PAM is not my friend, and she shouldn't be yours either!

I know that cooking can be a grueling task, and as cooks we try to take shortcuts whenever possible. One of the main ones being the use of commercial cooking sprays. I understand that taking the time to drizzle oil onto a surface and spread it evenly takes precious time, but I assure you that out of all the shortcuts one can take when cooking this should NOT be one of them.

Do you know exactly what is in that expensive little can of air besides cooking oil? Let's step back and take a good look at it: what does the can remind you of?

...Hairspray!

Okay okay. So the ingredients aren't the same, but they do involve some sort of chemical propellant to release the spray from the can. It is even listed on the can of cooking spray:

Even the "all natural" PAM contains propellant. (and corn..GMO much?)

What is propellant exactly?

*Propellants are vaporized into pressurized gas. They are used to make carbonated drinks, whipped cream and cooking-oil spray. The function of a propellant is to incorporate pressurized gas into the product. A propellant is a substance that produces gas under pressure. Liquid propellants, such as nitrous oxide, are used in food. Propellants in asthma sprays are known to be one of the causes of coughing and bronchospasms. Propellants are known to have carcinogenic properties. Excess consumption and usage is unhealthy.

EWW! I don't know about you, but I don't want pressurized gasses in my food. Upon further research, I discovered that the main use of propellants is for rocket and other similar fuels. Not something I want on my pancakes.

Yeah, yeah. The MSDA says it is safe! But Monsanto and the FDA say that GMO's are okay as well as rBST growth hormones, etc. I say, trust your instinct. Honestly, if it isn't USDA organic certified, I don't trust it. 

If you need some more reasons to chuck that can into the trash and never look back, I will give you my top 3:

1. Cooking sprays contain unhealthy additives.
Who intentionally adds nasty ingredients like soy lecithin, mono/diglycerides, dimethylpolysiloxane, dimethyl silicone, or artificial flavors to their food? Well.. If you are using PAM or something similar, that is EXACTLY what you are doing, especially when opting for artificially flavored varieties, like butter. 

2. Cooking sprays typically contain genetically modified organisms AKA- GMO's and non sustainable ingredients.
The vast majority of the ingredients contained in cooking spray are derived from genetically modified seeds, which have been altered so that growers can use more pesticides :( Genetically Modified foods tend to contain much higher levels of pesticides than conventional crops, therefore increasing the risks of these already dangerous chemicals.

3. Cooking sprays are bad for the environment.
Cooking sprays are unfriendly to the environment for several reasons. First, all of them contain unspecified propellants (I hate that certain ingredients don't have to be fully disclosed), usually nitrous oxide. Nitrous Oxide is a greenhouse gas, doesn't break down easily, and may impact our environment for decades. Secondly is the sheer amount of waste from using such products. I find it to be unnecessary. These cans are not as easy to recycle, and often deter users from doing so after finishing the product. Also, recycling is not a solid solution as it in itself creates a ton of pollution and uses a lot of energy.

"But what can I do about it.." you ask? Simple! Do what our ancestors did and take the time to wipe the vessel down by hand. This way, you can use whichever oil you prefer. If you are steadfast of using a spray, search online for a refillable one!

As a general rule for myself, I don't buy anything ConAgra. Even if it is organic, I don't feel as if they deserve my money. Not until they clean up their act!



*Source- InrFood.com

Dance your Butt off with Doonya Bollywood Dance DVD's

I don't know about you, but when it comes to getting enough exercise, I find it a bit hard. I do not like doing hard core workouts and I HATE getting sweaty. I do love yoga, riding bikes, hiking, kayaking, etc. I also love jogging, but it tends to leave my legs aching for days. (I am blessed with Fibromyalgia..)

I also really enjoy dancing. I just don't like doing it around anyone else.. Luckily for me I just discovered Doonya Bollywood Dance. They created this awesome series of dance DVD's that have been able to get me off my butt and sweating a bit more every day. 

I love this DVD series because it is easy to follow despite being so high energy. 

The beginner breakdown DVD breaks down moves that help you burn fat.

The Cardio Dance and Conditioning DVD contains a sequence of 11 routines.

 The Abs, Glutes and Cardio DVD provides three high intensity, express dance workouts for people with busy schedules!

Doonya is offering a set of DVD's to ONE lucky winner. Keep your eyes out for when the giveaway goes live!

Connect with Doonya

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Giveaway

TBA

Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255. 

 

Fitness Therapy For Everyday Living™ with Yoga Tune Up- Review and GIVEAWAY!

Yoga Tune Up® is a unique program created by Jill Miller. It is practiced all over the world at Yoga Studios, fitness facilities and retreat centers, taught by Jill and her certified YTU instructors. Using a distinctive set of exercises, poses and specialized techniques, Yoga Tune Up® playfully moves you into a body that looks great and lasts a lifetime. With Jill as your guide, our video and Therapy Ball Products will take you through a safe, effective workout with pain relief methods that leave you (regardless of age, experience or activity level) feeling better, stronger, happier, and more relaxed!

I was sent a pair of Yoga Tune Up® Therapy Balls along with the Massage Therapy Instructional DVD. I am always in need of a massage somewhere or other, but since I am not rich, I cannot always afford to go see a massage therapist. Even harder still is convincing my boyfriend to give me a massage. Luckily these Yoga Tune Up® Therapy Balls work wonders!

The Yoga Tune Up® Therapy Ball System provides targeted self-massage trigger point therapy by using specially designed high grip rubber balls and focused movement routines that help penetrate through layers of skin and muscle to massage deeply into your high tension areas. 

They help relieve:

• Stiff Neck & Headaches
• TMJ/Tight Jaw
• Frozen Shoulder
• Sciatica & Back Pain
• Tight Hips & Hamstrings
• IT Band Syndrome
• Plantar Fasciitis & Foot Pain
• … and much more…

I was thrilled to find out that they work for headache relief. I already knew of a few pressure points that relieve headaches, but it is almost impossible for me to to it on myself. This is the perfect product for that! They also work great on my feet, especially the arches. I love using them after a work out!

The two disc DVD program takes you through all of Jill's Therapy Ball routines. These are totally new routines using both the WALL and FLOOR as two very different foundational choices. Get guided instruction and detailed ball placement as you go through each routine. 11 different routines cover the Upper Back, Shoulders, Neck & Jaw, as well as your Low Back, Hips, Buttocks, and Feet. 

I seriously cannot believe how good these things make me feel! I am usually always sore, and I have noticed a great difference in the way my body feels after using the Yoga Tune Up Balls along with the DVD this past week.

 Enter to win your own set of Yoga Tune Up Balls and DVD!

Open to US residents 18 years of age and older. The giveaway will end on 6/25/14.The winner will be chosen randomly, and will be contacted by email. They will have 48 hours to contact me back to claim their prize.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

  Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.

Nordic Naturals Omega and Probiotic Review

At Nordic Naturals, they believe that omega oils are essential to life. By correcting the global omega-3 deficiency, they give each generation what they need to grow healthy and strong. Through science and innovation, Nordic Naturals is committed to delivering the world's safest, most effective omega oils. 

 Why I love Nordic Naturals

Nordic Naturals incorporates ethical and socially responsible practices with regard to environmental consciousness, corporate transparency, philanthropic partnerships, and education.

To me, that makes them awesome. 

I love when great companies, with amazing products have even better values.

When Nordic Naturals agreed to send me some products, they went above and beyond what I expected. They didn't send me some random items to try. Instead, they got to know my readers a bit, and sent me products for our demographic. (Women between 18-45). Although, everyone could benefit from the items I received! 

I was told that perhaps the three most important nutrients for women in this age range are omega-3s, probiotics and Vitamin D3. I could not agree more!

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

   This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 

 I have been enjoying taking the Nordic Probiotic. The pills are easy for me to swallow and do not get stuck in my throat as some other pills do. I love that I only have to take 2 a day. The capsules are vegetarian, making them perfect for people trying to stay away from meats etc. (Some companies make their capsules out of animal gelatin.. Gross!)

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

   This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 I am so happy to have discovered the Complete Omega-D3. The only pill I ever dread taking is fish oil. I hate the smell, I hate the taste, and I definitely hate the fishy burps I get after. To be honest, I have been neglecting taking my Omegas due to those reasons. When I received these capsules, I was stoked. They seem to be much better quality than what I am used to, so I willingly took them. I didn't experience any nasty burps afterwards! And with that alone, I am sold.

Why Take Omega?

Essential Fatty Acids are nutritional cornerstones of human health. Two major families of fats are comprised under this designation, omegas 3 and 6. They are deemed "essential" because we need them for proper health—much like certain vitamins and minerals—but cannot produce them on our own. We must therefore consume these fats through diet or supplementation.

Most people associate omega-3s with cardiovascular health, but their benefits go far beyond the heart. The two main omega-3s—eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—promote a healthy immune response that is behind the relief of many chronic conditions but that is too often inhibited by poor nutrition.* Extensive research has documented the health benefits of EPA and DHA, which include not only a healthy heart, but brain and cognitive function, joint mobility, eye health, pregnancy and lactation, healthy skin and hair, and a normally functioning immune response. For more info, visit here.*

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

   This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 Once again, for good measure:

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

   This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.   

 

GoVida! My New Standard of Snacks To-Go

Why I love goVida?

goVida freeze dried fruit snacks contain all the nutrients, vitamins, and flavors of their original fruit. Plus, their snacks stay true to fruit sizes. goVida packs all the benefits of fresh fruit into every crunchy bite. When you are snacking on the go, you know exactly what your favorite fruit is. No muss, no fuss.

I think someone sat on my package :( I swear, UPS and FedEx are getting worse and worse. It isn't even holiday season! Unfortunately, one of the pouches was missing. I sure hope someone enjoyed it!

The flavors that did arrive were:

Bananas and Raspberries

Strawberry and Dulce de Leche

Lychee

Apple covered in Maqui Berry

Grapes and Pineapple

(I was missing Dragon Fruit and Dulce de Leche)

My personal favorite was the Bananas and Raspberries. I love both of those fruits, so no wonder I fell in love with this combo. I had it right out of the bag, but I think it would be perfect on top of yogurt as well as cereal, oatmeal, granola, etc. So many ways to be eaten! I love foods like that.

You may have had bananas before. But you’ve never had them like this! Rich in antioxidants and special plant compounds, raspberries have a lot to brag about. Mix them with bananas and you’ll experience a perfect pairing.

No added sugars, additives or preservatives. Just the Fruit, period.

 Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.

 

You may have had raspberries before.
You may have had bananas before. But you’ve never had them like this! Rich in antioxidants and special plant compounds, raspberries have a lot to brag about. Mix them with bananas and you’ll experience a perfect pairing.

No added sugars, additives or preservatives. Just the Fruit, period

- See more at: http://www.govidafoods.com/scroller/our-products/#sthash.almkTvr0.dpuf

You may have had raspberries before.
You may have had bananas before. But you’ve never had them like this! Rich in antioxidants and special plant compounds, raspberries have a lot to brag about. Mix them with bananas and you’ll experience a perfect pairing.

No added sugars, additives or preservatives. Just the Fruit, period

- See more at: http://www.govidafoods.com/scroller/our-products/#sthash.almkTvr0.dpuf

You may have had raspberries before.
You may have had bananas before. But you’ve never had them like this! Rich in antioxidants and special plant compounds, raspberries have a lot to brag about. Mix them with bananas and you’ll experience a perfect pairing.

No added sugars, additives or preservatives. Just the Fruit, period

- See more at: http://www.govidafoods.com/scroller/our-products/#sthash.almkTvr0.dpuf

Maqui Berry

Maqui Berry

Maqui Berry

Sili Squeeze Review and GIVEAWAY! (Ends 6/21)

It's not a bottle, it's a squeeze.™

The Sili Squeeze™ is the original reusable squeeze pouch with a spill-proof spout. Made of durable silicone and 100% toxin-free materials, their food pouches are meant to last for years with your growing child, saving you money every time you fill your Sili Squeeze™. Perfect for all your homemade baby food and smoothie recipes, healthful purees, and those ready made favorites like yogurt and applesauce. Developed by a parent, for parents, the Sili Squeeze™ allows portable eating to be wholesome and nutritious. Order the spill-proof Sili Squeeze™ or the free-flowing Sili Squeeze with Eeeze™ today. It’s time to get Sili! 

What is the Sili Squeeze™ made of?

Their reusable squeeze pouch is eco-friendly and toxin-free, giving you one less thing to worry about when nourishing your child.

All materials are made of certified food-safe materials that are BPA-, Phthlate- and PVC- free.

They come in 3 different sizes (6oz, 4oz, and 2oz), and have several color options. Perfect for all of the youngsters in your family!

Find out which Sili Squeeze is right for your child/ren!

I am in love with this idea! 

The colors are so bright, the material is soft and interesting to touch.

It is easy to clean! (top rack dishwasher safe!)

It can be frozen.

(Perfect for keeping your kiddos lunches cool!)

It is easy to use, and better for the environment.

PLUS

Kids love it!!!

 \

Wanna try your own? Enter the giveaway below!

Open to US residents 18 years of age and older. The giveaway will end on 6/21/14.The winner will be chosen randomly, and will be contacted by email. They will have 48 hours to contact me back to claim their prize. Living the Paisley Life is not responsible for lost prizes or prizes that are not received.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

  Disclosure: I received the above item/s in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255. 

Mountain Meadow Herbs Review and Giveaway

About Mountain Meadow Herbs

In a perfect marriage of science and nature, the beneficial properties of more than 200 organically grown herbs, their roots, leaves and bark are coaxed into a pure extracting medium using less than 10% alcohol.

It all happens in a pristine Montana valley, with the majestic Rocky Mountains to the east and the shimmering Flathead lake due south. Here in a quiet meadow sits their state of the art GMP certified and FDA inspected facility, where extreme attention to detail brings you amazing, potent, liquid extracts you can use with confidence.

Founded in 2001 by a desperate mother turned scientist/ researcher; Mountain Meadow Herbs continues its legacy of healing, with genuine care and a lasting commitment to delivering results. The fresh, pure extracts of individual herbs are made daily; these are combined or compounded into more than 40 proprietary blends or formulas targeting specific organs and health concerns.

My Thoughts

I am really pleased with Mountain Meadow Herbs. Until discovering them, I have always had a hard time finding all of the herbal products I needed in one place. Normally, I would make several purchases from different retailers, but now I no longer have to. Mountain Meadow Herbs carries such a wide variety of high quality products I am sure they have something for everyone. 

I got to try the Mountain Meadow Herbs Blues Buster. It is an herbal combination of non-addictive ingredients designed to give you a new refreshing outlook. It is designed to meet the need for a natural non-addictive means to beat the blues without next day drowsiness. I personally love this natural mood lifter. I am all about using natural herbal remedies whenever possible. Mountain Meadow Herbs definitely makes that easy to accomplish without spending all of my money. If you are pregnant or nursing, try the Blues Buster 2!

I was also sent a bottle of Mountain Meadow Herbs Femme Defense. Femme Defense is the perfect daily, all-in-one herbal tonic for women who take maintaining vibrant health seriously! Rich in plant based calcium your body can actually use. With herbs to gently normalize hormone levels, plus 19 additional potent herbal extracts to boost your defenses against the most common health challenges faced today by women of all ages. I love that Mountain Meadow Herbs understands how delicate pregnancy and newborn babies are. They carry a similar product, Femme Defense 2 for women who are pregnant or nursing.

 Next, I tried the Natural Attention Aid. This potent blend of herbal extracts is designed to naturally support learning and mental function, very calming and may help maintain optimal blood and oxygen circulation to the brain. Natural Attention-Aid is especially helpful in supporting you or your child's ability to focus and concentrate as well as reducing aggression. Help your child fit into any environment without restlessness, impatience and anxiety. 

I mixed the Natural Attention Aid and Blues Buster together one particularly bad day and I felt an almost sudden wash of calmness and clarity wash over me. I am now hooked on these two items, as I tend to get stressed out quite a bit.

If you are ever in the market for some budget friendly, high quality tea, look no further than Mountain Meadow Herbs. You can get an entire pound for less than $15. 1lb of tea is so much bulk! Tea hardly seems to weigh anything. I was lucky enough to get to try out the Mountain Meadow Balancing Tea. This blend of herbs can be helpful in supporting normal hormonal balance when you need it most! Young and older women alike can benefit.  

Connect with Mountain Meadow Herbs

Website

Facebook

Twitter

Blog

Giveaway coming soon!

Disclosure: I received the above item in return for an honest, sincere review. I was not expected to leave a positive review, and would never post something I didn't feel fully confident in. No monetary compensation was provided. The above opinion is the sole opinion of me and my family, and may differ from your own. I am disclosing in accordance with FTC 16 CFR Part 255.