer. While such research needs to continue testing the various controls, the current evidence points to a strong association between ultra-processed foods and a range of harmful conditions, including (and not limited to), heart disease, stroke, cancer and depression. These negative implications are caused by the high levels of sugars, salts and trans-fats, all of which are commonly found in ultra-processed foods.
As consumers, we can also choose another option. Through choosing to consume healthy organic products - which undergo a minimal level of processing - you will be able to strengthen the function and performance of your body without compromising the longevity of your health (not to mention being benefited by the ease of a convenient product!).
Welcome Organics is please to be providing our customers with a large range of organic products, which are perfectly suited to be consumed ‘on-the-go’.
Selective herbicides have been developed to target particular plant species/varieties (through a specific application rate), while sparing the crop or pasture from being affected by the herbicide. Conversely, non-selective herbicides (also called knockdown herbicides) will damage most plants within application. Such herbicides include both glyphosate and paraquat. A commonly used non-selective herbicide is Glyphosate. This chemical is one of the active ingredients used in Round Up, and has revolutionised weed control in food production .
Herbicides can also contaminate ground and surface water. This is caused through the un-careful rinsing and/or disposal of herbicide containers, particularly when it occurs near drainage areas. Contamination can also occur when the chemicals are transported throughout the atmosphere during and after application, due to spray drift. Such a transportation can lead herbicides to surface and groundwater via precipitation. Herbicides also have the potential to destabilise a plant environment. For example, by reducing the present native grasses within an ecosystem, the micro-environment becomes more susceptible to invasive grass species, as such species will have reduced competition. Not only does this aspect reduce the diversity of the native plant-life within an ecosystem, but it also exacerbates the dependency on the unsustainable means of weed control.
Unfortunately, the Australian grains industry has become heavily dependant on using herbicides for weed control. Not only is the industry spending $1 billion on this chemicals annually, but a significant portion of wheat farmers regularly use knockdown herbicides (76 to 93%) and post-emergence herbicides (69 - 88%) for their production. However, there are certified organic wheat farmers that are choosing a different (and much healthier) way of producing wheat; a way that has little dependency on the chemicals used in conventional farming methods.
The Victorian-based brand, ‘Hakubaku’, utilises these organic-certified wheat sources, in order to bring the flavours of Japanese noodles to the dinner plates of the Australian food-lover. From Ramen and Udon, to Soba and Somen noodles, Hakubaku makes authentic, premium-quality, certified-organic noodles,.sing the purest, healthiest ingredients. The organic certification of Hakubaku ensures that their products are produced without any chemical pesticides, herbicides, insecticides or genetically modified ingredients (GMOs).
Welcome Organics is pleased to not just be supporting a local Australian business, but to be strengthening the consumer’s accessibility to healthy and organic food.
]]>But let’s dig a little deeper into the effects from chemicals.
We all know the harm that these chemicals are causing to humans. But are we aware of how chemicals are actually harming the health of the soil that is used to grow our food?
Yes, ‘soil health’ is a thing! In a nutshell, the term ‘soil health’ refers to the condition of the soil’s potential to sustain biological productivity and environmental sustenance. A healthy soil is characterised by the rich biodiversity in both the soil and it’s surrounding environment, it’s ability to store water, and most importantly, to support a healthy produce. A ‘unhealthy soil’ is characterised by a lack of biodiversity, poor water storage, increased levels of erosion and a depletion of the inherent soil nutrients.
But how does this relate to chemicals?
Well the chemicals that are used within conventional farming practices - including herbicides (used to limit the growth of unwanted plants) and insecticides (used to limit the presence of insects) - are harmful to soil health. Due to soil health being dependent on environmental biodiversity, the use of such chemicals limit the potential for any biodiverse processes to occur within and outside of the soil itself. Such a detriment has the capacity to impact not only the quality of produce, but also the longevity of environment itself.
The immediate and long-term benefits of improved soil health should not be overlooked. Healthy soil reduces the costs of inputs - including chemicals, fertilisers and even water usage - along with improving the soil’s ability to contain water and nutrients for plant growth. In addition, the improved nutrients of the soil (resulting from a biodiverse environment, amongst other factors) allows for a greater support for healthy consumable foods.
Thankfully, there are food brands that are on the forefront of prioritising environmental longevity. One of these brands is Alter Eco, whose entire product offering is certified organic. Yet Alter Eco have gone the extra mile to ensure that they are supporting Regenerative Agricultural Practices which are aimed at restoring the health of our soils. It is for this reason, that Alter Eco are pursuing Regenerative Organic Certification; a pursuit that will support a holistic and contributive approach to sustainable farming.
Alter Eco are known for their delicious chocolate bars and truffles, which are produced using high quality organic cacao (sourced from farmers that are replanting forests around the globe) and coconut oil.
Welcome Organics is stoked to be stocking these delicious chocolate products from Alter Eco. View our store to get your hands on these indulgent treats and support the regenerative endeavours of Alter Eco.
Strengthening the health of your gut is imperative to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But how exactly do you strengthen your gut? Here’s a rundown on three key ways for strengthening your gut health.
1. Consume more probiotics
Probiotics are the ‘good bacteria’ in your gut, fighting off the bad bacteria and ensuring that your body is kept in a healthy and functional state. While Probiotics are closely associated with the gut, the health of the gut is interconnected to other parts of the body, as the health of your gut is known to impact the communicative signals between the stomach to the brain; an impact which can have negative health affects. Most probiotics fall into two categories: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium; both of which are found in abundance in fermented foods. Welcome Organics has a range of fermented, probiotic-rich foods, such as this delicious saurkraut garnish from Terrasana.
2. Consume more prebiotics
Probiotics tend to steal the limelight from prebiotics, but that doesn’t reduce their importance, by any means. In addition to probiotics, prebiotics are the most commonly used substances taken to sustain a healthy microbiome and restoring balance when the bacterial homeostasis has been affected by disease. While they cannot be digested, prebiotics act as both a fibre, along with being a food source for the microbe colonies of good bacteria in the gut. By consuming probiotics, these good bacteria are able to grow and strengthen. Prebiotic fibres can be found in a range of foods, including fruit, vegetable and whole-grains. Organic food is also rich in prebiotics, and these dried goji berries from Nature’s Delight are a prime example of a food source that is rich in prebiotics.
3. Consume more polyphenols:
Polyphenols are natural micronutrients that are also included in many supplements. There are many types of polyphenols - at least 8, 000! Polyphenols are also known for acting as a strong antioxidant and are imperative to combating cell damage. Polyphenols can be found in a swathe of food types, including beverages, spices, nuts, seeds and legumes. Welcome Organics’ has a range of products rich in polyphenols, and our collection of green tea, olive oil and berries are sure to boost your body’s antioxidant levels!
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Definition
The ‘gut microbiome’ refers to the plethora of microbes (including bacteria, archaea and fungi), which are found in the intestinal system. The microbiota, refers to the specific microorganisms that exist within a specific environment, such as the gut. These microbes found within the gut microbiota are numerous, to say the least, as they are ten times higher than the number of cells in the body.
Function
The function of the gut microbiome is to provide the essential fermentation of non-digestible substrates (such as dietary fibres), in order to support the regulatory functions of the body. Not only is the gut microbiome crucial for maintaining health, but it is also crucial for preventing gut microbiome dysbiosis (the term given to the events that results from the deregulation of diet and lifestyle choices).
Condition
The state of the gut microbiome also dictates the potential for disease or health within the gut. A dangerous level of sugar (fructose) intake, excessive consumption of protein and increased intake of saturated fatty acids, can have a number of negative affects. This includes the inflammation of the gut, insulin resistance and potential cognitive decline. Sugar alternatives, like sweeteners, have been shown to have negative effects on gut microbes, as sucralose, aspartame and saccharin all disrupt the balance and diversity of the gut microbiota. Similarly, food additives (such as emulsifiers), which are commonly found in processed foods, have been proven to have negative effects. Conversely, an increased intake of dietary fibre and probiotics will have positive results. By prioritising the health of the gut, you will experience low inflammation in the gut, reduced risks of infections and the increased production of antioxidants (amongst other benefits).
Diversity
Diversity is key indicator of microbiota health, as people with diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and arterial stiffness (amongst other conditions), have been observed to have lower bacterial diversity. Additionally, studies of overweight and obese participants have revealed a shared characteristic of a lower level of bacterial diversity. Thus, the diversity of bacteria is indicative of a “healthy gut”.
Welcome Organics is pleased to provide a large range of products rich with probiotics and dietary fibres. Prioritise your gut health today and view our products that will strengthen your gut microbiome and improve your health.
]]>According to the WWF, waste mismanagement is one of the more significant contributors of waste polluting the environment. This is due to undeveloped waste management procedures leading to a decreased control of waste landfills; resulting in 87% of mismanaged waste being leaked into nature. While 2016 saw a third of plastic waste ending up in nature (accounting for a total of 100 million metric tons of plastic waste), the WWF is predicting that the ocean will host 1 metric ton of plastic for every metric ton of fish by 2025.
Fortunately, each of us can make a small yet powerful change to help reduce this ecological disaster. By following these three simple steps, you will be able to continue your life just as it was, but with a much lower environmental impact.
1. Say goodbye to single use plastics.
The words ‘single-use plastics’ should be sounding the alarm bells. Not only are they harmful to the environment, but they can take centuries to break down naturally. This means that a seemingly harmless, single-use plastic item can actually have an extremely long-term devastation on the environment.
While using single-use cutlery can be a convenient solution to dinner parties, picnics and backyard barbecues, the environmental impact that is caused should not be overlooked. It is estimated that 40 billion plastic utensils are wasted per year in the United States alone. Worst of all, many of these disposed utensils end up not only in our waterways and local ecosystems, they end up in animals that we eat. In turn, we consume the micro-plastics which are contained in these animals.
By choosing to move away from single-use plastics to bamboo utensils, you will be making an easy transition to the same convenience, but with minimal environmental impact. Welcome Organics is pleased to provide a range of convenient bamboo utensils, including cutlery sets, straws and sporks.
2. Grab a reusable bag.
The lightweight nature of plastic bags means that they can be easily swept away to the worst places. From local parks to beachside, keeping plastic bags from these areas means that everyone will be able to continue enjoying these locations, not to mention the wildlife that these areas offer. Many single-use plastic bags are also manufactured from fossil fuels; a resource which is a significant contributor to carbon emissions. By choosing reusable bags, you’ll be making a simple yet effective step in reducing your carbon footprint. Welcome Organics are pleased to stock a range of reusable bags, all of which are strong, durable and perfect for your next trip to the shops.
3. Swap out your toothbrush.
Yes. Toothbrushes. What is so bad about them? Well, consider the advice of your dentist. If their advice is not too dissimilar from the American Dental Association, then you will be recommended to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If every toothbrushing Australian is heeding similar advice, then around 80 million toothbrushes will be disposed each year. That is just a shadow of the US, which sees about 23 billion toothbrushes being trashed each year. Worst of all, it is understood that it can take up to 1000 years for a toothbrush to fully decompose. The compounding effect of billions of toothbrushes being disposed (each of which lasts for 1000 years), should send shivers down your spine. By making the seamless switch to bamboo toothbrushes, you will be making a plastic-free contribution to the world.
In 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics highlighted that “epidemiologic evidence demonstrates associations between early life exposure to pesticides and pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems”.
Since then, there has been a growing body of research literature showing that an organic diet decreases a child’s the exposure to pesticides. Such research indicates that a child’s exposure to pesticides, poses a greater threat as compared to adults. This is because children consume more food on a per-weight basis than adults, and thus experience a higher exposure to dangerous chemicals. Furthermore, children are more vulnerable to the effects of toxins as they are still developing.
Organic crops also have a higher concentration of antioxidants. Such antioxidants include Polyphenolics, which are integral in treating a range of issues, including cardiovascular diseases, digestion issues, diabetes and neurodegenerative disease. There are a range of foods that are rich in polyphenolics, including berries, nuts and green tea.
Conventional food sources are also susceptible to higher levels of Cadmium (Cd). Cd is a heavy metal contaminant, which is found in a variety of foods, including cereals, vegetable, nuts and meat products. While Cd might not seem too insidious, it actually poses a threat to the kidney, as it can cause renal failure. Thankfully, organic crops and products, have a lower level of toxic Cd than non-organic products. A study from the UK has shown that the levels of Cadmium were 48% lower in organic crops (compared to conventional crops).
The developmental importance of your child should not be compromised by the dangers of toxicants. Through implementing an organic diet, your child will be able to develop healthy levels of antioxidants, while avoiding the threats of pesticides and Cadmium.
Welcome Organics is excited to providing our customers with healthy alternatives (which are also a hit with the kids!). This includes freeze-dried fruits from Abslutefruitz, a large range of organic nuts from Nature’s Delight and organic green tea from Planet Organic.
]]>Yet there is a second destructive nature of plastic. A study from the University of Newcastle - which is the first global analysis on the problems surrounding the human ingestion of micro plastics - has revealed some pertinent yet harrowing findings.
These warning signals should be alerting us to the ecological and health disaster that has come about due to the pollution of plastics. Not only is plastic endangering the natural environment, but it has interrupted the food chain.
WWF International Director General, Marco Lamertini says “not only are plastics polluting our oceans and waterways and killing marine life - it’s in all of us and we can’t escape consuming plastics...If we don’t want plastic in our bodies, we need to stop the millions of tons of plastic that continue leaking into nature every year. In order to tackle the plastic crisis, we need urgent action at government, business and consumer levels, and a global treaty with global targets to address plastic pollution.”
What was once an item that we thought we were disposing, has now become an item that we are unknowingly consuming.
Perhaps we, as individuals, should be asking ourselves how we can address and possibly fix these issues. Thankfully, there are positive steps being taken to help counter the prevalence of plastics. Many environmentally-conscious brands are addressing this dilemma by using eco-friendly packaging for their products.
Welcome Organics is pleased to be on the forefront of countering the problematic consumption of plastics in conventional products, by providing customers with a much better option. From re-usable bread bags and produce bags (made from recycled plastics), to bamboo sporks and sustainable clothing pegs, Welcome Organics has range of environmentally-friendly products, designed to make your life easier, safer and healthier.
Gut health may seem mysterious, but it’s impact on the health of Australians has been made evident. In 2018, it was shown that 50% of Australians experienced gut health problems (Belobrajdic, D., Brownlee, I., Hendrie, G., Rebuli, M., Bird, T., 2018).
For something so mysterious, yet that has a profound impact on our health, forces one to wonder how exactly the gut works. Well, the gut is a complexly interconnected system, incorporating the functions of the stomach, oesophagus and intestines in order to make digesting as seamless as possible. The gut is also connected to the brain, as the related nerves send signals from the stomach to the brain in order to stop eating. The disruption of the accuracy of these signals results in an unclear connection between the gut and the brain; a disruption which can have negative health impacts.
Fortunately, many gut health issues can be addressed by feeding the body probiotics. Simply put, probiotics (more commonly known as ‘good bacteria) work to maintain a healthy balance within your body, by fighting off the ‘bad bacteria’ through supporting the immune function, and ultimately, helping you to feel healthy.
“We now know that the GI tract is full of trillions of bacteria that not only help us process food but that also help our bodies maintain homeostasis and overall well-being,” says Dr. Tara Menon (Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center).
Gut health issues can also be reduced by avoiding the consumption of excessive sugars, processed foods, genetically-modified organism (GMOs) and artificial sweetness, as all of these foods can reduce the good bacteria in your gut, along with contributing to metabolic diseases.
Welcome Organics is pleased to have range of product offerings that will help you maintain optimal gut health. Our friends at Stoney Creek, have a protein rich, fibre rich and GMO free Golden Flaxseed Meal; a great addition to a range of dishes and condiments. Additionally, we are proud to offer an Immune Priobiotic from Premedy, which will act as a strong support for a healthy immune system, along with reducing the impact of common cold symptoms.
See our store for more details.
]]>Australians are also demonstrating a preference for authenticity, with 55% of Australian organic customers saying that they look for a certification logo on labels, so as to determine the legitimacy of the product.
"More than six in ten shoppers agree that an organic certification mark would increase their trust in organic products, with over a quarter (29%) saying that an organic certification mark would have a strong level of influence over their organic purchase decisions” says Australian Organic General Manager, Niki Ford.
The Australian Organic Market Report also highlighted the fact that the barriers to buying organic products have recently changed. While customers once perceived the cost as being the primary barrier to buying organic, this has now become less of an issue, as such customers are now more willing to pay for the advantages provided by organic products. These advantages are highlighted by the report, as customers indicate their preferences for products that are chemical-free (80%), environmentally friendly (71%) and free of additives (65%).
At Welcome Organics, we strive to provide our customers with a range of products that are free of chemicals, free of additives and are environmentally friendly. We are also proud to support our organically certified suppliers from all across Australia.
Visit our product page to learn more.
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More and more Australians are turning to organic food in their regular weekly shop, and for good reason. Popular opinion tells us that organic is good for us, but do we really know why?
For a start, organically grown food is free from harmful chemicals. It’s also loaded with nutrients and is the smart choice to preserve the environment. And the fact that it tastes great makes the decision to embrace this global trend pretty convincing.
Here are 7 reasons why it’s better to go organic.
1. No harmful chemicals
Chemicals are poison and unfortunately, they are present in commercially grown food. We also don’t know the long-term effects on our health that ingesting a cocktail of chemicals will cause. Organic farmers don’t use chemicals or pesticides on their crops, guaranteeing fresh food right from the source.
2. No GMOs
Chemicals are poison and unfortunately, they are present in commercially grown food. We also don’t know the long-term effects on our health that ingesting a cocktail of chemicals will cause. Organic farmers don’t use chemicals or pesticides on their crops, guaranteeing fresh food right from the source.
3. It’s better for the environment
Organic farms are committed to preserving the environment. They focus on sustainability and respect the natural biodiversity of the environment by using organic fertilisers and crop rotations which help to combat soil erosion and lead to less groundwater pollution. And, organic farming creates stable habitats for local wildlife.
4. It’s better for you
There are more nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and enzymes than what you’ll find in commercially grown food. A number of significant studies have shown that when comparing the nutritional value of organic against commercially
grown vegetables, fruits and grains, organic comes out on top. On average, organically grown foods provide more than 20% iron, 27% more vitamin C, almost 30% more magnesium and over 13% more phosphorous.
5. It tastes great
As a rule, organically grown foods taste better because well-balanced and nourished soil produces strong and healthy plants and you’ll be able to enjoy the real taste of the food without any additives, unnecessary flavouring and artificial preservatives.
6. Future generations will benefit
Buying organically grown foods will help to create a sustainable future for many generations to come. While research shows that pesticides can be related to birth defects, neurological problems and cancer, by going organic you can do your bit to build stronger generations.
7. Avoid hormones and other drugs in animal products
Antibiotics, drugs and growth hormones are directly passed into meat and dairy products from the feed of animals that are not organically raised. This cocktail of additives passes to us and can weaken the immune system and cause a multitude of health problems.
Skin is the body’s largest living organ, so it’s essential that we take care of it. Unfortunately, many personal care products on the market contain toxins and chemicals that suffocate the skin so that it can’t breathe properly. Chemicals are easily absorbed into the skin and can enter the bloodstream which can lead to a variety of conditions such as skin allergies and headaches.
Many people are now turning to organic skincare products, sourced from nature. They are full of beneficial antioxidants and moisturisers and as they are made from organic ingredients, they are grown and produced sustainably using the most advanced practices. And importantly, organic skincare products are not tested on animals.
Aficionados of organic skin care claim that they actually work better than their mainstream artificial counterparts. But how? Quite a number of chemical ingredients are used in non-organic skin care products for cheap filling and a quick fix, but they actually do your skin more harm than good. In the long-term, synthetic ingredients can cause irritation, sun sensitivity and, as with anything chemical, there is talk they can lead to cancer.
While organic skin care will not be a miracle overnight cure, it is actually changing your skin from the inside out, instead of just on the outside. It will also benefit your overall health and the health of the planet.
Natural products work with your skin to enhance its regenerative and healing properties, with the result being skin that not only looks radiant but feels radiant, too.
Here’s a list of some of the harmful ingredients to avoid when choosing skincare:
Sodium lauryl sulphate
Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben
Stearalkonium chloride
Triethanolamine
Propylene glycol
Diazolidinyl urea and imidazolidinyl urea
Natural skincare products can assist in the anti-ageing process while nourishing the skin and keeping it healthy. Some of the best ingredients to look out for when buying natural skincare includes:
Essential oils – they get into the deep layers of the skin to hydrate, nourish and rejuvenate skin cells.
Vitamin A – this will moisturise the skin and scalp and enhance the skin’s elasticity.
Vitamin B – great for hair, skin and nails and can soothe dry skin.
Vitamin E – this will soften the skin and moisturise within the epidermis.
Vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant, this can restore a smooth surface to skin showing signs of ageing.
Unrefined vegetable and nut oils – these are full of lipids, triglycerides, sterols and antioxidants and help restore barrier function.
Herbs and botanicals such as aloe vera, lavender oil and nettle.
Also keep an eye out for shea butter, olive oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil and hemp oil, grapeseed extract, seaweed extract and pomegranate extract.
]]>There’s no denying that as a nation, we’re becoming more health-conscious. And while the fitness trend is in full swing, we are also becoming more conscious of what foods we eat. We all know the benefits of kale, chia, oats and berries and the importance of eating well and eating healthy. So, we’ve done some research to find out some of the best superfoods to get acquainted with in 2017.
1. Watermelon Seeds
While watermelon is a very popular fruit, we usually don’t eat any of the seeds. But, maybe we should start. Watermelon seeds are loaded with nutrients including essential proteins, minerals and fatty acids. They’re rich in vitamin B such as thiamine, niacin, riboflavin and folate as well as magnesium, potassium, manganese, iron, zinc, phosphorus and copper.
Watermelon seeds are said to prevent the signs of ageing due to the antioxidants and oils they contain which make your skin look healthier, younger and more vibrant. Studies show that results can be seen by consuming one or two handfuls of watermelon seeds each week.
Try roasting them and eat them as a snack or sprinkle on salads or drink watermelon seed tea which can benefit cardiac health.
2. Blackcurrants
These beauties are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and are being touted for their effects on muscle recovery, performance and fat burning. But that’s not all they’re good for. They can be used as an aid to help the immune system, eye and gut health, blood flow and kidney health. Blackcurrant extracts have been shown to reduce risk factors for metabolic conditions such as types 1 and 2 diabetes.
The entire blackcurrant plant – from the leaves to the seeds – can be used for a number of conditions. The most common form is blackcurrant seed oil, but you can also make tea from the plant’s leaves (fresh or dried). Blackcurrant juice is a potent way to get this superfood into your body, but you can also try blackcurrant powder.
Full of vitamins, the most prevalent being vitamin C, blackcurrants have four times the amount of vitamin C that you’ll find in oranges and twice the number of antioxidants as blueberries. Their leaves have a range of properties including antiviral, antitoxic and antiseptic. The high GLA content in blackcurrants can help to reduce joint and muscle damage, pain, stiffness and soreness.
Clinical trials in the United States have shown that blackcurrants can improve eye function including blood flow to the eyes and symptoms of visual fatigue (particularly from computer work). One study showed that one tablespoon of blackcurrant berries reduced eye strain within two hours of taking it.
3. Algae
Get ready for an ‘algae boom’ – it might not be too far away. Rich in omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA) found only in oily fish, algae is great for vegans and vegetarians who want to supplement their diet with these essential fatty acids.
But non-meat and dairy eaters aren’t the only ones who can benefit from algae. Spirulina, popular at juice bars and in supplements for many years, is a type of algae and more than 90% of baby formulas use algae oil as the source of their healthy fats. This type of algae is known as Chlorella and is packed with nutrients such as healthy triglyceride oils, protein and micronutrients.
When made into an oil, algae has less saturated fats than olive or canola oil, making it a great alternative for healthy cooking.
4. Black bean pasta
This might just be the ticket if you love pasta but are trying to avoid it. Black bean pasta is a great source of plant-based protein, and it’s gluten-free. It’s very high in fibre so will help with digestion and because it’s digested slowly, will make you feel fuller for longer. It’s also been shown to help with weight loss.
With a low sugar content, it’s an ideal choice for diabetics and weight watchers and is also very high in antioxidants. Research studies have shown that black beans can play a large role in good heart health, promoting anti-hypertensive properties.
And what you see is what you get – black bean pasta is just spaghetti noodles made from black beans, with no preservatives or additives.
5. Turmeric
We’ve been onto this one for a while, and 2016 really saw turmeric come into its own due to its many health benefits. In fact, turmeric is one of the most effective nutritional supplements available to us and studies show that it has major benefits for your brain and body.
In addition to being the spice that gives curry its yellow colour, turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a medicinal herb. It contains compounds called curcuminoids, the most important being curcumin, which is the main active ingredient in turmeric. Curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.
Turmeric is also believed to dramatically increase the antioxidant capacity of the body, while curcumin has been linked to improved brain function and lowering the risk of brain diseases. It may be helpful in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s and has shown promise in the treatment of depression.
Curcumin is also being touted to improve heart health, help fight the ageing process and has been known to help the painful and often crippling effects of arthritis.