Is Your Healthy Food Making You Sick?

There is nothing more difficult than to write about food in connection with health. The subject is vast and controversial. Countless nutrition experts, thousands of health influencers, hundreds of books, dozens of fad diets, and still so many unhealthy people trying desperately to figure out why they are not getting any better despite religiously following the latest health and nutrition advice. 

When you take two experts with conflicting views, both will argue that their way of obtaining nutrition is the only way and everything other than that is either completely wrong, or just misguided. What complicates things even more is the fact that both experts base their statements on latest research and often on their personal, real life experience. Nutritional "converts" who "have seen the light" are the worst since they seldom leave any room for deviation from the method that worked for them.

How to make sense of it all? Just look at the macro-nutrients: carbohydrates, protein, fats. Some experts will tell you not to eat any carbs at all, others that you should not to touch any fat. There is a whole fitness movement telling people to eat only red meat, bacon, eggs and butter. Some experts suggest that fish and seafood should be consumed as the only animal protein. Others swear that a fat-free vegan, raw vegan, or the fat-free raw vegan diet is the only way for you to have a long, healthy life.

How about the micronutrients - vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids? It is a well known fact that vegans often lack vitamin B12, DHA omega 3 fatty acid, and the amino acid taurine, while those on a strict carnivore diet often lack magnesium, vitamin C and fiber, and may have increased risk of colorectal cancer. People who embraced the fat free diet, on the other hand, have difficulty absorbing fat soluble vitamins from their food.

Food is problematic for many reasons. Some foods, like peanuts, shrimps, celery, or strawberries are potent allergens. People with celiac disease cannot eat anything containing gluten. People who cannot digest lactose should stay away from cow's milk and cow's milk products. And so on, but food is more complicated than that. Animal fats like butter and lard are high in saturated fat that is considered to be detrimental to heart health. There is also a big concern about the hormones and antibiotics that might have been used in the animal husbandry, not to mention the ethical, environmental, cultural or religious concerns.

So, how about fruits and vegetables? Here things get even more complicated. Many plants produce endocrine disruptors and goitrogens. During their evolutionary history plants developed survival strategies. Unlike a deer that can escape a hunter, a carrot or a cabbage is completely stuck in the spot it grows. In order to survive and carry their genetic information to the next generation, plants developed compounds that make them indigestible or even poisonous to humans or animals thus preventing their extinction. Although these anti-nutrients can cause serious upset in some people, plants are generally considered "healthy" food choices since they carry such vital nutrients like vitamins, minerals, enzymes, fiber, protein and beneficial bio-active compounds like pycnogenol or resveratrol, that act in synergy to reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.

While some of the plant anti-nutrients can have beneficial, anti-oxidant effects in the human body, some can cause 

• altered microbiome 
• serious damage to the digestive system 
• inflammation
• potential auto-immune response 
• malnutrition since they interfere with nutrient absorption
• severe allergies
• and even poisoning. 

Soaking, sprouting, cooking, or fermentation are the strategies many cultures use not only to improve nutrient availability but also to make the otherwise problematic foods more easily digestible. 

 

Here are some of the anti-nutrients found in plants: 

• alcaloids - naturally occurring nitrogen-containing compounds that are found in plants, fungi, bacteria and animals, some being extremely toxic, some used by humans as hallucinogens, aphrodisiacs or medicines (ex. quinine, morphine, ephedrine)
• cyanogenic glycosides - cherries, peaches, corn, almonds
• gluten - grains
• glucosinolates - goitrogenic compounds in cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, kale and broccoli
• glycoalkaloids - plants in the nightshade family like tomatoes and eggplants, as well as  potatoes (skin, sprouts, the "eyes")
  
• histamine - bananas, strawberries, papaya, citrus fruit, tomatoes, spinach, almonds, pistachio nuts, sauerkraut, cinnamon, cloves
• lectins - raw beans, peanuts, whole grains, nightshade vegetable such as tomatoes and potatoes
• oxalates - spinach, Swiss chard, rhubarb, beets, cacao, almonds, cashew nuts, dried apricots, kiwis, raspberries, cinnamon and turmeric as a spice
• phenols - most berries, grapes, apples, spinach, red lettuce, broccoli, and citrus fruit
• phytates (phytic acid) - grains, seeds, nuts
• protease inhibitors - grains and legumes 
• pyrrolizidine alkaloids - hepatotoxic and genotoxic compounds that are found in some flowering plants and herbs like borage, traditionally used as medicine; honey, bee pollen, grains, milk, eggs and organ meats (offal) can contain these toxic alkaloids.
• salicilates - most fruits and vegetable, especially tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, spinach, and zucchini 
• saponins - legumes, especially peanuts; grains especially quinoa; licorice root, spinach
  
• sulforaphane - cruciferous vegetable such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, arugula, watercress
• tannins - red wine, tea, cacao but also grains such as barley, corn and quinoa; beans, lentils, chickpeas; nuts such as hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans, pine nuts and Brazil nut; seeds such as chia, sesame, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds; red skinned apples and kiwis

People who are sensitive to one or more of these compounds should avoid foods that have the potential to make them sick. 

Some people report almost miraculous healing from chronic diseases when they stop eating fruits and vegetables. Others improve considerably when they stop eating grains. Those who have chosen raw food or the raw vegan diet report incredible improvement in their health. They have more energy, lose weight (where necessary), sleep and look better. Many stay healthy for a very long time, especially if they supplement with the nutrients that are missing in their diet, but some people get very sick when they start juicing and eating large amounts of fruit and leafy greens. The raw food diet may include too many nuts and too much fructose. Too many dates, too many bananas and other sweet fruits in your diet can cause blood glucose spikes and energy crashes. 

A store bought vegan milk alternatives often contain added sugar, added seed oil and the gut lining damaging carrageenan. I don't even want to talk here about the rather common contamination of crops with heavy metals, or about the pesticides in conventionally grown produce, not even about the genetically modified crops. This is a subject for another article.

 

Results of a small, three-day study involving 14 people was published recently and surprised some in the raw food community. The participants were divided into three groups: one group was given whole plants, the second group was doing a juice fast, and the third one was given a mix diet of whole plants and juices. Those who did the juice fast had the biggest changes in their microbiome and showed an increase in inflammation causing bacteria. The problem with the study is that it wasn't a double-blind study and involved only fourteen people. Also, I did not find any information on what kind of juices were given to the participants. The only information was that the juice did not have any fiber and contained too much sugar. My questions: Was the juice freshly pressed? And! Who tries to do a cleansing juice fast with sugar loaded fruit juices? This is not how it should be done. Another question, if you are unhealthy and have distorted microbiome, what happens to you when you go on a green juice fast?

Interestingly, many raw food lovers who perform a green juice detox annually report increased stamina, improved digestion, and a healthier looking skin. An alternative cancer therapist Dr. Thomas Lodi suggests a long term green juice fast to his patients. The alkalizing and detoxifying properties of chlorophyll from green plants cannot be underestimated. 

Before I start a food war on this blog, I would like to state that we are all individuals with individual genetics, individual metabolism and individual food preferences. Some of us tolerate certain foods better than others. If you experience unexplained symptoms and are not sure whether your healthy diet makes you sick there are a few things you can do:

• have a food allergy test
• have a comprehensive food sensitivity test (secondary food allergies)
• test for anti-nutrient sensitivity (histamine, lectins, tannins, etc.)
• have a fructose intolerance test
  
• if you eat tree nuts, peanut butter or grains such as quinoa, test for aflatoxin sensitivity
• test for nutritional deficiencies and supplement accordingly 
• test for parasitic infestation and candida no matter whether you are a vegan, carnivore or omnivore
• have a leaky gut test
  
• help your immune system and implement food rotation allowing three to four days before you eat the same food again - if you had a carrot on Monday, wait till Wednesday or Thursday before you have a carrot again. If you detect some sensitivity to one or more foods, you might want to stop eating them for a longer period or remove them from your diet completely. Learn to make meals with only few ingredients if you want to determine what is upsetting your system, and, as mentioned above, test for secondary food allergies/sensitivities (ELISA test) if you observe symptoms like bloating, idigestion or unexplained weight gain
• do some research to find alternatives to the food that causes upset in your body - for instance, if oxalates are your problem, eat arugula, Romaine lettuce or even kale instead of spinach or Swiss chard
• a food diary may be very useful - write down what you eat during the day and record any symptoms you observe short term and long term; consult a certified nutritionist if the process seems too overwhelming to you
• completely avoid foods that cause problems.
  

I am aware that articles like this one may cause confusion and anxiety. This is not my intention. I simply wish to bring some clarity to all those who embraced a very healthy lifestyle but somehow feel that the food they are eating daily is not working to their advantage. 

As we strive for biological optimization of our bodies, trying to stay as healthy as possible and to look fabulous all the time, our food choices matter. However, when our healthy food is making us sick, we need to learn how to avoid it and why, and to look for less problematic alternatives. There is no such thing as one size fits all. We might be similar metabolic types but your body chemistry is unique to you. Keep this in mind.

In radiant health, passionately raw - Dominique

Dominique Allmon©2025

*Information in this article is for educational purposes only. it is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease. Always consult a certified healthcare practitioner before making any changes in your diet. 

AI generated images. Source here

How to Support Immune System During Cancer Therapy

For anybody cancer diagnosis comes as a shock. It is a shock to the patient. It is a shock to the patient's relatives. What follows the diagnosis cannot be described in words. No one can understand the fear unless he or she has been diagnosed. 

A cascade of questions follows the diagnosis. What went wrong? How did this happen? What caused it? Could I have done something differently? Is there anything I can do to slow the progress of the disease? What are my chances? How can I mitigate side effects? What can I eat? etc. etc. etc. 

Fear, guilt, uncertainty about the therapy and its outcome follow the patient like a shadow. 

Once the therapy has been chosen by the oncologist, the patient has to deal with horrifying side effects. Depending on the type of therapy or the drugs used, the patient experiences 

• weakened immune system
• high blood pressure
• anemia 
• loss of appetite 
• changes in taste
  
• indigestion
  
• constipation
  
• diarrhea
  
• nausea 
• vomiting
• increased urination 
• kidney dysfunction 
  
• muscle loss
  
• skin and nail changes
• hair loss
• fatigue
• confusion
  
• overall weakness
  

to name the most common and visible ones.

Patients who asked their oncologist for nutritional advice are often told that they can eat anything they want but might have to lose weight if they are obese. The more lucky ones are told to try the Mediterranean diet that is known for its overall health benefits.

Why is food even important? 

We all need nutrients, but people undergoing cancer therapy even more so. They need to build up strength and stamina, strengthen their immune system, and nourish their bodies that are being weakened by cancer and the cancer treatment drugs. Some foods might be better than others, so how do we choose the right ones?

Although the food industry does not want us to know, many of the food items that we consume daily contain unhealthy ingredients, some of them carcinogenic or cancer growth promoting. Some of the worst foods and substances for cancer patients or anyone who wants to stay healthy, for that matter, include:

• sugar and refined carbohydrates such as bread, cornflakes, cakes, cookies, pastry, donuts, ice cream, or pasta
  
• processed meats like hot dogs, corned beef, ham, bacon, or summer sausage
• fried, deep fried and charred foods 
• conventional dairy 
• alcohol. 

Anything processed and packaged is full of added sugar, high fructose syrup, or artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated fats, preserving agents, artificial coloring, and chemical flavors. Just check the list of ingredients. Some ingredients might not even be listed if they are present at an incidental level. Some are listed as "spices," "flavors," "natural" or "artificial flavoring" that can combine countless chemical ingredients and are usually considered to be the manufacturer's protected "secret" formulas. 

Understanding how fast food, junk food, and packaged foods of all kinds, are affecting our bodies, we all shall agree that in order to prevent chronic disease, heal from cancer, or stay healthy for as long as possible, we must eat food that is full of vital nutrients and free from disease- or inflammation-causing chemicals. 

Many nutritionists would suggest that patients eat more fruit and vegetable, preferably organic, add some fish and chicken, beans, whole grains, nuts, and spices to their meal plan, and drink plenty of purified water and organic green tea. But what if the therapy makes it impossible for the patient to even hold the food down? 

I am an advocate of raw food lifestyle that includes foods like raw fruits, vegetables and sprouted nuts that are rich in enzymes, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and various health promoting phytonutrients. I understand that roughage in raw foods might cause some discomfort in patients with compromised digestive tracts due to chemotherapy. However, turning a salad into a juice, healthy smoothie or a nutritious raw soup, would make the raw food more easily digestible and still deliver the nutrients needed for optimal health. Just juice or blend the ingredients in a blender, add a few drops of virgin olive oil, some chopped fresh herbs and organic spices, and voilà! Your raw soup is ready.

Some immune system modulating nutrients, like vitamin C and vitamin D for instance, must be supplemented. Supplements like Pectasol, graviola, curcumin, sulforaphane, medicinal mushrooms, laetrile, hydrogen, probiotics, alapha lipoic acid, or melatonin, are also often included in the protocols since they all support the patient's immune system. 

Fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut can help restore healthy gut microbiome and help with digestion and nutrient absorption.

Natural solutions like ginger tea made of sliced fresh ginger and purified water, might help the patient manage nausea without horrible side effects. 

Patients undergoing cancer therapy may experience severe dehydration. They must replace the lost fluids and electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and magnesium. These minerals are vital for maintaining key bodily functions. The best way to replenish the lost electrolytes naturally is to add a tiny pinch of pink Himalayan salt and some freshly pressed lemon juice into a glass of purified water. Fresh coconut water straight out of a fresh young coconut works as well. By all means avoid sports drinks since they are either loaded with sugar or are full of artificial sweeteners and flavors.

Dr. Lodi, whom I consider to be one of the most interesting personalities in the field of integrative oncology, has a full protocol for cancer patients that involves, among others, raw food, juicing and fasting. The patient must change the "terrain" in which cancer proliferates, and make his own body inhospitable to new cancer cells. 

Oncogenesis is a complex process, but patients can learn new strategies that promote healing and recovery. 

To support the immune system, healthy eating habits are vital for any patient undergoing cancer therapy, but in order to heal, the whole lifestyle must be changed. 

A health coach would suggest

• weight loss (where necessary)
• increased physical activity (wherever possible)
• emotional well being
• stress control
• restorative sleep 
• environment free of toxins and harmful chemicals
• life free of destructive relationship.

If you want to heal, surround yourself with people you can trust. Find a support group. Find a registered nutritionist who understands cancer. Stop watching the news on TV. Resolve your conflicts. De-clutter your house. Find a hobby that would enrich your mind and soul. 

All this might seem overwhelming at first but you can do it gradually, one item at a time. Ask for help. Hire a coach. Hire a personal trainer. Mobilize family members to do the tasks you are unable to do. Create environment in which you can heal.

Your disease is not a punishment. It developed over time in an environment that wasn't conducive to health. To get healthy, you have to revise your beliefs and change your habits. Qualified people can show you how to do this but no one can do it for you. You are the master of your own universe.

As Dr. Lodi says, you are not your diagnosis. You can activate your healing potential, but the healing will take time, so be patient. Trust in your body's ability to heal. You are magnificent. Persevere! Don't ever give up.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2023

This article was first published on my Heaven Can Wait blog

For healthy raw food recipes please visit my Passionately Raw! raw food blog.

For a life saving information please visit Dr. Lodi's website. 

* I am not affiliated with Dr. Lodi.

Information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease. You must consult your oncologist before including any new supplement or food into your daily routine. Some supplements and foods might interact with your medication or cause allergic reactions. Caution is advised.

9 Strategies to Improve Memory

Like many other bodily functions, memory declines as we age. Those first signs of slipping memory can be a little alarming, especially if you know the dreariness of that route. You may first see it in your 40s, sometimes even younger, with declining memory symptoms like slower facial recall, where you left your keys or what was the number you were supposed to call. How many times did you go to a supermarket and wondered what groceries were you supposed to buy? Wait! You forgot your grocery list at home.

These episodes are often dismissed as harmless and may simply be the result of increased stress, but while it’s normal to forget things on occasion, it’s a pattern to watch. 

Gerontologists, psychologists, longevity researchers, and the makers of natural memory supplements like the Brain Pill, believe it’s important to keep your brain active. Use it or lose it. This is how simple it actually is.

To stay mentally agile into old age you have to challenge your memory daily! Although not a muscle, your brain needs a workout just like the muscles of your body. And just like any other body organ, it also needs specific nutrition to support and retain its function. So, what can you do right now?

Here are nine strategies that can help boost your memory:

1. Use Your Memory Daily – Your brain needs a workout just like the rest of your body. Try crosswords, for example, or read a section of the newspaper you’d normally skip. You might also take a different route to work, for example, or learn another language, or how to play a musical instrument.
2. Socialize – You’re not an island, darling. Depression and stress can both lead to dramatic decline of memory, which is why you’ll want to socialize often – especially if you live alone. Be with others and take them up on their invitations. Join a club, take dancing lessons, start a poetry circle. Anything. Just get social. Life gets better when you do.
3. Organize Your Life – You lose points with a cluttered home because you’re more likely to misplace stuff and forget where you put it. Make lists and notes of appointments and things to do in a special notebook or your calendar, or create a large board where you write down or pin important appointments and things you need to do. Or, if you are more comfortable with the technology, download an app on your iPod and write down what needs to get done. Speak it out loud too, to reinforce it in your memory, and check-off your tasks when completed.
4. Stay Focused - This is very important! Try to stay focused on the task at hand and limit distractions. Multi-tasking is great, but when your memory is in trouble, one thing at a time is better. You’re more likely to recall information if you concentrate specifically on that one thing rather than all the many things you were trying to accomplish at the same time. In other words, focus on what you want to remember later and you will recall it faster when needed.
5. Get Enough Sleep  – Shut-eye helps your memory!  Most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep each night so make time for adequate rest. Go to bed earlier if you have to and work on your sleep hygiene. You will be surprised.  Your recall will improve with time and you will remember more stuff the next day.
6. Eat Healthy Food – Do you see any pattern here? Your brain likes healthy living. That extends to your diet, with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Opt for high quality protein, like fish and poultry. Drink plenty of water too, refrain from drugs and watch the alcohol intake. Consult a certified nutritionist for an optimal brain supporting nutrition plan and learn what foods support the memory function.
7. Exercise Daily – Exercise boosts blood flow throughout your body and to the brain. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, you need at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (like walking) each week, or 75 minutes of something with greater intensity, like jogging, although even a few 10 minute brisk walks per day will make a difference.
8. Watch Your Health – Chronic conditions can affect your memory, to say nothing about the rest of your health and well-being. Follow your doctor’s recommendations, be it for depression, your heart, kidneys, or anything else in your medical history. Review your medications often with your doctor as well since some medications can reduce your memory. As your fitness level improves you may need less and less medication. Lose weight if needed and have your blood tested for nutrient deficiencies. Take nutritional supplements to support healthy diet. 
9. Add Nutritional Supplements - Even people whose nutrition and diet are normally healthy, need to take nutritional supplements as they age. To function properly the brain needs Omega-3 fatty acids; B vitamins, especially folic acid, B6 and B12; antioxidants such as vitamins E and C, and the coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10); magnesium; herbal supplements such as Huperzine A, vinpocetine, ginseng, and ginko biloba; and nutraceuticals such as the virgin coconut oil and turmeric.  

If your memory is getting worse, get the Brain Pill!

We can’t end an article on how to improve your memory without mentioning natural memory supporting supplements like the Brain Pill. No matter how good and healthy your diet is, you need specific nutrients to support your aging brain. Nutritional supplements are like rocket fuel for your brain. The Brain Pill is a cognitive booster with clinically proven nootropics like cognizine, vinpocetine and ginkgo biloba, that are known to increase alertness and the blood flow in your brain.

Studies suggest that the ingredients in Brain Pill enhance memory and may even prevent memory loss. Better memory is linked to higher cognitive function. Your brain is more efficient with a sharp memory. Your intelligence improves and you retain the ability to stay independent well into old age. 

The Brain Pill will help you

• Boost Memory
• Increase Cognitive Skills
• Have Faster Recall of Facts
• Focus Better
• Enhance Brain Power
• Perform Under Pressure
• Have Better Problem-Solving Skills
• Eliminate Brain Fog and More

Try the Brain Pill (Affiliate link) to improve your memory and follow the memory-boosting tips we’ve discussed in this article. Your memory will love it and people will be surprised to see the new, sharp you.

Article based on information provided by the Brain Pill website (Affiliate link)



*This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

How to Winterize Your Skin

Like no other season winter puts an incredible strain on your skin. The cold temperatures outdoors and heated room indoors are more than even the healthiest skin can tolerate - the moisture levels drop and skin looks and feels dull and dehydrated. Thanks goodness, this problems can easily be alleviated with a little extra care, but you have to be consequent in your daily if you want to see some success.

Winter Skincare Protocol

No matter what your complexion, you may have to change your skincare products in order to adapt your skin to subzero temperatures. Also remember that skin can become sensitive during the winter months and you may not be able to tolerate your favorite products.

• Cleansing - use gentle, perfume-free cleansing products to remove make up and cleanse your skin. By all means, void harsh soaps and scented cleansers! When washing your face, use lukewarm water to wash off any product residue. Finish with a few splashes of cold water to allow blood circulation.
• Exfoliation - Once a week, use a gentle, unscented exfoliator to remove dry skin and even out your complexion. I love to use raw honey. I mix a teaspoon of honey with a little lukewarm water and massage the mixture into my skin and lips. I allow the honey to dry on my face and remove it gently with water after a few minutes, without rubbing my face. The enzymes in honey help exfoliate dead skin cells and leave my skin nice and smooth. Honey is a luxury that can be used on the entire body. Give it a try.
• Moisturizing - You may discover that your favorite moisturizer isn't enough to keep your skin hydrated during the winter. Use a nutrient-rich serum under your moisturizer to lock in moisture. Many women swear that there is nothing better than virgin coconut oil. It can be applied in the morning and at night, indoors and out. If you have never used coconut oil on your face, you may experience initial problems and breakouts as the skin adjusts itself to the fat content in coconut oil. Coconut oil can be applied on the entire body and can also be used to moisturize damaged and dehydrated hair. Give it a try.
• Extra Care - At least twice a week, apply rich, nourishing mask to your face. Choose certified organic products to minimize the risk of allergy or irritation. Leave the mask on your face for 15-20 minutes and relax. Follow the products instructions to remove it. Also, visit a beauty salon at least once a month to get a facial. A certified beautician may help you identify problems and take care of skin that is damaged by cold and wind. She or he can help you choose beauty products that are right for your skin during the cold season.

Our faces are directly exposed to the elements during the winter, but they are not the only ones that "suffer" during the winter. Remember to take good care of your entire body. Exfoliate and moisturize!

• Take extra care of your feet. Even if it does not look like that, the next summer is coming sooner than you think. Wear warm, comfortable shoes and apply foot cream to keep your feet moisturized. 
• Take care of your hands! Wear warm gloves and use nourishing hand cream. Also, keep the nail cuticles moisturized and your nails well groomed. 
• Do not forget your hair! Nourish your scalp and moisturize the hair follicles during the winter months. 
• Always protect your lips! Wear protective lip balm to prevent dryness and chapping.

To prevent dehydration, moisturize from inside out. Drink enough water to stay hydrated. Also, do not overheat your home. Use air humidifier to improve the quality of air you are breathing in.

Remember to nourish your skin from inside out. Chose foods rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids. You are what you eat and what you eat shows up in your complexion. Take nutritional supplements to support your body during the winter.

And last, but not least, exercise to get your blood circulation moving and spend some quality times outdoors if the weather permits.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2021

*This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Do You Actually Know What You Are Eating?

Recent food scandals, disclosures, health food obsession, and curiosity, have brought many horror stories to light. It seems than not a week goes by without a new shocking story. Food sold in supermarkets as natural and healthy often is neither natural nor healthy, and the law seems to protect the food industry but not the hapless consumer, unless, of course, you are an organic farmer and have the burden to prove that your organic heirloom carrot will not kill anybody.

Obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, food allergies, eating disorders, malnutrition, congenital disorders, to name only a few, are on the rise thanks to foods that have no true nutritional value, but pretend to be healthy, natural, and good for you. 

I am not even venturing here into the vast subject of organic, conventional, or GMO foods, but unless you grow, raise, forage, and produce your own food, you cannot always be sure what's on your plate. 

Inventiveness, progress, and greed are the culprits responsible for the miserable state of affairs. Everybody knows the "ersatz" foods like margarine and saccharine that were invented in times of extreme duress to provide people with substitutes for the most wanted daily staples like butter and sugar. Such fake foods might seem like a necessity during a time of war, but lose their attractiveness in time of peace and abundance, unless... Unless, of course, they are sold as good and even superior to the real stuff: butter will kill you, but margarine is so much better for you; sugar has calories, but saccharine, aspartame & Co are calorie free and even help you to stay skinny or lose weight you put on during holidays. And so on.

The success of science and the rise of chemical industry cannot be underestimated. Much money goes into research, but the profits are exorbitant. Many consumers are willing to accept a wide range of artificial flavors and coloring, often without questioning.

So why the fuss? Well, if it tastes like strawberry, it isn't necessarily a strawberry that you are tasting. A typical strawberry flavoring contains chemicals that have absolutely nothing to do with strawberries: 

• amyl acetate,
• amyl butyrate,
• amyl valerate,
• anethol,
• anisyl formate,
• benzyl acetate,
• benzyl isobutyrate,
• butyric acid,
• cinnamyl isobutyrate,
• cinnamyl valerate,
• cognac essential oil,
• diacetyl,
• dipropyl ketone,
• ethyl acetate,
• ethyl amyl ketone,
• ethyl butyrate,
• ethyl cinnamate,
• ethyl heptanoate,
• ethyl heptylate,
• ethyl lactate,
• ethyl methylphenylglycidate,
• ethyl nitrate,
• ethyl propionate,
• ethyl valerate,
• heliotropin,
• hydroxyphenyl-2-butanone (10 percent solution in alcohol),
• a-ionone,
• isobutyl anthranilate,
• isobutyl butyrate,
• lemon essential oil,
• maltol,
• 4-methylacetophenone,
• methyl anthranilate,
• methyl benzoate,
• methyl cinnamate,
• methyl heptine carbonate,
• methyl naphthyl ketone,
• methyl salicylate,
• mint essential oil,
• neroli essential oil,
• nerolin,
• neryl isobutyrate,
• orris butter,
• phenethyl alcohol,
• rose,
• rum ether,
• g-undecalactone,
• vanillin, and last, but not least,
• solvent. 

Is this all right with you? Wouldn't it be easier to simply use strawberries to flavor a cake or a milkshake, or any product for that matter? No, because strawberries are perishable and expensive, and not flavorful enough in tiny doses. Chemicals, on the other hand, can be standardized and measured out exactly to produce a constant flavor that sells well and lasts till the expiry date of a product, say, three or five years later. 

The same goes for the vanilla, caramel, or chocolate flavorings, and everything else that is manufactured and sold as food.

How about artificial crab meat so popular with sushi lovers? How about gel-injected shrimp from Asia? How about chicken that is only 51% meat? How about vegan sausage? How about sausage?! How about fake apple juice? How about fake honey? Scandal after scandal, disclosures revealed criminal practices. For some people such revelations come too late, others may still reconsider the way they eat and shop for food. 

Some of the food industry practices are criminal and must be prosecuted, but many of the secrets are perfectly legal. They are scandalous only because of the dubious ingredients like wood or human hair used to manufacture products sold as food. 

The food industry can really be proud of its achievements: food preservatives, flavor enhancers, emulsifiers, coloring, bleaches, and other additives that make a bunch of chemicals look and taste like food. That many people get sick or addicted to certain food products has to be proven first. The industry is very strong and has powerful lawyers. Much money goes into research. Much money goes into lobbying. Much money goes into advertisement. Some money probably goes into lawsuits and to hush the plaintiffs.

Ignorance kills, but how can you blame the overwhelmed consumer when the whole industry promotes unhealthy food products that are definitely not good for you, as something you must eat daily in order to look sexy, healthy, beautiful, and fit? 

Education is important, but habits die hard. For as long as a truly organic apple is more expensive than a fake chocolate, sugar loaded bar, the situation will remain unchanged.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon@2017

Also of interest: 5 Food Industry Secrets They Don’t Want You To Know by Kim Johnson or 6 Food Industry Tricks You Don’t Know About by Dr. Mercola. To read the articles please click here and here.

*This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The Amazing Health Benefits of Manda Koso

Manda Koso, also known as Man Koso, Dr. Xeniji, or M-K Europa, is a highly concentrated enzymatic supplement from Japan where it is considered to be "functional food". It is a sweet fermented brown paste made of more than 50 natural ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, sea vegetables, grains, honey, and herbs, that were exposed to a slow, elaborate fermentation process for 3-5 years. No water or chemical catalysts are used to speed the fermentation process. Fermentation occurs spontaneously at low temperatures and is based on the natural activity of lactobacillus, brown muscovado sugar from Okinawa, and brewer's yeast. 

The original Manda Koso was developed by Dr. Shingoro Matsuura who initially created it for pregnant women to nourish and support the growth and development of the fetus. Dr. Matsuura wished to utilize the energy and the nutrients of the plants for the benefits of humans. He wished to restore vitality and enhance health in elderly and healthy grow in the young. 

Fruit and vegetable

Dr. Matsuura holds a degree in breeding and fermentation from the Tokyo University of Agriculture and is a pioneer in his domain. He devoted more than 30 years of his life to the research of the biochemical mechanisms underlying fermentation processes and the development of a perfect broad spectrum catalyst. He established his fermentation plant in Innoshima, Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan. The facility produces about 70,000 145 gram jars of the product a month. A 145 gram jar is considered to last for four to six weeks.

Health Benefits of Manda Koso

• Improves digestion
• Improves absorption of nutrients
• Improves detoxification of the body
• Helps maintain optimal metabolism
• Helps regulate blood sugar
• Helps control levels of cholesterol in the blood
• Lowers high blood pressure
• Increases fertility
• Promotes healthy growth of fetus
• Delays aging
• Increases energy level
• Prevents growth of cancerous cells in the body

Fermentation is a process known to humans for more than 10,000 years, in which the original substance undergoes biochemical changes under the influence of yeasts or other microorganisms without the presence of oxygen. The fermentation process enhances the enzymatic activity and makes many substance bio-available to the human body. Fermented foods are part of the Japanese culture since ancient times. This process was refined and perfected over the ages. Using ancient knowledge and his modern innovations, Dr. Matsuura devised a 4-stage production process which mimics the processes of digestion and fermentation in the human body. The longer the process the more valuable and bio-available the product. The enzymatically processed plant matter contains nutrients that are easily absorbed by the cells of the body.

 Fermentation facility in Japan

Manda Koso comes in three grades:

• Manda Koso that was fermented for 39 months
• Manda Hi Koso that was fermented for more than 48 months
• Manda Koso Gold that was fermented for more than 60 months
• Manda Slim supports healthy weight loss and digestion

Manda Koso contains substantial amounts of Vitamin K, Iodine, and Potassium. Because of its high amino acid and enzyme content Manda Koso is very beneficial to health and overall well being. It has a very strong antioxidant activity and helps the body to balance the pH naturally. It supplies the body with energy and helps to activate the immune system. It is often used by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy as it has the capacity to detoxify the body. Manda Koso Gold is used in alternative cancer therapies all over the world. Dr. Matsuura makes no claims that his product cures cancer. What it most certainly does is the activation of body's own disease fighting mechanisms. An ongoing research shows that Manda Koso has the ability to shrink the breast cancer tumors in vitro. It decreases the beta-galactosidase activity and enhances apoptosis of the cancer cells. It also has the exceptional capacity to boost the activity of the NK cells that engage in battle against cancerous cells in the body. 

Manda Koso is safe and nutritious, but rather expensive, although the price is justified by the elaborate production process and the quality of ingredients used. In Japan it is also used in husbandry to improve the healthy growth of plants and animals.

By Dominique Allmon

Dominique Allmon©2014

*This information is for educational purpose only. It is not meant to diagnose or cure a disease.

Vitamin K - An Extraordinary Anti-Aging Nutrient

Learn how vitamin K strengthens bones, protects arteries, and prevents cancer and other degenerative diseases

Unlike many other nutrients, vitamin K did not receive much attention in the past. New research, however, indicates that this vitamin is one of the most amazing anti-aging nutrients available to us. An ongoing scientific research suggests that vitamin K may play a significant role in preventing certain cancers and the Alzheimer's disease.

What is vitamin K?

Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins that can be found in nature and made in the body. Phylloquinone, or vitamin K1, is the natural form of vitamin K that is found in plants such as dark green leafy vegetables, alfalfa, and kelp. Menaquinone, or vitamin K2, is the vitamin K produced by the bacteria in our intestines. Menadione, or vitamin K3, is a synthetic compound that has the chemical structure of the natural vitamin K. This form of vitamin K, however, is regarded as toxic because it generates free radicals.

Vitamin K was discovered in 1929 by a Danish researcher Henrik Dam. He noticed that chicken that were fed a fat-free diet were susceptible to hemorrhage. Moreover, blood taken from these birds coagulated very slowly. Intrigued by this observation, he investigated this strange phenomena and found out that a particular substance was necessary for the blood to coagulate. The chickens in his experiment lacked it because that substance was found only in the fatty foods. He named that substance "coagulation vitamin" using the German spelling, hence the name vitamin K. 

Vitamin K is easily destroyed by extreme heat, light, alkaline substances, strong acids, radiation, and oxidizing agents. Some research, however, shows that cooking does not significantly diminish vitamin K content in vegetables.

Vitamin K is absorbed from the upper small intestine with the help of bile salts and pancreatic juices and carried to the liver where it is utilized in the synthesis of prothrombin - a key blood clotting factor in the body. Vitamin K is stored in small doses within the body. The highest concentrations are found in the liver, the pancreas, and in the bones. Any excess of this vitamin is excreted. High intake of vitamin E and calcium interferes with the absorption of vitamin K.

Functions of vitamin K

• The most important and best studied function of vitamin K is it role in the blood clotting process. Vitamin K is required for the synthesis of the coagulating factors, mostly the blood-clotting protein prothrombin.
• Vitamin K protects the heart because it prevents the calcification of the aorta and the heart valves.
• Vitamin K is responsible for bone health. Low serum levels of vitamin K are normally associated with lower bone mineral density and indicate an increased risk of hip fracture. Supplementation with vitamin K may improve bone mass in postmenopausal women. Research shows that when vitamin K is taken together with vitamin D3, it can prevent osteoporosis.
• Vitamin K regulates calcium levels in the body. I helps keep calcium in the bones and out of the arteries. Scientists suggest that by regulating calcium, vitamin K may reverse hypertension and reduce the susceptibility to stroke.
• Research shows that vitamin K has the potential to reduce inflammation in the body by inhibiting interleukin-6, a substance that affects the immune system and is responsible for the inflammatory processes in the body.
• According to the latest research conducted in Japan, vitamin K may be involved in blood sugar control. Pancreas has very  high concentrations of vitamin K and researchers discovered that this vitamin has some effects on insulin and glucose concentrations in the body. Laboratory tests showed that insufficient levels of vitamin K in the body interfere with the clearance of glucose causing release of too much insulin. This discovery may be of great importance in diabetes prevention and treatment.
• Studies demonstrated that vitamin K is a powerful antioxidant. It fights free radicals in the liver and protects linoleic acid from oxidation. It may be useful in preventing liver cancer. Research conducted in Germany also shows that vitamin K may prevent prostate cancer.
• Vitamin K supports the brain and the nervous system. Scientists discovered that vitamin K is required for the synthesis of the fats called sphingolipids that are critical in the formation of the myelin sheath - an outer wrapping around the nerves. This discovery may be useful in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease.

Nutritional sources of vitamin K

Most dietary vitamin K come from vegetable especially from dark leafy greens such as kale, chard, and collards, and from cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. Blackstrap molasses, fermented soy products, and polyunsaturated oils also contain significant amounts of vitamin K. Vitamin K is also found in egg yolks, cow liver, fish liver, yogurt, and Swiss cheese.

Deficiency

Deficiency of vitamin K is very rare and is associated with impaired absorption rather than with inadequate diet. Deficiency occurs when the body cannot absorb this vitamin from the intestines or when the intestinal flora has been destroyed by prolonged treatment with antibiotics. People suffering from cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, and cholestasis may become deficient. Symptoms of vitamin K deficiency usually include tendency to bruises, nose bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, gum bleeding, and heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding. 

Recommended daily dose

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin K is 80 µg per day for adult men and 65 µg per day for adult women. No more than 50 µg per day may be administered to the newborn babies to prevent hemorrhage.

A healthy, balanced diet usually provides 75 - 150 µg of vitamin K in its natural, bio-available form.

Warning

Although there is no known toxicity associated with high doses of the naturally occurring vitamin K1, synthetic forms of this vitamin should be avoided. High intake of vitamin K is not recommended for individuals taking anticoagulant medications such as Warfarin. Their diet should not contain more than 120 µg of this vitamin.

By Dominique Allmon

*This information is for educational purpose only. It is not meant to diagnose or cure a disease.


Vitamin K - An Extraordinary Anti-Aging Nutrient by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.
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Health Benefits of Organic Germanium

The organic germanium compound can be regarded without exaggeration as an effective means of combating almost any disease. Nonetheless, for assuring its efficacy and the health of the body, the following two conditions have to be met. One is to keep a well balanced diet in order to maintain the acid alkali equilibrium of the body fluids. The other is to relieve stress to keep a stable mental state for maintaining the equilibrium of the autonomic nervous system. - Kazuhiko Asai, PhD

Germanium is a trace mineral that exhibits the properties of both, metals and non-metals. It was first discovered in a mine near Freiberg, Germany in 1885.

 Germanium atom

A German chemist, Clemens Alexander Winkler isolated a new element from the ore and named it germanium.  Germanium is a rather abundant element in the earth crust. It can be found in very high levels in the water of Lourdes, France, where people continue to travel to experience "miraculous" healing. Germanium rarely forms it's own deposits, but can be found in small quantities in the ores of lead, zinc and copper, for example. High concentrations were found in certain coal deposits. Most germanium for industrial use is obtained from zinc ores.

The germanium atom is structured in such a way that it accepts and transmits electrons, giving it a highly valued semiconductor capability. In its inorganic, metallic form, germanium has no therapeutic value whatsoever, but it is widely used in the electronics industry for transistors, fiber-optics, and other diverse applications. On the other hand, organic germanium effectively stimulates electrical impulses on a cellular level and plays an important role as an "oxygen catalyst" within the human body.

Germanium was found in fossilized plants as well as in some foods, certain mineral waters, and in healing plants and herbs. However, it took many decades of persistent research to identify and confirm the healing properties of this mineral.

Japanese researcher, Dr. Asai who dedicated more than thirty years to the investigation of germanium, found out that some plants and mineral waters that are well known for their therapeutic properties also contain relatively high concentrations of germanium. The list includes garlic, broccoli, celery, aloe vera, comfrey, chlorella algae, ginseng, watercress, pearl barley, and shiitake mushrooms. The content of germanium in these plants depends on the soil in which they were grown.

In 1967 Dr. Asai synthesized a new compound that received the name "organic germanium" or germanium-132 (bis-carboxyethyl germanium sesquioxide). Although this compound was created in the laboratory, it is called organic because it contains carbon atoms just like any other organic substance.

Unlike its non-organic counterpart which causes serious damage to kidneys, organic germanium is well known for its health benefits. 

The research shows that organic germanium

• stimulates immune system and activates body's own defense mechanisms
• normalizes many physiological imbalances including blood pressure and serum cholesterol
• fights free radicals
• helps detoxify the body 
• chelates heavy metals
• protects against radiation
• rejuvenates blood vessels 
• improves blood circulation
• improves vision
• relieves chronic pain and inflammation
• increases the flow of oxygen in the body
• improves skin conditions if applied topically as an ointment

Verified clinical research confirms both the safety and the efficacy of organic germanium.

Regular intake of organic germanium may alleviate many health concerns and slow the aging process. In Japan and in Russia organic germanium is used in alternative cancer therapies because of its ability to modify the body's biological response to tumors.

Most chronic diseases start quietly on a cellular level. Cellular injury affects the cell's ability to maintain a steady, normal, or adaptive homeostasis. Homeostasis is the ability to compensate for any changes caused by physical, emotional, or environmental stress. Homeostasis is the necessary condition for optimal health. Lack of sufficient oxygen supply to the cells is considered to be the primary cause of cellular injury. Cells die when they do not have sufficient oxygen supply. The only cells that thrive without cellular oxygen are the cancer cells.

"Cancer, above all other diseases, has countless secondary causes. But even for cancer, there is only one prime cause. Summarized in a few words, the prime cause of cancer is the replacement of the respiration of oxygen in normal body cells by the abnormal process of the cancer cell." - Otto Warburg

Since organic germanium is known to enhance the oxygen supply to the cells, it may be considered the supplement of choice in cancer prevention and in cancer therapy.

Researchers also confirmed that organic germanium increased production of the interferon in the body. Interferon is produced by the leukocytes in the presence of pathogens. This probably is the reason why germanium is so effective in fighting off viruses as well as the tumor cells. A study published in the Journal of Interferon Research* concluded that "Organic germanium restores the normal function of T-cells, B-lymphocytes, natural killer cell activity, and the numbers of antibody-forming cells. Organic germanium has unique physiological activities without any significant side effects."

Dosage

Suggested preventive daily dose of organic germanium is 100 mg. If needed the dose can be increased gradually to 1000mg per day. Dr. Asai administered a daily dose of 1000-2500 mg daily to seriously ill patients. Organic germanium is considered to be non-toxic and can be taken over a longer period of time. It is normally dispelled from the body via the digestive and the urinary tracts within twenty to thirty hours after ingestion.

It is important to remember, however, that organic germanium accelerates the detoxification processes and may cause Herxhaimer** reaction in sensitive individuals if taken in very high doses.

By Dominique Allmon

This information is for educational purpose only. It is not meant to diagnose or cure a disease. Please, consult a certified health care provider before commencing supplementation.

* Journal of Interferon Research Vol. 7, Issue 1. February 1987

**Herxheimer reaction or a healing crisis is an immune system reaction which occurs when the body is unable to quickly eliminate the large amount of toxins that are released during a detoxification program. The most common symptoms are headache, nausea, flue-like symptoms, and skin rush. These symptoms go away as soon as the daily dose is reduced and the body regains its detoxifying capacity.

Health Benefits of Organic Germanium by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Do We Really Need Nutritional Supplements?

There is no simple answer to this question. The common belief is that people who are healthy, exercise regularly, eat nutritious food, do not smoke or abuse alcohol, do not need any supplementation. It is believed that their daily nutritional needs are met and there is no need for additional supplementation. Another line of thought, however, advocates the need of supplementation independently of the lifestyle and nutritional preferences. Some of the writers and researches, especially in the field of gerontology and aging, as well as the specialists in ortho-molecular medicine* take nutritional supplementation one step further. They suggest that so called aggressive supplementation combined with healthy diet is the only way to deliver optimal amounts of nutrients. The doses of nutrients often exceed the generally accepted daily allowances and supplementation goes beyond the regular multivitamin and mineral formulas.

Are we malnourished?

In order to function optimally we need nutrients that constitute the building blocks of our bodies and sustain all the processes that keep us alive. A well balanced diet consisting of nutritious foods is the most important way to deliver all the nutrients that we require to stay healthy and fit. Unfortunately, many people do not receive the minimum dietary requirement with the foods they consume on daily basis. They become malnourished. Long-term nutritional deficiencies have adverse consequences on their health and may be the cause of serious chronic ailments.

There are many reasons why the food we consume daily may not provide us with all the nutrients we need to stay healthy and energetic. An average person does not receive the suggested RDA amount of nutrients from food. Nutritional value of fruit and vegetable depends on the soil on which they grow. Due to commercial farming practices the soil is often depleted of its mineral content. Harvest, transportation, and food processing may be responsible for some loss of nutrients as well. Very often the produce is harvested in an unripe state and transported over long distances. Such practices are responsible for the diminished nutrient content in our produce. Nutritional value of commercially raised animals, commercially produced eggs and dairy differs from the values that were measured only fifty years ago, but our nutritional needs may have increased over the years due to pollution and the stressful lifestyles we are leading.

What are nutritional supplements?

Nutritional supplements are preparations intended to deliver nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. They can come in form of tablets, capsules, powder, or in a liquid form and are to be ingested. They are meant to replenish what is missing in one's diet and are either considered to be foods or drugs depending on the regulations of a particular country. The dosage of nutrients vary from preparation to preparation and while some offer a minimum necessary for the overall well being, other offer mega-doses that exceed the daily RDA allowance. There are also supplements containing nutrients for which there is no established daily dose.

What is RDA?

RDA or Recommended Dietary Allowance is the amount of certain nutrients that a healthy individual should consume daily in order to maintain good health and decrease the risk of developing chronic disease. There are allowances for vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber. The individual need for nutrients may vary greatly depending on age, gender, personal disease history, and lifestyle factors such as veganism, medication, alcoholism, drug abuse, or smoking.

How to choose the right nutritional supplement?

Choosing a nutritional supplement may be very difficult unless we know what our needs and deficiencies are. Most of the commonly available and inexpensive nutritional supplements contain synthetically manufactured nutrients. They contain fillers and artificial coloring and may be full of allergens. The more expensive, state of the art nutritional supplements are made of extracts derived from plants and provide nutrients in higher concentrations. Nutrients that come together with their co-factors are more bio-available and effective. Such supplements are formulated for maximum absorption and use the pharmaceutical grade active nutritional ingredients. They do not contain allergens such as lactose, soy, yeast, or gluten, and are free of toxic contaminants.

The most commonly used caking agents, fillers, or flow agents such as magnesium stearate often interfere with the nutrient absorption making the low-dose supplements inefficient if not completely useless. Magnesium stearate, for instance, not only decreases absorption of nutrients, it may also be toxic and is suspected of suppressing the immune system. However, finding nutritional supplements that are free of magnesium stearate is not very easy as even the best ones on the market contain this agent which is made from hydrogenated cottonseed oil and commonly used as a flow agent to facilitate the manufacturing process.

If you decide to use a nutritional supplements, it is often best to consult a certified health care professional. If you have an existing medical condition or a medical history, it may be necessary to perform blood tests in order to find out your deficiencies or contra-indications. Take particular care when purchasing your supplement that you know and understand any added ingredient and its toxicity or allergenic potential. You do not want to take anything that may cause adverse reactions. Moreover, it is important to know whether your supplement interacts with any medication you are currently taking.

Conclusion

Supplements are very useful and necessary to alleviate any nutritional deficiencies, but they should never be taken in place of proper nutrition. Active lifestyle and healthy eating habits are absolutely necessary for optimal health. But unless we grow, harvest, and prepare our food ourselves, we must be aware that our nutritional needs may not be met on daily basis. High quality supplements may have be taken additionally to enhance our well being and deliver what is missing on our plates. The natural aging process is also responsible for some nutrient deficiencies. As we age, we may not be able to metabolize and absorb all the nutrients that we need. Supplementation can help us maintain the equilibrium and slow down the degenerative processes. As Dr. Linus Pauling postulated in 1960, "Optimum nutrition and correct nutritional supplementation is the medicine of tomorrow." Today this statement is more relevant than ever.

By Dominique Allmon ©2009

*Ortho-molecular medicine is a complementary therapy form that seeks to prevent or treat diseases with high doses of nutrients that are either taken as dietary supplements or in form of food. The phrase was coined by Dr. Linus Pauling

This information is for educational purpose only. It is not meant to diagnose or cure a disease.

Do We Really Need Nutritional Supplements? by Dominique Allmon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License