The Organic Center (TOC), a leading independent research and education institution dedicated to advancing scientific research behind the health and environmental benefits of organic products and farming, announced today that they are hosting the "For the Health of Our World" fundraiser on Saturday, September 12, from 6 to 9:30pm at Clif Bar's Headquarters in Berkeley, California. Bay Area influencers and organic advocates will join together to celebrate organic food and farming as a sustainable solution in promoting human health, reversing climate change and addressing world hunger issues. Upcoming research initiatives include calculating and analyzing the comparative environmental footprint and production of greenhouse gases of organic versus conventionally produced dairy and beef.

To kick off the fundraiser, TOC is hosting influential leaders for the "Entrepreneur's Open Forum" at the Numi Tea Garden on Saturday, September 12(th), located at 2230 Livingston Street, Oakland, California, from 10am until noon to discuss strategies for healthy business growth. Discussion leaders include Walter Robb, co-president of Whole Foods Market(R); Alex Petrov, president of Lucerne Foods(TM); Michael Funk, chairman of United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI); Samantha Cabaluna, director of communications of Earthbound Farm; Linda Gerwig, vice president of sales at Hain Personal Care; John Foraker, CEO of Annie's Homegrown(R); Jeff Mendelsohn, president of New Leaf Paper; Ted Nordquist, CEO of WholeSoy & Co.; Brent Knudsen, managing partner and founder of Partnership Capital Growth (PCGA); Rheem Rahim, co-founder and creative director of Numi Tea(R); and Will Burke, CEO and co-founder of Brand Engine(R). Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn insights and strategies to enhance business.

Later that same evening following the intimate "Entrepreneur's Open Forum," TOC will host attendees at their fifth annual fundraiser, which will include a presentation from guest speaker Myra Goodman, co-founder of Earthbound Farm. Guests will be invited to sample delicious organic hors d'oeuvres prepared with O Organics((TM)) ingredients by celebrity Chef Domenica Catelli while sipping on specialty cocktails made with Square One((TM)) Vodka. The evening will also showcase a 15-minute film festival showcasing Food Inc, FRESH, Soil: In Good Heart, among other inspiring films and a silent auction featuring varied products and experiences from the Northern California community. Auction highlights include a vineyard tour, wine tasting, lunch and a mixed case of wine from Frey Vineyard; three weeks of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) fruit and vegetable delivery; and other high-value items.

In addition to the morning discussion and evening fundraiser, media and journalist are invited to a meet-and-greet at 5:30pm prior to the Fundraiser to speak with the host committee; Dr. Charles Benbrook, the chief scientist at TOC; among other VIP attendees.

The host committee for the evening includes Walter Robb, co-president of Whole Foods Market; Michael Funk, chairman of UNFI; Gary Erickson, CEO of Clif Bar & Company; Ahmed Rahim, President, and Rheem Rahim, co-founder and creative director, of Numi Tea; Myra Goodman, co-founder of Earthbound Farm; and Alex Petrov, president of Lucerne Foods.

Sponsors of the event include Premier Sponsor O Organics; Platinum Sponsors Lundberg Family Farms(R), Organic Valley(R), Horizon(TM); Gold Sponsors Partnership Capital Growth Advisors (PCGA), Brand Engine(R); and Silver Sponsors Be Green Packaging and Whole Foods Market(R). The Organic Center would also like to acknowledge the continual support from their valued Cornerstone donors Annie's Homegrown, Aurora Organic Dairy, Dean Foods(R), Driscoll's(R), Frontier Natural Products Co-op(TM), The Hain Celestial Group, Hidden Villa Ranch, Nature's Path Foods(R), New Chapter(R), New Hope Natural Media, Small Planet Foods(R), Solera Capital, Stonyfield Farm(R), Sunflower Markets(R), United Natural Foods, Weil Lifestyle, and WhiteWave Foods.

The Organic Center is committed to raising awareness among consumers of the nutritional benefits of organic foods. Underscoring this mission, TOC recently refuted a study commissioned by the British government's Food Standards Agency (FSA) entitled "Nutritional quality of organic foods: a systematic review." Highlighting multiple missteps in the FSA's analysis, TOC released an in-depth analysis that shows the UK agency's failure to properly assess differences in the levels of antioxidants and not using stringent guidelines to determine whether the studies are scientifically valid.

Source: The Organic Center

From cranky bosses to incompetent coworkers, traffic jams, inconsiderate drivers, and crowded break rooms, the hurdles people encounter while making their way through the typical work day in big cities are enough to drive even the sanest of people up a wall.

Tanna Marshall, a holistic health consultant and certified massage therapist with more than 18 years' experience as a natural health practitioner, offers a collection of tips and advice to help people deal with the daily stressors of living in a big city in her new book, "Living Peacefully in a Big City: A Guide to Maintaining Your Sanity, Health and Happiness" (published by iUniverse). Along with the simple reminder to be kind to one another, Marshall includes suggestions on how to reduce stress and deal with difficult issues while staying healthy in body, mind and spirit.

"After returning from a trip to Hawaii in 1994, where I felt surrounded by kind, courteous and peaceful people, I was tempted to move to the islands," explains Marshall. "Instead I decided to bring the attitudes I encountered back to my hometown of Los Angeles, California. "Living Peacefully in a Big City" blossomed as I wrote down tips and advice learned during my careers, that have effectively allowed myself -- as well as my clients -- to reduce daily stress and to live more peaceful, fulfilled lives."

Marshall's personal, story-telling approach addresses basic daily issues with easy, practical solutions to quickly dissipate stress or negativity in any situation, ranging from physical to spiritual. Concise and to the point, "Living Peacefully in a Big City" answers impactful questions such as:

• How improving your sex life changes your work day
• Why people should take regular vacations before, not after, they are burned out
• What to do when you feel your temper rising and attitude declining
• What's the best way to handle an overwhelming workload
• Why random acts of kindness are more influential than people think
  

"Tanna Marshall has written an easily accessible, amazingly helpful and simple-to-apply tool kit of ideas to help us free the mind, heal the soul and open ourselves to a life of peace and power," says Mary Manin Morrissey, author of "Building Your Field of Dreams."

About the Author

Tanna Marshall is a holistic health consultant and certified massage therapist with more than 18 years' experience as a natural health practitioner. She enjoys helping others improve the quality of their lives in body, mind and spirit. Marshall resides in the Los Angeles area and is available nationwide by arrangement and via telephone. For more information, visithttp://www.TannasHolisticHealthcare.com or participate in Tanna's blog athttp://www.livingpeacefullynow.blogspot.com.

SOURCE iUniverse

October is National Breast Cancer awareness month and for the seventh consecutive year consumers can purchase FAT bastard wines to help conquer this devastating disease. During the months of September and October, FAT bastard will donate 25 cents for every bottle of FAT bastard sold in restaurants and retail locations, up to $75,000. By the end of this year's campaign, FAT bastard will have raised nearly one half of a million dollars for this important cause.

Consumers purchasing FAT bastard should feel confident that their hard-earned dollars will directly support breast cancer research, education and treatment, making an immediate impact.

Over the past five years the Christina S. Walsh foundation has provided support for breast cancer patients in more than 32 states. "Thanks to the donations of companies such as FAT bastard, we have not had to say no to one patient yet," said Robert Walsh, Director. "While we firmly believe finding a cure is imperative, we are focused on providing financial support to patients facing breast cancer and helping them deal with everyday hardships." The Christina S. Walsh foundation is a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance for treatments of uninsured patients, medications and tests not covered by insurance, wigs, transportation to and from treatments, hospice care and other financial burdens facing breast cancer patients.

"Advancements are being made in the prevention, detection and treatment of breast cancer every day, yet this insidious disease continues to inflict too much suffering and loss. Our ongoing research to find a cure would not be possible without the generous support and long standing commitment of donors such as FAT bastard Wines," said Kit Herrod, Director of External Affairs, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research center, "They are an indispensable member of our team."

During the donation period, FAT bastard wines will be easy to spot on the shelf, wearing a special breast cancer awareness necker with an attached pink ribbon pin for consumers to wear in show of their support.

FAT bastard continues to grow in popularity with consumers, making it one of the top selling French wines in the United States. This is a compliment to FAT bastard's consistent high-quality, fun and unforgettable name and consumer friendly packaging. Sourced in Languedoc-Rousillon, the FAT bastard wine collection consists of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, Pinot Noir, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. For more information about FAT bastard wine visit fatbastard.com or call toll-free 1.800.859.0689.

Source: Click Wine Group

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled Nissan LEAF, the world's first affordable, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.

NISSAN LEAF

Slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility - the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan's radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research.

"Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment - one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride," said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. "We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality - the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero - not simply reduced - emissions. It's the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey - for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry."

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:

1. Zero-emission power train and platform
2. Affordable pricing
3. Distinctive design
4. Real-world range autonomy - 160km (100 miles)
5. Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system
   

The "LEAF" name is a significant statement about the car itself. Just as leaves purify the air in nature, so Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience. Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world. As an added benefit, because the vehicle has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car, Nissan LEAF is designed to be friendly to the wallet as well as to the environment.

ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY

Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.

Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF's power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF's regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge*. (*US LA4 mode)

Extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world's consumers who drive cars.

And, Nissan's approach makes charging easy and convenient. Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours - ample time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.

REAL-WORLD CAR

The engineers and designers behind Nissan LEAF worked to create a competitively priced real-world car that would enable Nissan to lead mobility into the zero-emission era. To ensure comfort, spaciousness and cargo capacity, Nissan LEAF employs a completely new chassis and body layout.

"Our car had to be the world's first, medium-size, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that's what we've created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility," said Masato INOUE, Product Chief Designer.

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN

Even the smallest details can yield tremendous effect.

Nissan LEAF's frontal styling is characterized by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, "This car is special." But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume just 10 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.

Through bright trim colors inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly "blue earth" color theme originates from the Aqua Globe body color of Nissan LEAF's introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

CONNECTED MOBILITY IT SYSTEM

Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF's remaining power - or "reachable area" - in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions - even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

"The IT system is a critical advantage," says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. "We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible."

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATION

Nissan LEAF is a critical first step in establishing the era of zero-emission mobility; however, Nissan recognizes that internal-combustion engine (ICE) technologies will play a vital role in global transportation for decades to come. Because of this, Nissan is implementing its zero-emission vision through a holistic approach, which provides consumers a comprehensive range of eco-friendly technologies from which to choose.

For some consumers, Nissan LEAF will be the perfect match, and the only car they will ever need. For others, Nissan LEAF will be a logical addition to the family fleet - the optimal choice for the daily commute, for example.

While zero-emission is the ultimate goal, the company is committed to ongoing innovation in eco-friendly technologies that increase efficiency and reduce emissions. As a result, Nissan offers a comprehensive suite of automotive technologies, including CVT, Idle Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and ongoing research and investment in FCV technology.

WORLDWIDE PARTNERS

Zero-emission mobility programs under the banner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance include partnerships with countries such as the UK and Portugal, local governments in the Japan and the USA, and other sectors, for a total of nearly 30 partnerships worldwide.

In these partnerships major efforts focus on three areas:

1) Development of a comprehensive charging infrastructure through public and private investment,

2) Incentives and subsidies from local, regional, and national governments, and

3) Public education on the individual and societal benefits of zero-emissions mobility.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PRODUCTION

Nissan LEAF is the first in the company's forthcoming line of EVs and is a major milestone in the realization of the Renault-Nissan Alliance's vision for zero-emission mobility. The first of Nissan's EVs will be manufactured at Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee, USA. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries are being produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the USA, the UK and Portugal, and other sites for investment are under study around the world.

ABOUT NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is a global automotive company with vehicle sales of 3.411 million in 2008. Nissan is present in all major auto markets worldwide, selling a comprehensive range of cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles.

NISSAN BLUE CITIZENSHIP

Nissan is committed to making a better world through its commitment to corporate social responsibility. This includes programs that focus on technological innovations that focus on people and care for the planet. Our vision for zero-emission mobility is an outgrowth of our CSR approach, which we call Blue Citizenship. Together, we are working with our Alliance partner, Renault, to make a better world through zero-emission mobility.

For more information, please visit the Nissan Zero-Emission website:

http://www.nissan-zeroemission.com

SOURCE Nissan North America

With summertime in full swing, vacationers are packing their bags for the nearest beaches, parks and poolside locations. Spending an increased amount of time outdoors is common during the summer months, but before you start soaking up those rays, be sure you are properly equipped with the right products to help you stay healthy.

Dr. Melonie Clemmons, independent doctor of optometry at Wal-Mart Vision Center, offers some helpful tips on what you should pack in your bag to ensure your time outdoors is both fun and healthy:

• Always pack sunscreen to protect your skin from premature aging and skin cancers
  

Make sure you choose a sunscreen product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and remember to reapply after swimming, sweating or toweling dry.(1)

• Bring along protective eyewear to block the sun's harmful UV rays
  

People often recognize the need to protect their skin from the dangers of the sun, yet few people realize that their eyes are also at risk. Even the sensitive skin surrounding the eyes can be damaged by prolonged sun exposure and is susceptible to wrinkling and forms of skin cancer. Consider wearing photochromic lenses like Transitions(R) lenses that are clear indoors and at night and automatically darken when exposed to UV light to block 100 percent of UVA/UVB rays.

• Water
  

Staying hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water everyday can help combat the effects of increased sun exposure.

• Pack lip balm with SPF protection
  

The sun's UV rays pose a threat to your skin, eyes and also your lips. Wearing lip balm with SPF protection can protect your lips from overexposure to the sun and help prevent painful lip chapping.

• Pack a wide brimmed hat and other protective clothing
  

Selecting clothing that helps block some of UV rays further helps you keep both your skin and eyes protected from the sun. On really sunny days where you spend extended time outdoors, consider bringing a beach umbrella to provide you with a chance to relax in the shade.

• Check the UV index for your travel destination
  

Before you head outdoors visit (http://en-us.transitions.com/healthysight/uv/local.htm) check the UV index to see how strong the sun will be in your area, so you can plan accordingly for your time in the sun.

"In order to receive the maximum protection, it's important to make sure that your eyewear blocks 100% of UV rays," said Dr. Clemmons. "I recommend that my patients choose photochromic lenses, like Transitions( )lenses, as a convenient choice to bring with them on vacation. Not only do Transitions reduce distracting glare, but they also automatically darken as light conditions change to block 100% of UVA/UVB rays, protecting the eyes and the delicate surrounding skin from cumulative sun damage."

SOURCE Transitions Optical, Inc.

Stress is a natural part of life. Yet it seems that between the economic recession, multiple health crises, and other seemingly endless things, individuals are experiencing heightened anxiety. People often deal with stress by trying to find methods that will lessen their intense emotions. However, a number of eating patterns that people develop to cope during this time actually worsen the stress.

Here are some common eating patterns that you may fall into when under stress:

1. Starting a new diet.

While it may seem like a good idea to start a new diet when you're going through a stressful time, any type of diet is stressful. This is true whether you're resolving to fast during the day, eat only one meal a day, or throw out all the junk food and start a whole new healthy eating plan.

When you're under stress, the best approach is to make tiny changes. For example, decrease the number of sodas you drink a day from ten to eight. Or better yet, just resolve to eat an extra fruit or vegetable a day. Wait to embark on larger changes until you are less stressed emotionally so as to avoid stressing yourself physically.

2. Eating more junk food than usual.

It's not uncommon to feel hungrier under stress. The extra cortisol in your bloodstream from the stress reaction can increase food cravings, especially cravings for sweets and high-fat foods. Eating sweets can increase serotonin in our brains, which makes us feel good--but so can taking a walk. Most importantly, if you do yield to your craving, eat mindfully, with your attention focused on how the food tastes and on how it feels in your mouth and your body. Mindless eating tends to lead to overeating or bingeing; by staying focused on what you're eating, you're less likely to let emotions or stress control how much and what you eat.

3. Losing your appetite, only to have it come back later with a vengeance.

Although you may not feel hungry when dealing with a big stressor like the breakup of a relationship, don't stop eating, as this can increase your bingeing later on. Instead, eat small meals or snacks throughout the day to avoid rebound hunger.

4. Eating because your appetite is out of control.

If you feel like overeating, first check your level of hunger. Ask yourself what you're really hungry for (emotionally). What (emotions) are you trying to stuff down with your food? See if you can satisfy the craving or emotional need in another way. For example, drink a glass of water, call a friend, or take a walk. Stay mindful of what your body needs as opposed to what you need emotionally and respond accordingly.

5. Eating because you feel tired.

When you're stressed to the max, you may feel tired and have low energy. Don't mistake this for true physical hunger. Eating won't raise your energy in this instance; in fact, eating large amounts of food can actually further stress your body because it diverts scarce energy resources to digestion. Test whether or not you're physically hungry by eating a small snack and paying attention to your body's cues. If you find that you're just tired, then take a nap or engage in some other restful activity.

Here are some ways you can deal with it:

• Determine which patterns you identify with when you are under stress.
• List three telltale signs that will help you identify the patterns.
  

(Example: I know I'm stress-eating when I stop at a fast food restaurant on the way home and eat in my car. Or: I know I'm going to binge when I get home from work when I haven't eaten all day.)

• Decide on actions you can take when these signs indicate that you are stress-eating.
  

(Example: If I find myself craving fast food, I'll make dinner plans with a friend and talk about my stressful day. Or: When I realize I've skipped breakfast, I'll make sure to eat a healthy lunch and a mid-morning protein snack to avoid bingeing later in the evening.)

• Take one of the actions.
  

Adapted from The Binge Eating & Compulsive Overeating Workbook: An Integrated Approach to Overcoming Disordered Eating (New Harbinger Publications, July 2009) by Carolyn Coker Ross, MD, MPH. Dr. Ross is a physician, author, and nationally recognized speaker. She currently is a consultant for the dual diagnosis eating disorders program at The Ranch, an addiction treatment center near Nashville, TN and is in private practice in Denver, CO.

Strawberries are ripe, tomatoes are plump and watermelons are juicy...it must be summertime! Eating healthy as part of leading a spa lifestyle is easier than you might think -- by visiting local farmers' markets and food co-ops, you can buy locally and healthfully while spending less money. Spas are championing the cause by preparing meals from on-site organic gardens, and 19 percent are offering healthy cooking classes.

"The spa is the perfect place to educate yourself on healthy eating," said International SPA Association President Lynne McNees. "In fact, of the spas that offer educational programs and workshops, 51 percent offer nutritional counseling and 40 percent offer healthy eating programs. Spa cuisine can include wine, red meat and dairy products; it's all about creating a balance for your diet, mind, body and spirit."

Don't be fooled by the myth that spa cuisine is bland and unfilling; spa chefs are creating unique and scrumptious meals that still keep calories in check. ISPA members have got you covered this summer with tasty recipes they're cooking up. And, find out what spa chefs have to say about spa cuisine by watching this video. Below are some leading spa chefs' philosophies on spa cuisine:

• Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Hua Hin, Thailand - "Our concept is to provide healthy cuisine with many flavors so guests won't notice it's good for them! Moderation should be in the ingredients, not the flavor. All of our dishes can be made at home using ingredients that can be purchased anywhere," said Executive Chef Paisarn Cheewinsiriwat.
• The Elmwood Spa, Toronto, ON - "Food augments the spa experience by highlighting the importance of balancing nutritional intake with healthy, appealing and varied choices. We offer vegetarian and gluten-free selections, our meats are grain-fed and our sauces are free of preservatives and thickeners," said Senior Manager, Food & Beverage Britwin Dias.
• Ste. Anne's a Haldimand Hills Spa, Grafton, ON - "Deprivation only discourages - with that in mind, we tempt our guests with well-balanced meals that please the eye and palate. We use fresh ingredients to enhance flavors with herbs and reductions instead of rich sauces," said Chef Christopher Ennew C.C.C.
• The Spa at Pinehurst Resort, Pinehurst, NC - "Our focus is on healthy lifestyles for a lifetime, not short-term dieting and calorie counting. Our menus reflect heart-healthy and recommended daily allowances, combined with proper exercise, skin care and healthy life habits," said Executive Chef Thierry Debailleul.
• Willow Stream the Spa at The Fairmont Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ - "We seek farmers who know their seeds and soil, ranchers who care about their livestock and seafood purveyors concerned about the health of the sea. We've partnered with local farmers to grow vegetables and herbs exclusively for us," said Chef Noah Bekofsky.

SOURCE International SPA Association

Whole Foods Market (Nasdaq: WFMI), a leading natural and organic grocer, today received the Natural Products Association's "2009 Socially Responsible Retailer Award" for excellence in integrating social responsibility into multiple aspects of business.

"This award recognizes that our retailers are valued and integral parts of their communities, and that they provide much more than simply a place to purchase natural products," said Natural Product Association President Debra Short. "All the award recipients are serious about being a source of support for their employees and their communities in environmental, social and educational efforts, and the work that Whole Foods Market and its Foundation do are excellent examples of how dedication to local and global action can generate positive results."

While there were several determining factors for selection, the work of the Company's nonprofit Whole Planet Foundation was the primary reason that Whole Foods Market was chosen for the award.

"The Whole Planet Foundation represents an incredible expansion of Whole Foods Market's mission to actively lend a helping hand to our global neighbors in communities that supply our stores with products," says Philip Sansone, president and executive director of The Whole Planet Foundation. "We are thrilled that our nonprofit work through the foundation was recognized as a key factor in securing this award for Whole Foods Market. Caring about our communities and our environment is one of our core values, so to be one of only three companies to receive a '2009 Socially Responsible Retailer Award' is a tremendous honor."

Established in October 2005, The Whole Planet Foundation empowers the poor through microcredit in developing countries where the Company sources products. To date, the foundation has committed $9.9 million for micro-lending projects, and has provided $5.3 million in grants to microfinance groups around the globe, resulting in $13 million in microcredit loans - usually less than $200 - to start home-based businesses. The project has given more than 41,000 people the chance to lift themselves and, on average, five family members, out of poverty, effectively impacting a total of 205,000 people in communities in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

SOURCE Whole Foods Market

What secret do Gwyneth Paltrow, Donna Karan and other celebrities know about creating healthy, vibrant life-and why are they all turning to Dr. Alejandro Junger?  Because over the past decade he has developed a program to help his patients reach new levels of vitality and wellness.  The program is explained in his book: Clean: The Revolutionary Program to Restore the Body's Natural Ability to Heal Itself.  Junger says it is unnecessary to suffer colds, allergies, extra pounds that won't come off, restless nights, recurrent digestive problems, itchy skin and acne or depression or fatigue.  He reveals the simple, whole life solution other doctors have missed.  

How many of us can honestly say we do not suffer from at least one of the following:

• Colds or viruses each year
• Allergies or hay fever
• Extra pounds that won't come off
• Restless nights
• Recurrent indigestion, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome
• Itchy skin, acne, or any other troubling skin condition
• Depression, anxiety, or frequent fatigue

If you were to seek medical advice for any of the above, you would likely be prescribed pills, topical lotions, injections, or even surgery. Such treatments are used to manage the symptoms and do not address the root of the problem. Too often, doctors treat these common ailments as inevitable costs of living a modern life. The result is a patchwork approach to health care that has become the norm.

In Clean, a New York City cardiologist and a leader in the field of integrative medicine, Dr. Alejandro Junger offers a major medical breakthrough. Dr. Junger argues that the majority of these common ailments are the direct result of toxic buildup in our systems accumulated through the course of our daily lives. As the toxicity of modern life increases and disrupts our systems on a daily basis, bombarding us through our standard American diet and chemical-filled environments, our ability to handle the load hasn't accelerated at the same rapid pace. The toxins are everywhere, but Clean offers a solution.

Clean is an M.D.'s program that provides all the tools necessary to support and reactivate our detoxification system to its fullest capabilities, and can be easily incorporated into a busy schedule. The effect is transformative: nagging health problems will suddenly disappear, extra weight will drop away, and for the first time in our lives we will experience what it truly means to feel healthy.

Every day spent on the Clean program is a major step in healing not just the symptom but the root of the problem, effectively and simply. Dr. Junger's life-changing program restores what rightfully belongs to you--your health, vitality, and peace of mind.

Dr. Alejandro Junger is a prominent New York cardiologist and a leader in the field of integrative medicine.  Board-certified in internal medicine and cardiology, Dr. Junger trained and is now practicing in New York City.  After completing his medical training, Junger studied Eastern medicine in India.  He was the medical director of WE Care Holistic Health Center in Palm Springs, a world-famous center for fasting, cleansing and detoxification.  Currently he is in private practice at the renowned Eleven Eleven Wellness Center and is the director of integrative medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

As Americans hit the gym this summer to continue to tone up for the beach, Gold's Gym, the world's leading authority on health and fitness, is exposing some of the most common myths about getting in shape and offering the must have nutrition and fitness facts to help everyone reach their individual goals. From muscle soreness after a workout, to the timeless argument of running on a treadmill versus running outside, the fitness experts at Gold's Gym have put together a list of the top myths surrounding diet, exercise and fitness to help Americans maximize their gym experience.

"There is so much conflicting information about how to get in shape that it's no wonder people can get confused," said Robert Reames, Personal Training and Obesity expert of the Gold's Gym Fitness Institute. "We want to give Americans the clear cut answers to these common myths so that they can focus on reaching their goals and achieving lasting results."

Reames has identified the seven most common gym myths, and reveals the truth behind these misperceptions.

• MYTH #1: 1,000 crunches a day will guarantee you a six-pack.
  

FACT: There is no such thing as "spot reduction," but there is such a thing as spot conditioning. Muscles can be conditioned by training and focusing on them, but without burning the fat covering your abdomen, you'll never get that washboard stomach.

• MYTH #2: It's only a good workout if you're sore the next day.
  

FACT: Soreness is related to a number of factors, none of which directly correlate to muscle growth. In fact, Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) occurs when nerve endings become inflamed after micro trauma to muscle tissue. In short, don't overdo it.

• MYTH #3: Women get "bulky" or "masculine" if they lift weights.
  

FACT: Women simply don't have enough testosterone to attain the appearance of a male body builder. The muscle you are able to build lifting weights will only improve your appearance for a toned, sculpted and feminine appearance. Also, weight training builds muscle density, which is key to fighting osteoporosis.

• MYTH #4: Exercising long and slow burns more fat.
  

FACT: Your body uses fat for energy while exercising at a lower intensity, but training at a high intensity will burn more calories during and after you've stopped working out.

• MYTH #5: If you beef up on protein, you'll gain muscle.
  

FACT: Everybody needs protein to rebuild and repair muscles, but overloading on protein will get you nowhere. There's only a certain amount of nutrients your body can handle before it just turns to waste. According to the American Dietetic Association, six to seven daily ounces of lean meat provides enough protein for most athletes.

• MYTH #6: Running on a treadmill is better for your joints than pavement.
  

FACT: Joint pain surfaces anytime your body is pounding on a surface it isn't used to. To avoid jolting your neurological system, it is best to vary workouts between treadmill and pavement running. Elliptical machines and recumbent bikes can also be used in place of running.

• MYTH #7: Muscle turns to fat if you stop lifting weights.
  

FACT: Muscle cannot physically turn into fat, however muscles can begin to atrophy (reduce in size) after eliminating weight training from a fitness routine. In addition, metabolism will slow down and hinder the ability to burn as many calories, which results in an increase in body fat.

Dispelling myths and providing accurate information is all part of Gold's Gym's mission to help people achieve their individual potential through fitness.

Source: Gold's Gym