Infrared energy, also known as radiant heat, is a form of energy that heats objects directly through a process called conversion, without having to heat the air in between. Our sun is the principal source of radiant energy.

Far-infrared rays are part of the sunlight spectrum which is invisible to the naked eye. They are also known as biogenetic rays. Scientists have proven that these rays promote the growth and health of living cells in humans, animals and plants.

Far-infrared light penetrates beyond the skin level and is absorbed by cells below, whereas visible light is mostly bounced off the skin surface. Near-infrared is mostly absorbed at the skin level and raises the skin temperature. Far-infrared can penetrate up to 4 centimetres, causing resonance with water molecules and resonating with cellular frequencies. Thus, FIR can revitalize human cells and tissue by warming the body from the inside.

A series of recent studies shows an interesting link between certain foods and drinks and the prevention of damage through the sun on our skin.

While reducing your exposure to the bright sun and wearing thin, long layered clothing are still the best choices to avoid skin damage and sun burns, there are a number of foods that can help to heal and restore. Just turn to your kitchen and feed your skin.

White, green and black tea, in particular with lemon, have been found to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Exposure to the harmful ultraviolet radiation UVB can cause free radical stress, which can lead to the development of wrinkles. The antioxidants in tea can help the skin the damaging effects of the sun.

Foods rich in lycopene and carotenoids, such as red tomatoes, green peppers, carrots, and onions provide some protection against skin cancer and help against prematurely aged skin. The micronutrient carotenoid is mostly found in dark yellow or red vegetables and fruits. By eating tomatoes, peppers, melons, fresh apples and pomegranates the carotenoids are distributed in the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin. They help absorb the light, act as antioxidants and offer anti-inflammation from sunburn. Plus, they increase blood circulation and absorption of skin nutrition.

On April 8, 2008, the Harper Tories introduced Bill C-51 which would lead to more regulatory scrutiny of natural health products sold in Canada. The proposed legislation, if passed into law, will have a major impact on natural health in Canada and will restrict the choices Canadians currently have in regards to natural health products.

Many Canadians feel the bill will outlaw up to 60 per cent of natural health products currently sold in Canada, making many natural health products that have been sold in Canada for years unavailable for purchase and penalizing consumer who choose herbs or supplements for themselves and their children.

Germany has banned a family of pesticides that are blamed for the deaths of millions of honeybees. The German Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) has suspended the registration for eight pesticide seed treatment products used in rapeseed oil and sweetcorn.

The move follows reports from German beekeepers in the Baden-Württemberg region that two thirds of their bees died earlier this month following the application of a pesticide called clothianidin.

"It's a real bee emergency," said Manfred Hederer, president of the German Professional Beekeepers' Association. "50-60% of the bees have died on average and some beekeepers have lost all their hives."

Vitamin D has been received much attention in recent months. While natural health practitioners have long integrated vitamin D in the treatment of certain health issues, the Canadian Cancer Society now recommends all Canadians to supplement with vitamin D during winter months.

Vitamin D is produced naturally by the body. People get most of their vitamin D from sunlight. After being exposed to adequate amounts of sunlight, the skin produces vitamin D, which is then converted to its active form by the kidneys. Studies suggest that as we age, we tend to produce less vitamin D.

You can also find good amounts of vitamin D in certain kinds of fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as cod liver oil.

Some supplements use synthetic vitamin D2. A much better form is the natural and bioavailable vitamin D3 which is more effective and stays longer in the system.

Get ready for the great outdoors and protect yourself with a good sunscreen.

However, commercial sunscreens contain potentially dangerous ingredients which may be more harmful then beneficial.

According to statistics the number of skin cancer is rising. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and accounts for 8,500 deaths annually.

One theory for the increasing numbers is that harmful chemicals found in commercial sunscreens are doing more harm than good.

Non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG) tested 831 sunscreens of which 84 percent did not pass health and environmental guidelines. Some experts even suggest that sunscreen formula may be cancer causing. Many contain potentially harmful chemicals such as Benzophenone, homosalate and octyl methoxycinnamate (also called octinoxate), which are known to mimic naturally occurring hormones. Some sunscreens contain Padimate-0 and parsol 1789 (also known as avobenzone), which are suspected of causing DNA damage when exposed to sunlight.

Chocolate has gained a reputation as a healthy and tasty treat. Indeed chocolate has some health benefits, but they largely depend on the type of chocolate you’re eating.

Organic Chocolate

Most of the chocolate bars and treats on the market are not organic, which means they are grown with chemical pesticides and often irradiated. Cocoa, just like cotton, is a heavily sprayed crop. Organic chocolate is free of added heavy metals, chemicals and pesticides.

Look for fair-traded product to ensure proper working conditions for the farming families and communities, while supporting sustainable farming methods and the environment.

Tea comes in all colours and varieties, from black and green to white and oolong to red and herbal. So which one offers the most health benefits?

Drinking tea has been regarded in China and India as a healthy tradition for thousands of years. Western research studies tea for the prevention and treatment of different health concerns. Tea contains high levels of antioxidants, some of which are called polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechins. Antioxicants fight the free radicals in our body and protect healthy cells.

Even though researchers can’t quite agree on the exact benefits of tea, numerous studies support a broad spectrum of health promoting qualities in tea.

Studies have found that polyphenols help prevent blood clotting and lower cholesterol levels. According to the Archives of Internal Medicine tea drinkers have lower blood pressure.

The growing interest in healthy food also ignited a huge interest in a raw food lifestyle. Raw foodists claim that a diet consisting of organic, fresh, uncooked fruits and vegetables, as well as sprouted nuts and seeds achieves maximum health, detoxifies the body and saves the planet.

Raw foods contain enzymes which are important in aiding digestion and absorption of food. This means that the body's own enzymes may work better in regulating the body's metabolism. Heating food above 110-120 degrees Fahrenheit decreases or destroys enzymes. Freezing food is acceptable, even though freezing lowers enzyme activity.

Raw foods contain friendly bacteria and other micro-organisms that affect the immune system and digestion by populating the digestive tract with gut flora. When handled and prepared properly, raw food can help to lessen and relief heartburn, gas, indigestion or constipation (check with your holistic health practitioner if you are fit for a raw or partially raw diet).

More people are turning to herbal medicines in their search for more natural and gentle health care. Herbal remedies are cost-effective and offer relief from an abundance of ailments.

However, self-medication is cautioned, as herbal remedies can have short-term or long-term effects.

Most spices are not consumed in large amounts so the average person will not notice their effect. Large or long-term doses of any spice or herb to achieve a desired health benefit should not be taken without consulting a physician.

As every human has individual needs, the health benefits of all herbs and spices may vary from person to person. Also potencies vary among the many different preparation methods and brands.

Always follow label directions, unless otherwise prescribed by a herbologist, traditional Chinese doctor, Ayurvedic doctor, naturopathic or homeopathic doctor or other certified natural health care provider.