2konnectkares

B-ECO Fuel Tabs

After careful consideration and a serious amount of research 2Konnect has decided to move forward with B-ECO FUEL TABS as a staple program for the 2Konnect Community.

And… they will be using the Fuel Tabs program as one of the three programs for their 2KHeroes Scholarship program.

All those interested in jumping in before this massive growth, better jump now! This is an incredible program for everyone!

2Konnect is hitting this program with the full force of their entire Marketing Machine. They are also using a multi-pronged approach in building this program, they have introduced a FREE prospect program and marketing content for anyone interested in building their own business.

2KONNECT’s 10 FREE PROSPECT MARKETING PROGRAM

Rules for Operation:

  1. Start Here: PLEASE send an email to 2konnectservices@gmail.com and request 10 prospects.
  2. Please include your complete name and username as listed on B-EPIC
  3. This is not a set it and forget it program.
  4. 10 FREE prospects per week – work 2 per day for 5 days – easy!
  5. Each week contact them through a Text, Email or Call.
  6. www.2kheroes.com has examples of text, emails, and phone scripts.
  7. It takes 7 times seeing anything before there is a – YES!
  8. We recommend that you alternate email messages with text messages.
  9. You will receive 10 new prospects each week when you have entered in the week’s previous prospects and contact them using any of the marketing techniques.
  10. HOW TO GET MORE:  Please return 2Konnect’s original email which includes your original prospects and simply request a new set of 10 Prospects.
  11. Please send any opt out, fresh ideas and any suggestions along with your return email.
  12. You will receive a returned email with a fresh set of 10 new prospects.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

I got the Prospects…now what?

  1.  Open your B-Epic back office.
  2.  Locate the Organization tab at the top of the page.
  3. Hovering over or clicking the tab will open the “MY TREE” page.
  4. Find the first “OPEN SPOT” box and Click on it.
  5. Enter the prospects information as directed by the form.
    1. Enter a username and password for them – You make this up – this will be emailed to them; they can change it later is so desired.
    1. NOTE: Many are using first initial and last name, such as jsmith or bwhite.  A very simple password is 123321.
    1. NOTE: You do not need to have their complete address when entering their information.
  6. Click the GREEN BOX at the bottom labeled “CONTINUE TO REVIEW”
    1. NOTE: if a PINK box appears at the top which says: “USERNAME IS ALREADY TAKEN”, simply add their full name johnsmith or bettywhite.
    1. NOTE: Their email with default back to your email so make sure you change it back to the prospects email.
    1. NOTE: If a PINK box appears at the top which says: “THIS EMAIL IS ALREADY IN USE BY ANOTHER ACCOUNT”, they are already a member in B-EPIC, you simply go to the next name on your prospect list.
  7. A second window will appear “CONFIRM THE INFORMATION BELOW”
  8. Click the GREEN BOX at the bottom labeled “SPONSOR MEMBER NOW”
  9. A third window will appear “CONGRATULATIONS…”
  10. YOU DID IT – They now have a position in your organization, sponsored by you!
  11. Their position is RED, indicating INACTIVE…

NOW THEY FUN PART

  1. Changing the REDs to GREEN…
  2. Within a few minutes, make a personal contact with them using any of the marketing techniques included with the program or create your own personal messages.
  3. Make sure you continue contacting them until you have made 7 successful contacts.
    1. NOTE: It takes 7 times seeing anything before there is a YES
    1. NOTE: Spread your communications out over the next couple of weeks.
  4. The Website www.2kheroes.com under the B-ECO fuel tabs post has examples of text, emails, and phone scripts.
  5. The main goal in placing your new prospects into your organization is turning them to GREEN!

USING AN EMAIL PROGRAM

You can use your own personal email program such as Gmail or Yahoo mail, however since you are building a business, we recommend using an “EMAIL PROGRAM” specific for sales and marketing. 

There are many to choose from, we recommend using Mailchimp. www.mailchimp.com – It is free and can grow with you as your business grows.

It takes a few minutes to set up, however once set up it is a real time saver.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  1. You will be moving across your entire organization as you enter your prospects into those OPEN SPOTs.
  2. Make sure you alternate between your left and right legs.
  3. Make sure you complete each level before you move to the next level moving down in your organization.
  4. Pick up where you left off the next time you enter your prospects in your organization.
  5. Hurry, many people above will be filling in the OPEN SPOTs and you want those best spots for your people.
  6. You will receive 10 new prospects each week when you have entered in the week’s previous prospects and contacted them using your personal messages or any of the 2Konnect marketing techniques.

This is a marketing program: All prospects need to be contacted a minimum of 7 times to understand the program you put them in, they can go to their back office at any time and see their organization grow and decide when they want to join.

This is a gift…there are no guarantees or implied results because of these gifts.  If their information is already in the system – move on!

Footnote:  When you open the “New Distributor Sign Up” form it will in also show “New Distributor” which is the placement for your new prospect and which leg in your organization they are being placed in.  They will be sponsored by you when you login into your personal back office and enter them in as listed 1 through 11 above.

B-ECO VIDEOS

Promo video: https://youtu.be/9resvYCvriU

Explainer video: https://youtu.be/Y413MJkerdk

48 Hour Side Hustle: https://youtu.be/PivWWYSzFYc

Is your car on the pill: https://youtu.be/fCvsVSAJGT4

Product Page:  B-ECO FUEL TABS

It cost nothing to enter these prospects into your B-EPIC back office.

Several things will transpire as we enter all of our prospects into our B-EPIC back office:

  1. Our organization will grow a minimum of 10 people each week.
  2. Your organization will see their organization grow and then make the move to become active.
  3. As your organization grows, they will be entering in 10 per week and so on, and so on!
  4. Your commission check will be incredible!
  5. They will also be invited to join 2Konnect and enjoy the benefits of the Marketing Machine!

You do need to hurry and get them loaded, because you have a limited number of positions in your immediate downline and 2Konnect, your upline and others will be loading as fast as they possible can…it’s a race!

When loaded, the prospects will be notified that they are in your organization and then be encouraged to go to their pack office and enroll. They will be able to see their organization grow and then become excited over the possibility of earning commissions as their organization grows and expands.

This is a marketing program, they will need to be contacted many times to understand the program you put them in, but they can go to their back office and see their organization grow and decide when they want to join.

This is a gift…there are no guarantees or implied results because of these gifts. If their information is already in the system – move on!

HOW TO MARKET B-ECO FUEL TABS TO OUR PROSPECTS:

TEXT MESSAGES:

Text Message Number 1:

Is your car on the pill? If not, watch this video and get back to me. http://www.GetPaidToFillUp.com

Text Message Number 2:

We just sent you an email with your username and password – did you get it?

Text Message Number 3:

Want to save money at the pump, plus help the environment? Watch this video and get back with me: https://youtu.be/9resvYCvriU

Test Message Number 4:

Remember that you can get 10 FREE Prospects a week! Watch this video and get back with me: https://youtu.be/9resvYCvriU

REPONSE: Once they get back with you, send them your personalized marketing website: www.becoww.com/yourusername

EMAIL MESSAGES:

Email number 1:

Subject:  (First Name), I think I found what you’ve been looking for!!!

Message:

(First Name), sometime ago you responded that you were interested in a SIMPLE online home-based business.

1. Watch this three-minute video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVUY21PsAAM

2. You will receive an email with your username and password from help@bepic.com where you can see your downline growing with excited people such as yourself.

I have been in this industry for over (?) years and have never been given a gift such as this.

I hope you can appreciate it.

Sincerely,

www.becoww.com/yourusername

Email number 2:

Subject: Have you seen your organization?

Message:

(First Name), have you seen the email that gives you the information about how to get into your B-EPIC Fuel Tabs back office?

Sometimes we delete emails like this, or they end up in our spam folder. Well, this is an email that will change your life, better find it and get into your back office to see what all the excitement is all about.

If you can’t find it, don’t worry, there are other ways to see what’s going on, just respond to this email and I will help you out.

Sincerely,

www.becoww.com/yourusername

Email Number 3

Subject: Gas prices are soaring!

Message:

Want to save money at the pump, plus help the environment?

To increase fuel savings, improve vehicle performance, and lower maintenance costs, use B-ECO Fuel Tabs every time you fill up your vehicle.

Click this link to get your B-ECO Fuel Tabs: www.becoww.com/yourusername

Benefits May Include:

  • Save Money at the Gas Pump
  • Increase MPG (miles per gallon)
  • Reduce Emissions and Exhaust
  • Boost Power and Performance
  • Help Lower Maintenance Costs

Sincerely,

Click this link to see if they work for you www.becoww.com/yourusername

Email number 4:

Subject: Your account has been approved

Message:

Dear (First Name), don’t forget to check your back office to view your new balance. Remember that you can get 10 FREE Prospects anytime to add to your back office, simply log in today to get started.

A few days ago, you received an email with your username and password from B-EPIC and was instructed to login to see your downline grow, since then MANY others have taken advantage of the 10 FREE Prospects and added them to their organization.

Check out this video: https://youtu.be/9resvYCvriU

Get back with me and I can help you get your 10 FREE Prospects for your organization.

Sincerely,

www.becoww.com/yourusername

PHONE SCRIPTS:

Phone Script Number 1:

Hello my name is: __________

The reason for my call is to ask a couple of questions.

  1. Did you receive my email about the Fuel Tabs?
  2. Have you had a chance to go to your back office and see your downline?

Guide them to the email or their back office to see for themselves their organization and have them watch it over the next few days to see its growth.

Tell them that they can “sign up” at any time from their back office and get their 10 FREE prospects just like you are using.

Please get with your upline to get your position. www.becoww.com/theirusername

For those without an upline, here is your link to get started:  JOIN HERE, everyone must sign up at the $50 level, (which saves the $20 registration fee), and continue with the same level for auto ship.  We will need to increase to the $110 level as the need requires.

They, B-Epic, is creating a special website and marketing program for us to use for all our members, especially for our 2KHeroes.  www.becoww.com. This is a signup page only. 

Your back-office login site is www.bepic.com/yourusername

Your emails and communications from B-Epic will have the www.bepic.com/yourusername, which gives you access to your back office and additional products and services.  You can access your back office and all other products associated with B-Epic. Again, www.becoww.com/yourusername is for marketing and signing up only site. 

You simply use www.becoww.com/yourusername for signup and explanation for the Fuel Tabs.

Just because we will be using the Fuel Tabs exclusively for our 2KHeroes, does not mean we cannot order and use all the products associated with B-Epic.  Many of their products are outstanding and have many personal testimonies associated with their use.

By djgriffiths, ago

Download the App…

That’s right, we don’t need people to “signup”, we are simply asking others to “Download” the app.

If you have already downloaded the app, learn how to earn money by watching the video.

Watch this Video and see how easy it is to earn money:

Instant Recall Video
Is it a Scam?

There are multiple ways to Earn Points and Money in the Instant Recall App.

How it works: Instant Recall will sell the anonymous location data collected by the app, which creates cash flow.

You will be paid $1 for every 20 points earned each time your referral link is used to download the app or when the referred member uses their link to get others to download using their referral link. 

For example:

Level 1 and Level 2 referrals earn you 20 points for each new app download. 

Level 3 and Level 4 referrals earn you 10 points for each new app download.

These points pay you monthly.  You never lose points, unless the Instant Recall app is uninstalled.

How does the referral system earn points for you?

D O W N L O A D

(1) Once you Download the app or Login using Social Networks (Facebook, Google+ & Apple) a Unique Referral Code is created and you can begin registering new users to earn money.

(2) By clicking on the ‘POINTS’ tab (top right-hand corner of ‘HOME’), (it will bring up a new screen ‘MY REFERRALS’) you can now use the ‘INVITE NOW’ tab (lower right-hand side).  In addition, you can refer new users from the ‘SETTINGS’ tab (lower right-hand side of ‘HOME’), then click on ‘SHARE WITH FRIENDS’ tab to share your Referral Code using your phones messages or email program.  When someone Downloads the app using your referral link, you will be awarded points.

You can copy your Referral Code and share with everyone; your referral code can also be found by sending yourself an invite through the ‘INVITE NOW’.

GET STARTED

How do you receive your money?

You are paid through a digital wallet from opennode.com.  This OPENNODE digital wallet allows you to receive your payments in your local currency or Bitcoin.  You can download your funds into any bank account or onto a debit card.

Also. Instant Recall has been designed to keep your memories and reminders in one place.

Once the app is downloaded you simply click the ‘ADD INSTANT RECALL’ tab, and create a Memory by adding pictures, video or a Reminder.  Now you are all set to receive notifications when you are close to that location/Memory, through your phone’s notifications. 

Also, you can share your memories with others when they install Instant Recall. 

By djgriffiths, ago

We are testing a new product for our 2KHeroes

INSTANT RECALL

This is a free program for our 2KHeroes and everyone else wanting to get involved, it only requires a limited amount of training and education to get onboard.

All 2KHeroes who have been assigned to you or your organization will be required to sign up 10 people each month for the first 4 months.

Every 2KHero or 2Konnect member can invite anyone through the Instant Recall app OR when they add someone through 2K1-A-Day they will be automatically invited to join through our automated marketing system.

Click to WATCH THE VIDEOS to learn more.

We are only allowing a few to join us during our discovery phase, so if you are interested, you will need to act now, there are limited positions during the discovery phase. Use this link to download Instant Recall app: INSTANT RECALL

By djgriffiths, ago

10 Ways to Support a Healthy Circulatory System

It’s estimated that the average adult has around 100,000 miles of blood vessels traveling throughout the body. To put this in perspective, the circumference of the earth is just under 25,000 miles. This vast network of blood vessels works in unison with your heart and lungs. Collectively, they are the machinery of the circulatory system.

The circulatory system transports oxygen, nutrients, immune cells, and hormones to and from almost every cell in the body. Without proper care, an unhealthy circulatory system can strain your heart, increase blood pressure, or even result in life-threatening blood clots (thrombi).

Given the circulatory system’s vital role, taking steps to support its health is an important endeavor. Here are 10 ways to support the well-being of your circulatory system.

1. Get High-Quality Sleep

Believe it or not, quality sleep is one of the most important factors for a healthy circulatory system. Numerous studies indicate there is a clear relationship between heart disease and sleep quality (1). The less quality sleep you get, the more damage you could be causing to your heart (2).

Why does this happen? Sleep deprivation causes your blood pressure to spike (3). If you’re constantly sleep-deprived, it could lead to a chronically elevated blood pressure, which can strain your heart and damage the walls of your arteries (4). Use these tips to improve your sleep quality.

2. Eat Food-Based Vitamin K

Vitamin K is best known for its role in blood clotting, which is why it’s a vital part of the circulatory system. But that’s far from its only function.

It’s believed that vitamin K can help prevent the formation of calcified plaques on the walls of your arteries (5). This is important because when calcifications form, arteries can become stiff. Over time, this can result in increased blood pressure and cause the heart to enlarge (6).

Ideally you should get your vitamin K from food rather than supplements. That’s because vitamin K supplements are ineffective for improving cardiovascular or circulatory health (7). People with higher levels of food-based vitamin K intake tend to have better overall cardiovascular health (8).

To increase your vitamin K, add more greens such as kale, spinach, broccoli and parsley. If you find it hard to eat more greens, consider adding an organic green juice to your daily routine for a fast and easy way to boost your greens intake.

3. Develop a Consistent Exercise Routine

Developing a consistent exercise routine is essential for maintaining a healthy circulatory system. Exercise improves blood flow, eases blood pressure back to healthy levels, and controls blood sugar fluctuations (9, 10).

The good news is you don’t have to become a triathlon competitor to experience the circulatory benefits of exercise. Any movement that gets your blood pumping should do the trick.

Yoga has also been shown to impact several factors related to circulatory health. Research indicates that yoga reduces body weight, blood lipids, blood pressure, stress levels, and LDL cholesterol (11).

4. Eat More Antioxidants

Free radicals are harmful substances that form when you’re exposed to toxins such as cigarette smoke, vehicle exhaust, or heavy metals. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect your body from their damaging effects.

Without enough antioxidants in your diet, these free radicals can oxidize cholesterol and cause plaques to build up on the walls of your arteries (12).

As such, diets rich in antioxidants may result in a decreased blood pressure and risk of heart disease (13). To increase your antioxidant intake, eat a wide variety of organic fruits, veggies and berries. You can also add antioxidant-rich herbs to your meals.

5. Detoxify the Body

Exposure to heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (14). There’s also evidence that exposure to phthalates—chemicals found in personal care products and food packaging—are correlated with heart conditions (15).

There are many more toxins out there that can cause harm to your circulatory system. In fact, toxins are such a threat to the circulatory system that entire medical books are written on the topic (16).

While reducing exposure to toxins is essential, it’s critical to also detoxify the body. That’s where daily use of natural zeolite comes in. The benefits of natural zeolite include detoxing heavy metals and environmental pollutants.

6. Avoid Refined Vegetable Oils

Contrary to what the food industry wants you to believe, vegetable oils are neither safe nor healthy, especially those derived from canola, corn, and soy.

Most vegetable oils on the market are highly refined and deodorized. The result is an unstable oil that’s both rancid and high in omega-6 fats. Consuming these oils can cause a substantial amount of inflammation which can compromise the health of your circulatory system (17, 18).

Some researchers even suggest that vegetable oils are a driver of cardiovascular disease (19, 20). Instead of using vegetable oils, opt for unrefined organic coconut oil, grass-fed ghee, or organic extra-virgin cold-pressed olive oil.

7. Use Proteolytic Enzymes

Proteolytic enzymes are tiny molecules that help your body digest proteins. Studies suggest that proteolytic enzymes such as bromelain exert anti-inflammatory effects (21). It’s so effective that some athletes supplement it to support recovery. It’s one of the many benefits of proteolytic enzymes.

Reducing inflammation is essential to maintain healthy arteries which can keep your blood pressure under control. There’s also evidence that the proteolytic enzyme called nattokinase supports healthy blood pressure (22).

8. Get Enough Minerals to Support Healthy Blood Pressure

Several minerals are essential to maintain a healthy blood pressure (23). This includes potassium, magnesium, and calcium. All of which help your blood vessels relax when they’re supposed to.

It’s best to get these minerals through your diet from whole foods. Good sources of potassium include avocados, beans, potatoes, and watermelon. Top picks for magnesium include spinach, chard, and pumpkin seeds.

Also watch your intake of diuretics such as coffee or energy drinks. These can increase the loss of essential minerals.

9. Drink Plenty of Water

When you get dehydrated, your blood can become thick. This makes it much more difficult for your heart to pump blood throughout the body. When you’re hydrated, on the other hand, it has the opposite effect.

If you’re struggling to drink 8 glasses throughout the day, try these tips to increase your water intake. It’s also important to drink filtered water, since water can often contain toxins.

10. Try Contrast Hydrotherapy

Contrast hydrotherapy involves alternating between hot water and cold water exposure. Contrasting between hot and cold temperatures forces your blood vessels to dilate under the hot water and constrict with the cold water. Athletes often use this technique to assist in recovery as it’s believed to help boost circulation and the cardiovascular system (24).

The Bottom Line

Supporting a healthy circulatory system can have far reaching effects on your cardiovascular health, immune system and everyday energy levels. Considering that we rely on our circulatory system to transport vital oxygen and nutrients to every cell in the body, it’s important to give it extra care. These steps include getting enough sleep, being active, and nourishing your body with plant-based nutrition.
By djgriffiths, ago

How to Start an Online Coaching Business

In today’s world, when working from home is so prominent, one might consider what possibilities are out there for starting an online business. Online coaching is one of those options. In order to begin that process, a few determinations need to be met.

To start, it is important to understand the difference among coaching, counseling, consulting, and mentoring. Many times, they are all confused with one another. They are similar but each have a specific trait that sets them apart. Counseling involves established training, usually with a degree, and includes the goal of treating a person. A mentor is a trusted advisor, providing guidance based on their experience and done so as issues arise. Consultants are experts of a specific subject and provide knowledge about that subject. Coaching, on the other hand, is about partnership, specializing in the subject of coaching itself. The main differences in how each interact with others:

  • Coaching – People viewed as people.
  • Counseling – People viewed as a diagnosis.
  • Mentoring – People viewed as followers.
  • Consultant – People viewed as consumers of specific answers.

That’s not to say there is something wrong with counseling, mentoring, and consulting, because there is not. It is only to say there is a time and place for each, not to be confused with each other and not to be considered the same as coaching, both of which happens a lot.

What else can be said about coaching? Coaching provides questions. These questions can either draw out the needed direction from the client themselves or elicit the resources the coach can provide. It deals with people as they are, where they are in life. It is a thought-provoking process that inspires people to become better versions of themselves and, thus, achieve the result of coaching.

Coaching comes in many flavors and has a unique position in the world. There are nearly countless examples of the kinds of coaches out there and a few include health coach, business coach, life coach, leadership coach, financial coach, and spiritual coach. As well, there are very few industries that exist without oversight and regulation, and coaching is one of them. That is how many in the coaching business prefer to keep it (and something for you to consider, in this business). For them, this means freedom and the potential to develop their trade unhindered.

Of course, for the client, this also means there is risk associated with coaches who are not up to par. But, that certainly doesn’t seem to deter many. Life coaching, as one example, has reached a growth of $1 billion annually! Additionally, there is extraordinarily little overhead cost associated with starting an online coaching business. Have a computer? A phone? Done.

So, what are some steps to take if you want to dive into the world of online coaching? Here they are:

  • Consider joining the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Here, you can network with like-minded individuals and learn more about coaching and starting the business of coaching, even perhaps get a certificate. It’s a good place to start, especially if you are unfamiliar with the business of coaching.
  • You should determine who your clients will be. What part of the community will you most likely serve best as a coach? Then, establish a roadmap for how to get there. Will you provide packages and products to go with your coaching (advisable)? What about virtual conferences and one-on-one meetings? What level of income are you going to need? What kind of information can you put on your resume and/or portfolio that will represent a solid capability of coaching? What kind of experience do you have (not to be confused with mentoring)?
  • Build a web presence. If you are going to have an online coaching business, a place to host that business is paramount. Whether you build it yourself or hire someone to do it for you and/or provide copywriting/content is up to you and your skillset. This includes social media, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and even YouTube. Use your web presence to network for potential clients and even with other coaches who can teach you the ropes. Create podcasts for your website. Include articles so that clients can see what you know. Offer products of some kind that provide coaching from you.
  • As part of your web presence, but important enough to point out separately, create an online community. A forum or blog is the best bet, here. The idea is potential clients can view material based on your coaching with the ability to interact with you/contribute to what you are talking about/asking about. This generates the possibility of more understanding on their part and even yours (you can learn some things as well), and it creates the additional possibility of future clients.
  • Consider a certification. As stated earlier, the ICF can guide you in that endeavor. Why get any kind of certification in an industry that is void of regulation and oversight? The simple answer is that no one knows how long that will last. As with anything that develops a large impact on society, it’s only a matter of time before coaching meets bureaucrats salivating at the fresh meat of an open industry. Get a certificate now and that can put you ahead of any changes that might come later.

Article Author:

Business Training Media is a leading provider of business training courses for employees, managers, supervisors and professionals.

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By djgriffiths, ago

10 Common Toxins in Cosmetics

Formulated to highlight features, accentuate the eyes, and lengthen lashes, cosmetics are designed to emphasize natural beauty. However, much of the makeup industry hides an ugly truth: those beauty products can be laced with toxins that undermine health.

The skin is the body’s largest organ, and while it acts as a physical barrier to keep us safe, it’s not an impenetrable shield. When you apply sunscreen, lotions, and makeup, ingredients readily pass through the skin and into the bloodstream. It’s an especially challenging issue since many women wear makeup and apply these types of products every day.

To help you navigate the unsafe world of cosmetics, check out the list of 10 of the most dangerous toxins commonly found in makeup. At the end, you’ll also see how to check your favorite products to make sure they’re safe.

1. Heavy Metals

Heavy metals can cause substantial damage and accumulate in your tissues. At higher doses, heavy metals can cause brain damage, cancer, and organ failure (1). At lower doses, they can contribute to inflammation, fatigue, and even cause your skin to age more quickly.

Many makeup products (including eye shadow, lipstick, and lip gloss) contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, nickel, mercury, and chromium. A study conducted by Safe Cosmetics, for example, found that over 60% of lipsticks contain the toxic heavy metal lead (2).

2. Phthalates (Fragrance)

While a cosmetic company may label its ingredients, phthalates are often hiding under the vague description of “fragrance.” Found in perfume, lotions, or any product with added fragrance, phthalates are a type of hormone-disrupting chemical.

Numerous studies have linked phthalates to birth defects, breast cancer, a decreased IQ, obesity, autism, and neurological issues  (3, 4, 5). Check labels and avoid applying perfume to skin.

3. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

Many beauty products contain formaldehyde-based preservatives which break down over time, releasing formaldehyde—a volatile organic compound (VOC) that’s known to cause cancer and asthma (6, 7). If your cosmetics have a label, keep an eye out for chemicals such as DMDM hydantoin, bromopol, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, quaternium-15, and glyoxal. They’re most commonly in mascara and nail polish.

4. Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)

Polyethylene glycols create the creamy texture we expect in many cosmetics as they are used as thickeners and softeners (8). For this reason, they are commonly found in hair mousse and lotions. These petroleum-based compounds may be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane which can harm the nervous system and interfere with human development (9).

5. BHT & BHA

While these two chemical preservatives are banned in the European Union, they are still commonly used in the US, found in cosmetics including eyeliner, eyeshadows and other makeup (10). Numerous studies have found that these two chemicals are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, organ damage, and reproductive harm (11, 12). Much like heavy metals, they can accumulate in the body, leading to greater harm over time.

6. Siloxanes

Siloxanes are chemicals often used in cosmetics to soften, smooth, and moisten. For this reason, they are often found in deodorant and foundation. They are also used in hair products to help them dry more quickly.

Depending on how they’re modified in the lab, there’s evidence that siloxanes can disrupt your hormones, cause reproductive harm, damage the immune system, and reduce fertility (13). If there’s an ingredients label, look out for anything that ends in siloxane or methicone.

7. Octinoxate or Oxybenzone

Octinoxate and Oxybenzone are chemicals commonly used to filter UVB light from the sun and are usually found in sunscreens. This chemical is rapidly absorbed through the skin. Evidence suggests that exposure can disrupt your hormones and cripple the function of your thyroid (14).

8. P-Phenylenediamine (PPD)

This chemical can cause allergic reactions on the skin and damage the DNA of your cells. Over time, cellular DNA damage can cause cells to mutate into cancer cells (15). Since p-phenylenediamine is a common hair dye ingredient, scientists have observed a correlation between hair dye and multiple forms of cancer like ovarian, breast, and bladder (16, 17, 18).

9. Carbon Black

This pigment is an ingredient used in many eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara products. Carbon black is made from the partial combustion of various carbon-containing materials. It gives eyeliner its flat black coloring. Exposure to this chemical is linked to cancer and organ toxicity (19). Pigments are also commonly contaminated with heavy metals such as lead.

10. Benzophenone

Commonly used to protect cosmetics from deteriorating due to sun exposure, this chemical is linked to hormone disruption, organ toxicity, and reproductive harm (20, 21).

Protecting Your Health

Given the vast quantity of ingredients used and huge range of cosmetic products on the market, it’s impossible to eliminate your exposure to every toxin. The good news is that awareness has grown about the issue of toxins in cosmetics, and there are resources you can use to reduce your exposure.

You can check the clean rating of your personal cosmetic products (or individual ingredients) on the EWG Skin Deep database. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics is another valuable resource to avoid toxins in cosmetics.

Avoiding toxins is vital. But often, it’s not enough. If you’re like most people, you have already been using cosmetics for much of your life. Since many of the toxins found in cosmetics bioaccumulate, it’s important to detoxify or remove them from your body.

To support your body’s detoxification process, use natural mineral zeolite that has been cleansed and nanosized for cellular detox. A rare negatively-charged mineral, the zeolite Clinoptilolite binds to positively-charged toxins like a magnet, so toxins can be safely and gently flushed out of the body.

By choosing safer cosmetics, and detoxing the body, you may experience improved whole-body health
By djgriffiths, ago

7 Ways to Stay Safe from Coronavirus

To date, more than 37 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed worldwide, with over 1 million deaths, and tens of thousands of new coronavirus cases are emerging on a daily basis. Already more than 7.5 million cases have been confirmed within the United States with over 214,000 deaths. And health officials fear there is no end in sight (1).

On Monday, March 2, former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director Tom Frieden declared, “Never before has a new pathogen emerged and caused a global spread like this. It has the ability to cause enormous social and economic disruption.”

It doesn’t help that the new coronavirus was likely circulating undetected in the United States, possibly for weeks in February. Or that initial test kits from the CDC were flawed and limited in number, so cases may have slipped through the net (2).

On Tuesday, March 3, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the mortality rate of the virus was much higher than previous estimates, an alarming 3.4% (3). Finally, on Wednesday, March 11 the WHO declared the coronavirus a global pandemic.

While many cases (an estimated 80%) are mild, the number of severe and critical cases is very worrisome. Research shows people over 60 and those with underlying health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes are at the greatest risk.

Public health officials in the U.S. moved to try and mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, with school closures, quarantines, and travel disruptions. Already some store shelves are empty of supplies. On Friday, March 13, President Trump declared a national emergency to free up resources and funds to fight the rapid spread of cases and the economic impact. And now, the United States is considered the epicenter of the pandemic with the most confirmed cases in the world.

Yes, this is a new virus, and there are a lot of unknowns for the days and months ahead. But there are also some tried and true strategies that can help you be prepared and stay safe. Here are 7 top virus protection tips.

1. Wash Your Hands

Like other viruses, many coronavirus infections may happen via what your hands came in contact with. Viral particles attach and stick to surfaces that we unconsciously touch – a door handle, a receipt, a coffee cup. And then we touch our faces, introducing the virus to our eyes, nose or mouth.

That’s why it’s vital to wash your hands often, with soap and water. Every time before you eat or drink, and really scrub them for about 20 seconds. And always before you touch your face. This simple step can greatly reduce your chances of viral transmission.

2. Get Enough Sleep

What does sleep have to do with staying safe from viruses? It’s simple… without enough restful sleep your immune system is depressed and more vulnerable to viruses, and research shows that includes coronaviruses.

A study published in the prestigious JAMA Internal Medicine found that people who had less than 7 hours of sleep were 3 times more likely to develop a cold—a type of coronavirus—than those who had 8+ hours a night (4).

If you find it difficult to get enough sleep, consider CBD Oil before bed, and try these strategies to get the best sleep of your life.

3. Avoid Sick People (Do Social Distancing)

If you don’t come in contact with people who have signs of respiratory illnesses, your chances of catching one are greatly reduced. That means not shaking hands or getting close to someone who is coughing or sneezing.

Right now, most people with the sniffles are unlikely to have the coronavirus, but it appears that people who do have COVID-19 can infect others even before they show symptoms. That means avoiding places with lots of people, and maintaining a safe distance when you are talking with someone. Social distancing is the key.

4. Manage Stress Levels

Life can be stressful enough on any given day. Add a new coronavirus into the mix and it’s hard not to worry that the world as we know it could end.

But using stress management techniques that work is vital. That’s because stress can weaken your immune system. In fact, researchers discovered that stress lowered all aspects of immunity, making it more likely you’ll get sick (5).

One of the best ways to keep calm is to include CBD-rich hemp oil in your day since cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to be effective against stress (6).

5. Eat More Fruits & Veggies

Most emergency supplies consist of canned tuna and processed soup. Sure, it’ll give you calories, but not much else. Now’s the time to invest a little extra in good quality nutrition.

Organic berries (stock up on frozen), and organic green veggies are nature’s multivitamins. They come complete with the right blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your body needs to stay healthy.

Short on time and space? Superfood powders are a shortcut to boost intake due to the high number of veggies and low cost per serving. And research shows drinking an organic green juice every day has huge health benefits.

Adding a few extra canisters of Super Green Juice or Organic Super Protein to your supplies can give you dozens of nutrient-dense smoothies without taking up much shelf space.

6. Detox Daily with Zeolite

Toxins are one of the little-known ways that your immune system can underperform. Research shows that heavy metals such as lead can decrease the number of NK (natural killer) cells, lowering immunity (7).

Clinoptilolite zeolite is renowned for detoxing heavy metals, and a wide range of health benefits. Initial clinical research suggests that natural zeolite Clinoptilolite may also have antiviral properties. This research showed that Clinoptilolite zeolite inhibited viral proliferation of several types of viruses (8).

Zeolite has not been tested against coronaviruses, and currently there is no approved treatment for COVID-19. What we do know is that by removing toxins, the right zeolite can support your immune system and overall wellness.

7. Strengthen Your Immune System

The difference between a mild case of coronavirus and one that is more severe may very well come down to how someone’s immune system responds.

That’s why many of the previous steps speak to the importance of your own immune system being strong enough to evade and fight off any pathogens. Read our complete seasonal immunity guide here to stay healthy.

We’re in this together,

By djgriffiths, ago

Chocolate Banana Popsicles

This decadent dark chocolate treat is so rich and creamy you won’t believe it is also non-dairy, full of superfoods, and only 180 calories a pop. Reward yourself with a dessert that tastes good and is good for you!

Chocolate Banana Popsicle Recipe

(makes 6)
6 Popsicle Molds and Sticks
1 scoop Super Green Juice powder
3 ripe bananas
1 can of organic coconut milk (lite)
1 tbsp (tablespoon) coconut oil
2 tbsp of raw, organic honey (opt for maple syrup for vegan)
2 tbsp unsweetened organic cocoa powder
6 dates
Dash of vanilla

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Blend 2 bananas, coconut milk, dates, honey, coconut oil and a dash of vanilla together. Set aside ½ cup of this mixture.
  • To the main liquid, add a scoop of Super Green Juice, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and blend well.
  • Fill up the Popsicle molds about 1/3 with the chocolate mixture.
  • Chop the third banana into small slices, and add it to the molds along with the mixture you have set aside.
  • Top up all the molds with the remainder of the chocolate mixture, leaving a little room for the popsicles to expand during freezing.
  • Freeze and enjoy!

The Good Inside

Decadent and dark, cocoa powder may boost endorphins, the feel-good factor for mood. Plus it is heart-healthy and supports healthy blood pressure.

Banana adds a smooth creamy texture, a hint of sweetness, and a bump of potassium to replenish minerals. Coconut is tasty and comes with MCTs, medium-chain triglycerides that help promote fat loss, especially around the belly area.

Deliciously sweet dates are full of fiber to aid digestion, deliver natural vitamin A and contain over a dozen minerals. Raw honey is a superfood sweetener. It’s a potent mix of fructose, enzymes, vitamins, minerals and amino acids that acts as an antioxidant.

A scoop of Super Green Juice powder provides 44 organic superfoods full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, probiotics, and plant protein.

Each Chocolate Banana Popsicle satisfies your sweet tooth while nourishing your body with healthy superfoods!

Recipe by Jen Hulett. Touchstone Essentials’ Chief Creative Officer takes her creativity into the kitchen to create tasty recipes full of goodness.

By djgriffiths, ago

8 Nutrients Essential for a Healthy Heart

Nutrients Essential for a Healthy Heart

Your heart works around the clock, pumping nutrients and precious oxygen to your body’s tissues. It never takes a break. For the average adult, it beats a whopping 115,000 times and pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood every day (1).

Which is why it’s important that you do anything in your power to ensure it stays healthy. Especially considering the fact that heart disease is the single most common cause of death worldwide (2).

Living a heart-friendly lifestyle involves regular exercise, not smoking, and controlling your stress levels. Just as important as what you do, is what you eat.

Scientists have discovered that your heart needs specific nutrients to stay healthy…

1. Plant-Based Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a critical role in keeping your heart healthy because they protect your body from one of the most common causes of heart disease: the oxidation of cholesterol (3).

When cholesterol oxidizes, it causes fatty plaque to build up on the walls of your arteries, which can result in increased blood pressure and an increased risk of a heart attack.

The key is to consume plant-based antioxidants. Studies using synthetic vitamins—what you’ll find in most multivitamins—show no benefit, while antioxidants from fruits, veggies and herbs are shown to be protective (4).

One of the best ways to get more antioxidants in your diet is to add an organic green juice to your daily routine. Sprinkle some antioxidant-rich berries in for an added heart-healthy boost.

2. Essential Fatty Acids

Researchers have found your body needs a balance of both omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. The problem is, most people get far too many omega-6s from processed foods.

This results in increased inflammation, a higher risk of obesity, and an increased risk of heart disease (5, 6). To remedy this issue, it’s important to get plenty of omega-3s from wild fish, flax seeds or chia seeds (7).

Perhaps surprisingly, you’ll want to avoid fish oil. While eating fish is good for you, most fish oils are highly refined and can easily turn rancid, which makes them pro-inflammatory in the body.

In fact, a complete review of 20 fish oil studies by the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that taking fish oil had no heart-health benefits (8). Stick to wild fish or plant omegas for a healthy heart.

3. Co-Enzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ10 is an enzyme found in almost every cell in the body.  It’s an antioxidant, it helps cells generate energy, and delivers a wide range of heart benefits.

According to a study published by the College of Pharmacy and the Department of Medicine in Canada, “CoQ10 has significant potential for cardiovascular [disease] prevention as a standalone nutritional supplement.” (9)

CoQ10 is especially important for anyone taking cholesterol lowering medication. That’s because the class of drugs known as statins block your body’s production of the essential enzyme.

Plant sources of CoQ10 include spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and legumes. Leafy greens also have the added benefit of reactivating CoQ10 in the body.

4. Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide (N.O.) is a signaling molecule that helps your cells communicate and blood vessels expand. As you grow older, your body gets less efficient at making it and relies more on external sources.

Nitric oxide plays an important role in healthy blood pressure, improved blood flow, energy levels and better athletic performance (10).

Consequently, it’s a good idea to help replenish your body’s nitric oxide levels if you are over 40. You can increase your N.O. levels through nitrate-rich plants including leafy greens, beets and even (dark) chocolate.

5. Magnesium

When it comes to heart-healthy nutrients, magnesium is the most overlooked. But that doesn’t mean it’s less important.

Evidence suggests that magnesium has a direct effect on the ability of your blood vessels to relax (11). So, when you’re deficient in magnesium, it can result in higher blood pressure.

This, in turn, can significantly increase your risk of a heart attack. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 7 of every 10 people having their first heart attack have high blood pressure (12).

Since magnesium deficiencies are exceptionally common, this is a nutrient you don’t want to brush off. Boost your magnesium intake with almonds, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds and spinach.

6.  Curcumin (Turmeric Root)

Curcumin, the primary active compound in turmeric, has a number of benefits that make it incredibly healthy for your heart (13).

Numerous studies have found that curcumin is a powerful antioxidant, it fights inflammation, and it also supports the function of the endothelium, the lining of blood vessels, thereby supporting healthy blood pressure (14).

Collectively, these properties make curcumin an essential part of any heart-healthy diet. Just be aware that curcumin has low bioavailability.

Combine turmeric with black pepper when adding it to recipes to boost absorption or take a supplement with turmeric with essential fatty acids to increase absorption.

7. Sulforaphane

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli contain a compound called sulforaphane. These veggies can help the body detoxify toxins, and are strongly associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer (15). 

How does this keep your heart healthy? Well, when toxins from the environment get into your body, they cause oxidative damage which can compromise the cells in your arteries and heart.

But sulforaphane can rapidly remove toxins found in air pollution, such as benzene, thereby helping to protect the heart from its damaging effects (16).

In addition to broccoli, other foods that contain sulforaphane are cauliflower, kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, and bok choy.

If you have a hard time stomaching these types of veggies, you can get a supplement that contains sulforaphane instead.

8. Folate

Folate is a mineral that’s often associated with maternal health. But healthy prenatal development is far from its only benefit.

Folate helps decrease the amount of homocysteine in your blood. Which is important because when homocysteine levels get too high, studies have found that it significantly increases the risk of heart disease (17).

Rather than the synthetic folic acid found in most multivitamins, aim to get the natural variety (folate) which is found in beans, asparagus, and leafy greens such as spinach, and kale.

One of the easiest and most economical ways to get many of these heart-healthy nutrients is to drink a green juice every day. Pick one with a variety of leafy greens, veggies and antioxidant-rich fruits and you’ll give your heart the natural vitamins, minerals and other nutrients it needs.

Your heart works tirelessly over the years. Keep it ticking in a healthy way by exercising regularly, managing stress, and making sure you get some of these essential nutrients every day. They might be just what you need to keep the beat going for a long and healthy life.

By djgriffiths, ago

5 Surprising Health Benefits of Love

Benefits of Love

No matter if you’re in a relationship or are single, love is an essential part of a happy and healthy life. Whether it’s family, friends or other close relationships, strong connections can lead to some surprising health benefits.

And while new love may make your heart skip a beat, true health benefits come from love that is built on a feeling of being valued and respected. Those strong connections and sense of belonging can be found in relationships with a partner, parent or good friend.

See the five surprising ways that love can benefit your health, and take time to strengthen your relationships or even build new ones. In doing so, you’ll be nourishing a healthy, love-filled life.

1. Enjoy a Happier Life

It may seem obvious, but if your life is full of love, then it will likely be full of happiness. They go hand-in-hand. In fact, one study found that families who have a strong connection and social support system (love) are significantly happier. The study also noted that family income had no effect on happiness. So the old adage, “money can’t buy you love” could be changed to “you don’t need money to have love.”

2. Live a Longer Life

A growing body of research reveals that (happily) married people live longer. One study, for example, evaluated almost 6,000 people and found that people who have never been married have a significantly shorter lifespan. But this doesn’t mean you must be married to extend your life. The point is; love is about mutual support. Those with a strong social support system have protective health benefits that support a long life.

3. Fewer Colds & Flu

Because supportive relationships can reduce stress, your immune system may be better able to fight off invaders that can make you sick. A landmark paper conducted by Carnegie Mellon University researchers showed that those who had positive emotions were better able to fight off the cold and influenza viruses.

4. Better Blood Pressure

Surprisingly enough, love can also lower your blood pressure. One study, for example, compared the blood pressures of single, happily married, and unhappily married people. While those who were happily married had the best blood pressure averages, those who were unhappily married had the worst blood pressure of all the test subjects. Being single and having a healthy social network also led to good results.

5. Healthier Eating Habits

Another factor that can play into the connection between love and health is the “contagion” effect. Scientists have discovered we are strongly influenced by those we are closest to. This effect is so strong that we’ll adopt those behaviors, whether it’s going to the gym or walking around the block. And if someone close to you starts a good habit such as eating more fruits and veggies, you’re more likely to as well. Healthy is contagious.

As humans, we have an inherent need to feel connected, respected, and valued by other people. Love is essential to health and happiness.

By djgriffiths, ago