THE DIRT
Unfortunately Australian food regulations allow the use of additives that have been banned in other countries for many years.

The additives listed below are currently being investigated for safety after previous studies have found links to temper tantrums, poor concentration, asthma and rashes.

Tatrazine (102) is a coal tar dye (also known as FD & C yellow 5). It is banned in many countries and is found in drinks and processed foods. It has been associated with asthma, dermatitis, behavioural problems and is carcinogenic.

Ponceau 4R (124) is also called cochineal red A, it is a monoazo dye and is banned in some countries. It has been associated with asthma, hyperactivity and hay fever. It is also carcinogenic.

Sunset yellow (110) (FD & C yellow number  6) and Quinoline yellow (104)
are synthetic colourings that have been associated with asthma, skin rashes, anaphylaxis and hyperactivity. They are also carcinogenic and for this reason have been banned in many countries.

Carmoisine (122) is also called azorubine and is banned in some countries due to the fact that it is an animal carcinogen. It has also been associated with asthma and hyperactivity.

Allura Red AC (129) a colouring also banned in some countries, in addition to being associated with asthma and cancer there are proven adverse reproductive effects in animals.

Sodium Benzoate (211) a preservative has been linked with asthma, dermatitis, hay fever, mouth and skin irritation and hyperactivity.

The other nasties:
Trans fatty acids, also known as trans fat, is an artery-clogging fat that is formed when vegetable oils are hardened into margarine or shortening. Trans fat is known to increase blood levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, while lowering levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), known as "good" cholesterol.  ‘Trans fat’ are not required to be listed on the label so look out for ‘hydrogenated vegetable oils / fats’.
Visit Dr Mercola for more information.

Aspartame accounts for over 75 percent of the adverse reactions to food additives reported to the Food and Drug Administration (USA). Many of these reactions are very serious including seizures and death. There have been 90 different documented symptoms listed as being caused by aspartame including: Headaches/migraines, dizziness, seizures, numbness, muscle spasms, weight gain, rashes, depression, fatigue, irritability, insomnia, vision problems, hearing loss, heart palpitations, breathing difficulties, anxiety attacks, slurred speech, loss of taste, memory loss, and joint pain.
Visit Dr Mercola for more information

For more information on food additives we recommend the following books;
'The Chemical Maze' By Bill Statham
 'Additive Alert’ by Perth Mum Julie Eady. Visit her website to find out more.


G SPOT
See the current issue of Flourish Magazine for an article on what drives Gina to run CleanLife.

COME CLEAN
Converting to 'safe snacks' and quick meals can be easier than you think with these ideas......

sweetlife bake mix Chocolate Fudge Brownie makes a delicious, healthy Brownie that is Sugar Free, Gluten/Flour Free and has a very Low GI. Made from natural ingredients and sweetened with natural xylitol.  The Brownies are a good source of protein and dietary fibre and have only one carbohydrate per serving.  Perfect for the whole family www.sweetlife.com.au

Thermomix – a healthier, easier way of cooking for you and your family.
Eliminate additives and preservatives while maintaining the goodness of your whole-foods. Achieve time and money savings in the kitchen. Chop, mince, juice, grind, knead, emulsify, steam, stir, weigh, time and cook all in one bowl, which even washes itself. Call Peta Crogan (Independent Consultant)
Mobile: 0427 159 033 Email: vibrance@westnet.com.au
www.thermomix.com.au

And of course there is always fresh fruit that comes ready in it's own eco-wrapping (bananas) and remember many kids that refuse conventionally grown fruit and veg will accept the sweeter organic varieties!

See our ‘healthy snack food blog’ for some suggestions from other CleanLife readers. Please feel free to add your own ideas!

Check our Come Clean Archive for previous tips.

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