DIY Beauty Products

Artificial sweeteners are terrible for you.

A recent study performed by Yanina Pepino of the Washington School of Medicine in St. Louis discovered that consuming sucralose — such as “Splenda” — can increase insulin production in the body by 20% when taken with sugar.

The study confirmed that over long periods of time, elevated insulin levels will cause insulin resistance in the body, which will lead to type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can lead to multiple other health problems, which can ultimately lead to death.

The study found that

Sugar substitute sucralose had an effect on blood sugar levels
insulin production increased by 20% when consumed

Scientists aren’t sure what implications are, but said that regularly elevated insulin levels could eventually cause insulin resistance and even diabetes

The study focused on people who are obese and people who didn’t already use artificial sweeteners.

The researchers cautioned that the results need to be examined further and do not necessarily imply a link between Splenda and diabetes.

What we can learn, though, is that the notion of Splenda’s guilt-free marketing efforts, it affects the human body in serious and dangerous ways.

Hear are some tips from our editors at Healing Lifestyles & Spas, to help you have a clean, healthy lifestyle.

Use Natural Products

You may be earth friendly but are your beauty products?

Here are are favorite all natural products you can make at home.

All Natural Berry Facemask

• In a blender, combine 2 tablespoons plain yogurt plus 2 tablespoons honey, and pulse or blend until fully combined.

• Add 1/4 cup mixed berries, pureeing until smoothcombined with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.

• Apply mixture to your clean, dry face. Let the mask sit 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse face thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.

DIY Vegan Toothpaste

Most commercial toothpastes have glycerin in them which can help maintain the product’s texture, but unless it is listed specifically as vegetable glycerin, it is from animal origin. If you are in search of a vegan toothpaste just make your own, that contains glycerin, try this.

2 teaspoons vegetable glycerin

4 tablespoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon guar gum

8 tablespoons water

5 drops peppermint, clove, or citrus pure essential oil

Dr. Scott R. Walker, a Dentist in Beaverton tells his patients to avoid sugar and try to use all natural products. It will help you feel better and you will smile more.

Written by Shannon Kaiser