GMO's Go Home?

GMO. It's not just a fancy nickname farmers use for their crops. It is a description of the TYPE of crop they are generating. A Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) is based on the principle of actually altering the genetic material of the organism's genome. Genetic material may be added, taken away, or simply rearranged to get the desired effect. This process has come into strong question by many groups because of the health potential this puts on the human species. Unnatural foods are being consumed at a rate never before seen in our history and the long-term effects are unknown. We look deeper into the issue to use logic to separate fact from fiction.

Recombinant DNA is when the genetic material is restructured, with new components added to the organisms original strand. What results is a transgenic organism, one that has a new genetic makeup, one that may behave differently than the original. If the transgenic organism is a plant, it may have a new color, or a resistance to harsh environmental conditions. Although this could help develop crops in areas where farming is difficult, debates have arisen on the safety of these for long term consumption. One area of concern is that of "horizontal gene transfer". This possibility is that the recombinant DNA from the plant is transferred into the organ tissue of the animal that is feeding on it. Studies have not yet shown this to be a major concern, however research is relatively new, and limited.

Most commonly seen is the "antibiotic resistance gene", which is used to increase resilience of crops to microorganisms. If the designed DNA of the plant were transferred to the bacteria feeding on it, there is the possibility that a "superbug", impervious to such antibiotics might result. One study from 2004 tested to see if the transgene from genetically modified soy would transfer to natural intestinal bacteria in the human body. Researchers concluded that gene transfer did not occur during the testing, although more research is likely to be looked upon as these foods become more prevalent in the world palate.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), does not require labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods, which has raised eyebrows, considering that the product has been changed. Without knowing long-term consequences, some argue people should have the right to know if their food has been altered genetically. Many countries in Europe have GMO bans on products. The United States has not issued regulations, although pressure is increasing on the subject.

Simple research can tell you which foods found in your local market are likely to be genetically engineered. If you decide to consume those foods, at least you are making an educated, calculated decision on your health. Besides, it's your body, you have the right to eat what you want. One thing that can be stated confidently: Until we have better research, and long-term findings, the safety of such foods are unknown and should at minimum be labeled for consumer safety and decision making.

Foods to Eat Organic

The debate continues with organic vs. conventional foods. What is not under debate are the pesticides used to mass produce conventional produce. In order to feed the ever growing population, crops need to be almost submerged in poisons that kill off all insects and bacteria so the growth rate and crop yield remains high. Some foods do not need as much of these chemicals as they are not targeted by our buggy little neighbors. Others, however, would not be seen on our store shelves in such quantities without the use of these toxic sprays. Here are a few foods that you should look to buy organic to minimize ingesting these dangerous pesticides.

APPLES: On average, more than 40 different pesticides have been found on apples. As a result, the pesticide residue is also found in apple sauce and apple juice. Although peeling the apple may reduce your risk of ingesting the pesticides, many of the best nutrients are in the skin. Your best option, purchase organic whenever possible and wash thoroughly. 

CELERY: Organic celery can be found in your local supermarket, such as Florida chain Publix. USDA testing has resulted in a find of more than 60 different pesticides. You can also diverge into broccoli or kale to reduce your toxic exposure if organic celery can't be on your menu. 

GRAPES: Are you a fan of grapes? We are too! We are NOT a fan of the over 30 pesticides found on most grapes. This delicious fruit can be found organic at a premium, but if you can afford it, it may just save you health concerns down the road. Wine anyone?....

POTATOES: A classic staple food. Inexpensive and a tasty compliment to most meals. Unfortunately it is the home to more than 35 pesticides according to USDA testing. Try your hand with sweet potatoes. This alternative is high in fiber, vitamin A and other micronutrients. You also have a much smaller chance of finding pesticide residue. 

We know that organic foods often times come at a price. As the nation becomes more unhealthy, the organic industry is capitalizing in the market with high prices. It is also because organic foods are more difficult to grow and require more attention because many mainstream pesticides are not used. When possible, look to organics for those foods with the highest presence of pesticides. This way you can minimize your exposure to these substances while keeping the most change in your pocket. 

Eat Your Food - RAW

Raw food is becoming more "popular" with the current health and fitness trends. Everyone is trying to eat healthier, leaning towards organic produce and more fruits and vegetables. Although popularity and "trendiness" aside, raw food is the natural way to eat since the beginning of time. We are made up of what we eat, and avoiding not only processed foods, but overcooked ones as well, will improve our health and quality of life. 

When we cook foods, we are adding a heat source that is increasing molecular activity that changes the composition of the nutrients in the product. Cooking in many ways kills the living properties in the food. These properties are enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are altered in a way that is not natural for them. Many foods lose their nutritional value because of these changes due to the heat that is applied during the cooking process. Processed foods have little to NO nutritional value at all due to the heat, filtering, and added chemicals that are part of the preparation and storage strategy. This is one of the reasons these products can sit on a shelf for months on end and still taste "fresh".

Being exposed to this knowledge is only a fraction of the battle. It is overwhelming and perhaps too much to ask to convert to eating a largely raw diet. A start is a start, and making those first moves to consume more of a raw based food source will benefit your body immediately. Fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds are portable and ready to go. Challenge yourself to a week on an all raw diet and see how your body responds and changes to the new influx of healthy food. Drink lots of water, get plenty of sleep, and take the first step in cleaning out your system from years of poisonous food!

5 Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are both delicious and nutritious. Of all the food you could be eating, bananas are an effective way to help your body get the elements it needs to reach your fitness goals. Some of these benefits you may have heard of, but others might shake up the negative thoughts you may have about this classic yellow peeled fruit.

1) Improving Vision - People that eat 3 servings of fruit per day according to a study in the Archives of Opthamology in 2004, are unlikely to develop macular degeneration. Not your average reason to eat bananas, but eyesight is very important or you may choose the wrong weight for your dumbbells. 

2) Digestion - This fruit protects the digestive tract by suppressing acids. This will improve symptoms from heartburn as well as defend against ulcers. The fiber content of bananas also contributes to regular bowel movements which reduces risk for diseases such as colon cancer. 

3) Energy and Mood - Bananas have high levels of potassium, which as an electrolyte, increases energy naturally in the body. Tryptophan, serotonin and norepinephrine are all found in bananas which naturally prevents depression and increases feelings of well-being. Vitamin B6 is also present which prevents against mood swings and irritability. So if you're feeling cranky, grab a banana!

4) Bone Strength - Fructooligosaccharides, a prebiotic element that promotes good bacteria in the digestive system can help with calcium absorption. As the fructooligosaccharides ferment in the digestive system, they increase calcium absorption which in turn leads to stronger, healthier bones. 

5) No Muss No Fuss - Bananas are amazingly portable, making them the ideal snack between meals. Perfect for a post-workout recovery food as well as a pre-workout boost, bananas are appropriate throughout the day. Especially for those that are on the move with busy schedules, bananas are an ideal choice to throw in a gym bag or the front seat of your car to keep you healthy and satisfied 24-7.

BPA Linked to Child Obesity and Diabetes

Obesity rates in children have gone through the roof in recent years. There are many factors causing this trend, but there is one specifically that is making its way into the spotlight. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a man-made carbon-based synthetic compound used commonly in plastics such as bottles, food and beverage cans, even sports equipment. It is linked to hormone issues as it can mimic estrogen which causes negative health effects in humans. Studies are widespread, some showing greater risk of health concerns, while others show that the levels of BPA in these consumer materials are not substantial enough to pose a risk. New research has emerged that leans towards avoiding such chemicals in your products all together.

Researchers found that byproducts of some of these chemicals are linked to an increased risk of insulin resistance among teens. BPA specificaly was linked to obesity in teenagers and young adults. With one in six children and teenagers obese in the United States, this raises great concern over the safety of these products. 

Certain precautions can be taken, for example, not washing plastic containers in the dishwasher, and throwing away containers that are scratched and/or damaged. These are signs that the material may be leeching into the food when stored inside the container. Studies are not definitive, likely because massive conglomerates that benefit from using such chemicals have such great stake in the market. Research is ongoing, and has led to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banning BPA from baby bottles, although there is currently no motion to increase the spread of the ban. There are no other regulations at this time for such chemicals in food products. Are you aware what your children are eating?

GMO Crops Increase Pesticide Usage

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) were introduced in the mid 1990's to the American food supply to combat bacteria and insects damaging crops. The genetic makeup of food was altered to resist fungus and other organisms from destroying the crop, like a self-made pesticide. One of the major issues that goes largely unknown, is the continued prevalence of herbicides and pesticides despite the growing usage of GMO foods.

According to a report from Charles Benbrook at the Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources at Washington State University, pesticide use has increased by approximately 40 million pounds since the initial introduction of GMOs. The claim that the need for pesticides would decrease with the integration of GMOs, is unfounded and apparently quite the contrary.

When a GMO crop is introduced to a region, there may be initial declines in damage to the crop. However, over time, insect populations have adapted resiliency to the toxins found in GMO crops. This being the case, a larger quantity of insecticides are required to overcome infestations. These older insecticides are higher risk and in larger quantities are endlessly more harmful than they used to be. This, as a result of a modified plant that was designed to be "an improvement" over the classic crop.

GMO products are supposed to be an assistance in the fight against insects and weeds that can damage crops on a large scale. Pesticides and herbicides have been prevalent in American agriculture for decades, although not at these levels. Health risks posed by GMO crops themselves are under debate currently, but pesticide exposure has been shown to affect the nervous system and even mimic hormones causing reproductive damage and even cancer. The adverse reaction to the increased use of such products in the American food market has yet to be seen, but initial evidence shows that more is not always better.

Your P90X and INSANITY program in 5 easy steps

It is not so simple as just showing up to your P90X & INSANITY fitness classes. Jumping in head first without preparation might seem like a great way to jump start your body, but there are certain things you need to account for in order to get the most out of your program. Here at IntensityX3, we make sure you tackle these components out of the gate to keep you engaged, motivated and on track to your ultimate fitness goals. The following are the essentials in getting your program off on the right foot.

#1 - Before and After Pictures - A very commonly over-looked act is the pictures taken BEFORE you begin training. People love their "after" pictures of course, but often feel embarrassed and self-conscious about taking a "before" picture. This is best done in the privacy of your own home, either a self-shot in the mirror or from a friend/partner. In our client handbook you will find details on how to take your pictures, and you can hold onto these, taking progress pictures every 30 days. The best feeling is looking back and seeing your progress which will motivate you to push harder and stronger to the finish line.

#2 - Measurements - Visual progress doesn't always come as quickly as we would hope. It usually takes a couple weeks for the body to adjust and begin to steamroll with physical changes. You will still be making progress, yet the naked eye can't always pick up on this progress easily. You are used to looking in the mirror on a daily basis and may not notice subtle changes your body is going through. Using the measurement technique is a great way to see these changes and keep you accountable to your training. Please visit the client handbook on our member page for details on how to take your measurements at the start of your P90X and INSANITY fitness program.

#3 - Nutrition Plan - The best way to attack any project is to have a plan. To set your fitness plan in motion you need to start where it counts. NUTRITION. This is the crutch most people have when it comes to seeing the results they desire. Your P90X and INSANITY fitness program is only as good as what you are eating to refuel your workouts. You literally ARE what you eat, and eating garbage will lead to lackluster training sessions and stagnant results. Refer to the P90X and INSANITY nutrition guides on your member page for the details on caloric intake, shopping selection and nutrient timing. These resources give you everything you need to attack this program and destroy unwanted body fat.

#4 - FIT TEST - If you have followed the above instructions, you are ready to gear up and get started. Our P90X and INSANITY fit test measures your starting performance before you even begin your training. What better way to see how you have improved than to see where you started? In your client handbook on the member page, you will see the fit test mapped out for you. If you begin this program after our class fit test, you have the ability to track your initial performance in your very own home. It is very important to measure these facets as this program is performance based and will vastly improve all areas of your fitness. One of the strongest motivators for continuing training is seeing those numbers increase. You will absolutely love your improvements when attending regular P90X and INSANITY fitness classes so take the time to do your fit test before day one.

#5 - ACCOUNTABILITY - IntensityX3 holds you accountable for your results. Will we help you? Absolutely! You are not in this battle alone. This is a group of people motivated to bring your goals to fruition. With our private members page, nutrition guides, educational articles and videos, you are exposed to exactly the type of camaraderie missing from run-of-the-mill fitness classes. The best way to seed results is to show up and gives 100%. Our infrastructure ensures that even when you aren't in class, you are receiving the support you need to reach your goals.