Happy New Year!
I’m four days into the new year and have managed to stick to my ONE resolution for the year. Yes, I have other plans and goals for 2014 but this is my “New Year’s Resolution.”
Can you guess what it is?
No, it is not to exercise more or eat healthier (although, both exercise and eating healthier can improve your cognition.)
My resolution is to stop using the MICROWAVE.
Why this resolution?
I want to be more conscious about meal planning. If I don’t have a microwave, I can’t wait until 10 minutes before dinner and heat up left-overs.
Secondly, I’ve had the same microwave for 11 years. I feel a draft of air, almost like a fan blowing, when it is on and I’m standing near by. I don’t think this is a good thing. An article by Brain Clark Howard, “11 Surprising Facts and Myths About Microwave Ovens,” published on Good Housekeeping’s website states that microwaves can wear over time. Yikes, I’ve had mine a long time and never tested it for radiation leakage. Can anyone recommend a good electromagnetic field (EMF) detector? The scientist in me would like to conduct a few experiments before I e-cycle my microwave.
Also, by getting rid of my microwave I gain valuable counter space. I might even designate this area my new sprout growing center. Did you know Mumm’s broccoli sprouts contain 50 times more nutrients than full-grown broccoli? Check out the Mumm’s website for a list of all the health benefits of eating sprouts. Find a You-tube video tutorial on growing sprouts and purchase some seeds and glass jars to get started. Your brain will enjoy the new novelty/hobby and will appreciate the added nutritional benefits of eating sprouts.
Lastly, there is conflicting information on whether a microwave “damages” nutrients in your food and whether possible effects contribute to neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, etc.
Thus, good-bye microwave. I don’t want to take my chances if I don’t need the convenience and it is something I can live quite happily without.
Recommended Further Reading:
When researching the topic of microwaves and radiation, I stumbled upon the World Heath Organization (WHO) and discovered they have a team designated to EMF research because according to their website, “Potential health effects of exposure to static and time varying electric and magnetic fields need scientific clarification.” There are some EMFs that are natural and some that are man-made. Microwaves, cell phones, computer screens, anti-theft devices, security systems, radio, television, radar and cellular telephone antennas all emit EMFs at different frequencies and scientists aren’t 100% sure how they are affecting us.
Thankfully, groups like the WHO and the American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM) exist to provide more information about the effects of EMFs. The AAEM website has two **New** documents in regards to EMFs. Check out Wireless Radiofrequency Radiation in Schools: AAEM Calls for Wired Connections in Schools and Smart Meter Case Series.
Dr. Doris Rapp has a post on her blog titled, “Microwaves are Bad, Bad, Bad.”
The food investigator, aka Food Babe, is adamantly against microwave use. She lists the top 5 reasons why you should get rid of your microwave on her website.
Are you going to keep your microwave or perhaps use it less? Let me know what you decide!
Cheers to a healthier brain in 2014!
By: Tina Davidson
Tina Davidson 