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Skinfood

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​Good nutrition is an important element in achieving good health, but how do the products we use in our homes and on our skin affect our health?  Skin is the largest organ in the body and is often exposed to beauty care products and cleaning products that can penetrate the skin.

If we wouldn't eat it, why would we allow our skin to absorb it.

We should be just as concerned with the products we use on our skin as we are with the foods we consume. Many chemicals approved for use in our creams, hair care, cosmetics, toothpastes and household cleaners can have devestating effects on our health. Ingredients known to cause side effects such as allergies, skin conditions, hormonal disruptions, ADD, birth defects, depression and cancer are used in many personal care and cleaning products. We know this is a problem and we need to take responsibility for our own health and choose products that don't harm us.

Chemical free skin care, body care and hair care products do exist. The creams, shampoos, deodorant and toothpaste are essentials we use on a daily basis and toxins in the products we choose can accumulate in our bodies. By choosing chemical free alternatives, you will reduce the amount of toxins you are exposed to. 
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​Healthy cleaning products are important too since we inhale the chemicals that are left behind after we clean our homes. Years ago, I switched to natural cleaners in an effort to avoid ammonia and chlorine in many cleaning products. I tried several "natural" cleaners but did not feel they "cleaned" the way I like.

​A few years ago, I discovered Benefect® and it has become my main all purpose cleaner ever since. It is not only all natural, good for the environment and my health but also promises to kill over 99.00% of bacteria including salmonella and HIV. Those were big claims that I soon found out were supported by Health Canada and as a result, Benefect is approved for use for many applications.


The magic ingredient is Thymol, a component of thyme oil. A gift from Nature that safely and effectively kills nasty germs.
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​Benefect® is the First & Only Botanical Disinfectant.

The patented technology is proven to kill over 99.99% of bacteria including Salmonella choleraesuis, 
Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa & Mycobacterium bovis,fungi including Trichophyton mentagrophytes (the Athlete's Foot fungus) & HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) on hard, non-porous surfaces. It effectively eliminates & controls odours produced by these microorganisms. I love that it is made from botanically pure plant extracts with pleasant aromatherapeutic vapours and I personally LOVE the scent it leaves behind.

​There are no synthetic fragrances, dyes, ammonia or chlorine, more reasons why I am raving about this product. 
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Benefect is suitable for disinfecting hard, non-porous surfaces in residential, commercial or medical applications, including health care & food preparation facilities: hospitals, nursing homes, medical, veterinary offices, health professional clinics, day cares, restaurants & bars, kitchens, food storage areas, fitness gyms, spas, schools, hotels, zoos & kennels. It is great for use on countertops, sinks, food preparation surfaces, toilet seats, showers, pet habitats, garbage cans, children's toys, highchairs, changing tables, massage and exam tables, prostheses & orthotics, sports equipment such as jock cups & helmets, boat surfaces & any other surface where bacteria or unpleasant odors are a concern. It has been approved for many uses but please note it has NOT been approved for use in hospital nurseries.
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Benefect® has a new product that was just released - Botanical Decon 30.
This is an innovative one-step disinfectant cleaner.  The benedits:
  • Cleans and Sanitizes in 30 seconds
  • Light Fragrance
  • No Health Warnings, No Rinsing Required

Typical disinfectants require 10 minutes contact time, which is difficult to achieve on vertical surfaces and materials.

New Decon 30 solves this problem by being specially formulated to kill gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria with a more realistic contact time of just 30 seconds. In addition to being bactericidal against Staphylococcus aureus (Staph), Salmonella enterica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa & Escherichia coli (E-coli), it is also virucidal against Rhinovirus (the common cold virus) and Influenza A including the Pandemic 2009 H1N1.


Fast and Effective Decontamination

From pipes bursting to dishwashers leaking, many water loss jobs happen in the kitchen. Being a Food Surface Contact Sanitizer means restorers can decontaminate sensitive kitchen surfaces without rinsing, wiping or leaving behind synthetic chemical residue.
Uses the same proprietary Botanical Active Ingredient Benefect is known for – Thymol present as a component of Thyme Oil. We formulate with whole essential plant oils, not synthesized copies of the chemicals found within the oils - we think the authentic way is the right way. Restoration professionals face many real-world situations where, according to Health Canada, typical hard surface disinfectants may not be appropriate. From semi-porous walls and wood framing to concrete and carpets, new Decon 30 effectively eliminates odors produced by odor-causing fungi, bacteria & other odor-causing organisms.

Decon 30 combines powerful botanical cleaning surfactants with the proven killing ability of Benefect's Active Ingredient to clean and disinfect in one easy step! This makes Decon 30 ideally suited for general decontamination of remediation sites, equipment and contents.

Ideal for decontamination, preventing cross-contamination, cleaning, disinfecting and deodorizing in water damage applications, mould, commercial or residential cleaning.
  • No synthetic chemicals
  • No label warnings or precautionary statements
  • No personal protective equipment required
  • No evacuation of building occupants required

Why you should make the switch to cleaner products 


​The David Suzuki Foundation and The National Cancer Institute provide a wealth of information on chemicals known to cause severe side effects. I encourage you to visit these websites davidsuzuki.org and www.cancer.gov to learn more about how exposure to certain chemicals can negatively impact the health of your family. Replacing products that contain these ingredients with all natural chemical free alternatives is a step in achieving good health. Listed below are the names of commonly used chemicals found in skin care products and a summary of the side effects caused by these chemicals. Information was obtained from the David Suzuki Foundation, a very credible and reliable source. We are very thankful and credit The David Suzuki Foundation and The National Cancer Institute for allowing us to share this valuable information with you.

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)
BHA and BHT are the comonly used preservatives found in food and also used as preservatives in moisturizers, lipsticks and other cosmetics.  BHA is classified as a possible human cancer causing agent and there is evidence that BHA disrupts hormone function and can cause allergic skin reactions. For the full report, please visit davidsuzuki.org

DEA (diethanolamine) and DEA compounds
Used in moisturizers and shampoos and products that create a creamy or foaming texture.  Closely related chemicals are MEA and TEA.  DEA and its compounds can cause mild to moderate skin and eye irritation.  Studies show that high exposure to these chemials can cause liver cancers and precancerous changes in the thyroid and skin.

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
Dibutyl phthalate is commonly used in nail products and as a fragrance ingredient.  It is the same ingredient used in polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC).   It is a suspected endocrine disrupter and toxic to reproduction on the basis that studies indicate it may impair fertility and cause harm to an unborn child.

Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde has been named a known human carcinogen. Other names for Formaldehyde include DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methenamine and quarternium-15.  These ingredients are used as preservatives and found in a variety of cosmetics, skin creams, nail and hair products as well as household cleaning products. The reason these ingredients are a concern is because "they slowly and continuously release small amounts of formaldehyde into the air". Your air. It is the formaldehyde in the air that causes adverse health effects. When formaldehyde is present in the air at levels exceeding 0.1 ppm, some individuals may experience adverse effects such as watery eyes; burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat; coughing; wheezing; nausea; skin and eye irritation at low doses. Some people are very sensitive to formaldehyde and have immediate reactions whereas others have no reaction to the same level of exposure. Because laboratory studies suggest that formaldehyde in cosmetics can also be absorbed through the skin, trigger allergies, and cause cancer over time these ingredients should be avoided. In researching harmful chemicals, I learned formaldehyde is not only in products we use on skin or clean our homes with but also in building products such as the hardwood in our homes. Formaldehyde may be hard to avoid, but we can do our best to minimize our exposure by choosing alternate products that do not contain these ingredients, avoid dry cleaning and opt for green cleaning and use air filters in our homes to reduce the gases in our air. I am including the following quote from the David Suzuki Foundation website because I feel it is important. "Formaldehyde may off-gas from cosmetics containing these ingredients and be inhaled (most of the cancer research on formaldehyde has focused on risks from inhalation). Off-gassing of formaldehyde from building products is already a concern for indoor air quality and Health Canada recommends the reduction or elimination of as many sources of formaldehyde as possible.

Parabens
Parabens are the most commonly used preservative in cosmetics and fragrences.  They are easily absorbed into the skin and there is evidence that parabens interfere with hormone function.  They can mimic estrogen and can also interfere with male reproductive functions.  It is ironic that methylparaben is an ingredient often used in anti-aging products, however, studies indicate that when methylparaben is used on the skin, it increases DNA damage and skin aging because it reacts with UVB rays.  The very product promising to reverse skin damage is causing it with preservatives.  Parabens are listed as ingredients under the following names: Methylparaben, butylparaben, propylparaben, isobutylparaben, ethylparaben, and any other chemical name ending in paraben.

Fragrance or Parfum
Approximately 3000 chemicals are used as fragrances and they are found in almost every personal care and household cleaning product. Most of these unlisted chemicals are irritants and trigger migranes, allergies and asthma. Products marketed as "fragrance-free" or "unscented" may contain fragrance along with chemicals that prevent that brain from perceiving any scent. Fragrances can also be found in laundry detergents and cleaning products. Most of the thousands of chemicals used in fragrances have not been tested for toxicity, in combination or alone. A survey revealed that perfume and/or colognes triggered attacks in nearly three out of four individuals with asthma and there is also evidence suggesting exposure to perfume can contribute to the development of asthma in children and can trigger symptoms in both adults and children. U.K. researchers have reported that "perfume" is the second most common cause of allergy in patients at dermatology clinics and in laboratory experiments, individual fragrance ingredients have been associated with cancer viii and neurotoxicity ix among other adverse health effects. Some fragrance ingredients are not perfuming agents themselves but enhance the performance of perfuming agents. For example, diethyl phthalate (prounced tha-late), or DEP, is widely used in cosmetic fragrances to make the scent linger. Phthalates are choice ingredients in cosmetics because they are cheap and versatile. However, the European Commission on Endocrine Disruption has listed DEP as a Category 1 priority substance, based on evidence that it interferes with hormone function. xi Phthalates have been linked to early puberty in girls, reduced sperm count in men, and reproductive defects in the developing male fetus (when the mother is exposed during pregnancy). xii Phthalate metabolites are also associated with obesity and insulin resistance in men. xiii As well, Health Canada notes evidence suggesting that exposure to phthalates may cause liver and kidney failure in young children when products containing phthalates are sucked or chewed for extended periods. xiv DEP is listed as a Priority and Toxic Pollutant under the U.S. Clean Water Act, based on evidence that it can be toxic to wildlife and the environment. xv A Laboratory analysis of top-selling colognes and perfumes identified an average of 14 chemicals per product not listed on the label, including multiple chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions or interfere with hormone function.

Sodium laureth sulfate 
Sodium Laureth Sulfate is sometimes also referred to as SLES. It is used in cosmetics as a detergent and also to make products bubble and foam. It is common in shampoos, shower gels and facial cleansers and also found in household cleaning products, like dish soap. Depending on how it is manufactured, sodium laureth sulfate may be contaminated with measurable amounts of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. i The International Agency for Research on Cancer ethylene oxide as a known human carcinogen and 1,4-dioxane as a possible human carcinogen. Ethylene oxide can also harm the nervous system ii and the California Environmental Protection Agency has classified it as a possible developmental toxicant based on evidence that it may interfere with human development. iii 1,4-dioxane is also persistent. In other words, it doesn't easily degrade and can remain in the environment long after it is rinsed down the shower drain. 1,4-dioxane can be removed from cosmetics during the manufacturing process by vacuum stripping, but there is no easy way for consumers to know whether products containing sodium laureth sulfate have undergone this process. iv The industry panel that reviews the safety of cosmetics ingredients notes that sodium laureth sulfate can irritate the skin and eyes (though approving of its use in cosmetics). 

Choose your personal products wisely ​
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​Healthy skin care options do exist.  There are many brands of toxic free shampoos, skin care, deodorants, and tooth paste that can be substituted for the commercial brands and in most cases, will perform better with healthier results.

There is much concern over the ill effects caused by traditional anti-perspirants and deodorants on market. The aluminum and other active ingredients have been linked to cancer and Alzheimer's disease.  Despite these known health risks, it is a personal care product we use every day and unfortunately, one that is hard to do without.  


There are several creams, lotions, shampoos and conditioners on the market that are wonderful clean alternatives to the commercial products out there.  However, just because a product is labeled natural, does not mean it is healthy.  Learn to read labels and differentiate between the truly healthy products and ones that just look natural.  We are here to help.

After much research and testing, we recommend only the finest and cleanest products to our customers.  We take the guesswork out of shopping and all the items we carry have been researched, tested and approved by us. We only carry what we feel to be the best of the best.  Here we list some of the products we are crazy about and products we think should be in every home.  We hope you find this useful. 

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​PROVINCE APOTHECARY


We have become a stocklist partner of Province Apothecary to bring you the cleanest organic skin care line we could find. The team at PA use natural ingredients to create truly holistic, supportive skincare products. Province Apothecary is a local clinic in the heart of west-end Toronto providing handmade organic skin care. They blend the power of natural, biodynamic and wildcrafted ingredients into pure products safe for all skins and we are thrilled to showcase their products here.​ 100% Made in Canada.
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​You can order Province Apothecary products from our website or pick up products at the clinic in the west-end of Toronto.  
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​Do you know what is in your Deodorant? 
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​Routine cream is an all natural deodorant made in Canada and contains only the purest of ingredients. It is made with Kaolin Clay, Baking Soda and essential oils and this all natural formula promises to neutralize underarm odor and absorbs wetness.
Trust me. It works !


There are 12 scents to choose from and the 50mL jar will last 3-4 months with regular use.  The ingredients of one of the scents are listed below.

100% Cruelty-Free and Vegan | Coconut Oil, Kaolin Clay, Baking Soda, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Marigold infused Olive Oil, Vitamin E, +/- Lavender Oil, Ylang Ylang Oil, Sweet Orange Oil, Patchouli Oil, Neem Oil, Nag Champa Oil, Cinnamon Oil, Vanilla Oil
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Why you should consider switching to holistic dental products 


Most commercial toothpastes contain toxic chemicals we DO NOT want in our bodies.  We searched for and FOUND bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution which is free of the following chemicals -

Sodium fluoride which is found in most commercial toothpaste, causes demineralization by removing the calcium from teeth which in the long term discolors them and makes them brittle.

Saccharin – People ingest this artificial sweetener without realizing the harm to their health. Saccharin was banned in the 70’s because it proved to cause severe health problems to rats in laboratories. However, because people liked the taste the ban was lifted.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – This is used in many products to make suds. In toothpaste it’s used as a thickening agent. It makes your mouth feel that something exciting is happening especially if menthol is added.

Glycerin – Glycerin is sweetener in toothpaste to make it smooth and less “chalky”. However, when your teeth are coated with glycerin, bacteria is captured. The problem with vegetable glycerin is not that it is toxic to swallow but it leaves a sticky layer behind which attracts more plaque.

bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution serum is made up of a potent combination of oils.

During the course of the day, plaque and bacteria accumulate in the mouth and under the gum line. These toxins start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed.
Pure essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their healing properties. They are naturally healing, and in an organic neem oil base, clean the mouth of harmful bacteria, promote circulation, penetrate the gums and provide a healthy alternative to the synthetic chemical products marketed today for dental hygiene.
The body is created to heal itself, when we subject ourselves to synthetic, toxic ingredients that the skin, gums and body absorb, we are only hurting ourselves.
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​Medicinal Ingredients:


​Cayenne extract stimulates the gums and has anti-bacterial and anti-septic properties.

Cardamom essential oil is one of the oldest spices known to man and because of it’s molecular structure, has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cinnamon bark essential oil stimulates circulation and has natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It has a high absorbance capacity and is high in eugenol and cineol, chemicals that give it natural anesthetic and antiseptic properties.   According to the studies done by Dr.’s Penoel and Franchomme, cinnamon bark oil is effective against 98% of all pathogenic bacteria. It also has potent antifungal, antibacterial properties and has a pleasant taste.

Clove bud essential oil has been used for centuries to relieve toothache and to freshen breath.   The chemical composition includes eugenol, esters and sesquiterpenes making it ideal for fighting microorganisms such as a bacteria, virus and fungus. . Historically it has been used to fight gum infectionsand to ease toothaches and sore throats.

Mastic oil is produced from a resin that has been used for oral health in ancient Greece and is instrumental in removing plaque from teeth. Today, it is also a common constituent of dental varnishes, and has antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties.

Organic Neem oil inhibits gum infection, inflammation, receding gums, tooth decay and mouth ulcers. It is often used in tooth preparations because of its ability to reduce calcium and plaque buildup. Neem oil alkalizes the mouth and is ideal for periodontal and tooth care.
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Sage essential oil has been used extensively in oral care because of its antimicrobial properties. It kills the bacteria that is responsible for dental disease.

Spearmint essential oil has been used since medieval times as the main substance in oral hygiene products and was used to heal sore gums and to whiten teeth throughout the centuries.

Peppermint essential oil has analgesic, anaesthetic, antiseptic and astringent properties and helps to reduce the build of of calcium on the teeth.

Non-Medicinal Ingredients: Fractionated Coconut Oil takes away some of the bitterness of neem
bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution is also available without peppermint
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​Brushing twice daily with bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution will help to:
  • prevent tooth cavities
  • prevent tartar and plaque build up
  • prevent gum inflammation
  • reduce gum bleeding
  • strengthen enamel
  • clean between teeth and fight bad breath
You are probably asking yourself, does bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution dental really have all these benefits.
Well, essential oils are very potent; they are so strong in fact that one drop can be equal to having 60+ cups of tea. The essential oils in bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution have been chosen because together, their therapeutic properties clean and detoxify the mouth area. Your gums absorb the oils so they reach to the root of the tooth, healing, increasing circulation, killing bad bacteria and more. Since there are no artificial chemicals, plaque and tarter don’t stick to the teeth. I know it’s hard to believe, but bodyFood Dental One Drop Solution is all you need INSTEAD OF TOOTHPASTE to have healthy gums and teeth, every day.
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