FALSE
Not all olive oils are created equal, even Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Sometimes other oils or substitutes are added as fillers which can be rancid as well. The test: put the bottle of olive oil into the refrigerator for 8 hours. If the oil gets solid, it’s good. If it doesn’t, it is mixed with something else. Tip: Look for Organic, Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive oil.

FALSE
A great many food products have MSG used as a flavor enhancer (it tastes like meat) and the manufacturer is not obligated to inform the consumer. MSG can cause seizures, neurological symptoms, blood pressure fluctuations, headaches, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, etc. Tip: It is hidden on the label as “Spices”, “Natural Spices”, and/or “Hydrolyzed”.

TRUE
Anti-microbial agents help the immune system fight off immune challenges such as bacteria and viruses. Tip: Look for grass-fed, organic butter and cold-pressed, organic coconut oil (available at Shoprite)

SALT
Salt is the most effective aid that stimulates digestion. Tip: Look for Sea Salt that has a grey or pink hue (Himalayan crystal or Celtic sea salt). If the salt is white, it has been bleached and processed, which is harmful to your health.

FALSE
Fruit juice has fructose in high concentration which reacts fast in the body and can cause worse health problems than sugar. Additionally, if not organic, the juice may contain pesticides and herbicides in high concentration. White refined sugar is also bad for you and its health issues are well documented. Tip: Drink filtered water with a touch of lemon or lime.

FALSE
Vegetables, in their raw state, are not better to eat than when cooked. Many vegetables are difficult to digest raw because they contain toxins that block thyroid function and interfere with mineral absorption in the digestive tract. Cooking neutralizes these anti-nutrients and makes for better overall nutrition. Tip: Add grass-fed, organic butter to the pan when cooking your vegetables.

TRUE
Milk products are much better used in their raw states. Pasteurization destroys the enzymes your body needs. Tip: For local raw milk distributors check online www.realmilk.com.

RAW DAIRY & BONE BROTHS
Raw Dairy & Bone Broths provide nutrients, like Calcium and Vitamin A & D. If Calcium and minerals are the bricks that the body is built out of, then Vitamin A and D are the cement that holds it all together.

FALSE
Most grains are very difficult to digest in their natural state. They serve to block minerals to their nutrients and can cause a number of health issues. In fact, the more grains are processed in our foods, the more dangerous they become. Grains can be labeled an anti-nutrient. Grains become very nutritious for us if they are first sprouted. Tip: Look for sprouted grain products like Ezekiel breads and cereals (without soy) available in Shoprite.

TRUE
Sucrolose on the label is another name for Splenda®. Splenda® is a form of bleach & other chemicals which are harmful to your body. Tip: Use unrefined, organic sugar if necessary, organic maple syrup and/or organic local honey.