FITNESS / WELLNESS / RECIPES
1. It is healthy
Research continues to show that essential vitamins and minerals are higher in many organic foods. On average, organic food contains increased levels of many key nutrients which are essential for human health. Both US and UK Government statistics indicate that levels of trace elements and minerals in fruit and vegetables fell by up to 76% between 1949 and 1991.
2. No nasty additives
Organic food doesn't contain food additives which have been linked to health problems such a heart disease, asthma, osteoporosis, migraines, food allergies and hyperactivity. Among the additives banned by organic regulations are hydrogenated fats, aspartame and monosodium glutamate and all artificial colourings, flavourings and sweeteners
3. Avoids pesticides
Pesticides are routinely used in conventional farming. Residues of these pesticides are regularly found in a high percentage of fruit and vegetables, and in 2004 the European Commission stated that a risk to human health cannot be ruled out anymore.
4. No GM
Genetically modified organisms or crops are not allowed under organic standards.
5. Reliance on drugs removed
There is growing concern about the high use of antibiotics on farm animals and the possible risk to health. Organic standards prohibit the routine use of antibiotics.
6. No hidden costs
Compare this with the millions that tax payers fork out for removing chemicals from drinking water. This is mainly as a result of the pesticides and fertilizers used in conventional farming.
7. High standards
Organic food comes from trusted sources. All organic farms and food companies are inspected at least once a year to establish the compliance with the Irish and European regulations.
8. Care for animals
Animal welfare is a crucial and integral part of organic standards.
The benefits of the organic approach are acknowledged by animal welfare organisations such as Compassion in World Farming.
9. Good for wildlife
Research has shown that organic farming is better for wildlife, creates less pollution from sprays and produces less of the global warming gas carbon dioxide.
10. Tops for taste
Many people choose to consume organic food as they believe it tastes better.
:Summer is finally here and we are all dreaming and getting excited for our holidays! With flights and hotel booked, packing is the last thing stopping you from that great holiday. We all agree that we don't love packing, but if you follow our packing tips you 'll never have to worry.
1. Make a list
It may sounds a bit boring, but proof lists can be the gateway to a stress-free holiday. Separate your essentials from your desirables, and be realistic with your luggage limitations.
2. Name tags are there to help
Most suitcases come with name tags fitted as standard, so be sure to fill them in just in case you – or the airline – lose your luggage!
3. Observe restrictions on baggage
If your airline says: “23kg”, then they mean 23kg! Weigh your bags before you get to the airport and make sure you are within the restrictions, otherwise you’ll be forced to cough up extra cash at the airport.
4. Save bag space for all your holiday purchases
Whether it’s duty free goods or holiday mementos, it’s inevitable that you’ll be bringing more back home with you than when you left – so make sure you have room for it!
5. Skip the shoes
The biggest and most frustrating item of luggage. How many pairs of shoes you should take is very much dependent on how long your vacation might be, but we’d suggest that three pairs is a reasonable average for a 1-2 week getaway.
6. Keep on rolling…
This tip is certainly up for debate, but we think that rolling your clothes really is the only way to go. Not only will it reduce those pesky wrinkles and creases in your gear, it’ll save you some much needed suitcase space.
7. All valuables go in hand luggage
It’s rare that airlines lose luggage these days, but why take the risk? Stay safe and stow all your expensive luxuries – from your camera to your diamond engagement ring – in hand luggage.
8. Don’t forget the adapters
If you do need them, save on the crazy airport prices by buying them ahead of your trip.
9. Check the weather
Depending on where you’re going, weather forecasts are either your holiday’s best friend or biggest foe. Come rain or shine, meteorologists will always give you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. Check the day before you fly and pack accordingly.
10. Don’t leave home without the essentials
This penultimate tip is a big one as, without these necessities, you won’t be heading anywhere but home: check and check again that you have your monies, a valid passport and – for the sake of your holiday companions – a toothbrush and your favourite box of RawBites!
Enjoy your vacation!
There are many things we can do to support happiness, but often we forget on of the keys. Yes, some foods can give us a natural lift - here's how!
1. Eat plenty of fiber
Increase your energy level and prevent dips in mood by incorporating not processed whole foods in your diet. Fiber improves the body's blood-sugar response because it slows the rate at which glucose is released from food. The slower sugar gets absorbed, the less sugar highs and lows, and less mood swings. Rawbite bars are a great source of fiber.
2. Get plenty of B vitamins.
Two B vitamins, B12 and folate, have been found important in regulating mood. Those B Vitamins play a role in the creation of happy hormones such us serotonin and tryptophan and low levels of folate may be linked to depression as recent studies have identified. Lentils, Spinach, Black eyed peas, Asparagus, Brussels sprouts and Avocado are some of the best sources of folate.
3. Watch your tryptophan.
Tryptophan is one of the amino acids that our body need, to feel relaxed and happy and because it can't make it on its own, we need to get it from food. Lack of tryptophan increase the risk for depression and other mood disorders according to studies. High tryptophan foods include nuts, pumkin seeds, tofu, oats and beans. Rawbite Protein makes for a great mood boosting snack as it contains pumpkin seeds.
4. Eat your greens
Leafy green veggies such as kale, chard, and spinach are a nutritional powerhouse and some of the healthiest things you can put on your plate. They’re high in potassium, magnesium and calcium which are important to regulate stress hormones.
5. Don't forget the chocolate.
Most people's favourite mood booster of all is chocolate. It is not just the taste, but chemically it also it also contains a variety of compounds that boost your mood. Aside from the caffeine, chocolate contains serotonin (a happiness inducing hormone) and tryptophan.