Radioactive Popeye - Spinach Irradiation.

Popeye is a cartoon character who gets special strength when he eat spinach. But his power might be in jeopardy now. The FDA has approved the irradiation of spinach and lettuce as an alternative to cleaning up bad farm practices...

Instead of dealing with the health problems caused by the disease-ridden factory-farmed food system, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced in mid-September it will allow the irradiation of lettuce and spinach.

Food irradiation is the controversial practice of bombarding food with high levels of x-rays (ionizing radiation) in order to destroy disease causing pathogens. Unfortunately, in the process of irradiation, other hazards arise, like the creation of toxic free radicals, vitamin and nutrient loss, and the formation of cancer causing chemicals.

What does this mean for you? At the grocery store, lettuce and spinach that has been irradiated will be labeled. You will still be able to buy safer lettuce and spinach there. But this labeling is not required at restaurants, schools, hospitals and nursing homes. So to be on the safe side don't eat at restaurants, etc. starting next month.

Note that food irradiation is prohibited on any product labeled as "organic." So if your restaurant uses organic food, it should be okay to eat their salads!

It is not too late to get this ruling overturned, as there is a 30-day commentary period. If you think that farm-factories should clean up their practices and not be allowed to irradiate food, let the FDA know by visiting this link.

Live Longer - Make Food Your Friend

In an ongoing look at societies where people are living healthier lives, longer, two elements emerge - attitudes about aging itself and attitudes about food.

Where people live a long time in good health the following belief is prevalent: One does not get "old," rather, one adds years to life. There is no such thing as "old age" rather long life is recognized as a true accomplishment on its own merit - additional years of survival is its own reward.

What belief would you rather carry in your heart... As time goes by you will grow weaker and sicker. Or... As time goes by, you will grow wiser and more efficient.

Those people whose attitude is one of gratitude towards food also live longer, stronger lives. In Western countries we make Food the Enemy and most fight to stay healthy. But those who see food, as a friend that will benefit their bodies, age well.

In societies where healthy longevity is enjoyed, food is eaten in a certain meditative state... A healthy, peaceful attitude at meals is something that turns out to be vital for good health, irregardless of what particular foods are in the diet.

One major source of disease in the United States is our attitude towards life and towards food. Here are two keys to a healthy longevity...

Live the years as a positive challenge that you win each day. And make the meals you take a blessing, not a burden. Give gratitude to the food you eat as you eat it. Take the time to appreciate your food and accept the nourishment it gives.

Love your life and love your food...