Eco-Vegan Sex

Here are some fun, eco-vegan ways to green your sex life.

• For all things sexy and vegan, check out The Sensual Vegan
• Buy vegan condoms. They're hard to find in stores, but available online. Glyde condoms are easier to find, but Condomi (from the UK) has more variety and you can find them at British Condoms.
• Use vegan (and glycerin free for the ladies) lubricant. There are several brands out there. Try Sliquid or Good Clean Love
• Recycle your sex toys through Dreamscapes and get a $10 coupon for your next purchase!

Master Cleanse: Day 10 - Last Day of Lemonade!

I made it to Day 10!

This morning I woke up at 6:30 and finally used the bathroom, which was a relief. I forgot to take the laxative tea last night, but the salt water flush must have done the trick. It's strange, but last time I did the cleanse the salt water would take effect within 30 minutes, but this time it's very delayed.

I haven't been very hungry and it's really tough getting myself to drink the lemonade. I'm also getting pretty sick of the taste, so that's makes it tough too. I think of it more as a necessary task that I need to do to curb my occasional hunger, but I really should be drinking a lot more. I actually feel quite full and hydrated, so I don't even want much water.

I'm really looking forward to the soups and juices on Day 12, but it will be nice to drink orange juice tomorrow. I bought a bag of oranges from the Farmer's Market and will juice them tonight. I'm most excited about eating a salad on Day 13! I plan to have my favorite raw salad from Euphoria Loves Rawvolution - their Cafe Salad is killer. I really want to stick to raw foods and salads for a while, but July 4th might be a brief exception. I'll have to hit up Leaf Cuisine - they also have great salads and collard green wraps. Stay tuned for a bunch of raw and salad video reviews!

I forgot to mention that I started using fresh squeezed lemon juice on Friday and it tastes much better than the organic juice from the bottle.

QuarryGirl's Undercover Investigation of Vegan Restaurants

Yesterday, Quarrygirl.com posted an incredible, eye-opening blog post documenting a investigation of vegan restaurants in Los Angeles. You MUST read it if you ever eat at vegan places in L.A. - it is very impressive and some of the results are disturbing. The team found that many so-called vegan restaurants have products on their menu that contain casein, egg, and/or shellfish! Unbelievable. Hopefully this report will bring on a change. 

Eco-Friendly Hair Dryer

My trusty hair dryer of 9 years broke this weekend and I was bummed. It was a great dryer - very compact (it folded up for travel and storage) and I literally took it all over the world with me.

But alas, it's time to replace it, and I'm looking into eco-friendly options of course.

In my research so far, these seem to be the top contenders:

• BarBar ECO-8000 (comes up in almost every search I do) - "will save you approximately 90% of your time drying your hair" - $100 - $150
• "Go Green" by Rusk - "made of 100% recycled materials and the company even printed this dryer in soy ink...eco-friendly cord", "the iron's plates are Petroleum-free so they help to reduce oil consumption in their production" and comes in eco-friendly packaging- $135
• Elchim 5000 Da Vinci Ionic Plus 2000 Watt - $130-$200 - dries fast and has filter cleaning system, made with eco-friendly materials
• iTech Tourmaline Hair Dryer - "contains tourmaline, which helps to dry your much hair faster than a traditional hair dryer so it consumes less energy." - $200
• Conair 250 Eco Ionic - "Packaging is 100% post-consumer recyclable material, and uses all soy-based inks, up to 64% less plastic and less packaging material. Uses 25% less energy while still providing the same efficiency as an 1875-watt dryer" - $30

I'm drawn to the Go Green, but do I want to spend $135 on a hair dryer?!

However, I think the winner is BaByliss Eco Dry it's only $50 (including shipping from UK to USA) on www.ethicalsuperstore.com. I'll give it a few days of pondering before I buy it, but it looks like a perfect fit for me: cheap, small/travel-friendly, energy efficient, and eco-friendly packaging.

Why don't I just air dry my hair? That's what I've been doing for the past couple days and I hate the way it looks. My hair gets frizzy and then flat, and it feels heavier. I'll give it a shot until I find my next dryer, and maybe I'll change my mind.

Master Cleanse: Day 9

I planned to come off the lemonade and start drinking the OJ today, but I wasn't ready to stop! I feel so good - I feel like I could go for several more days easily. This is not how I felt the previous times I did the cleanse, so it's pretty exciting.

I haven't been very interested in drinking the lemonade. I don't feel hungry at all. I can barely finish one bottle (3 cups) in a day! And I don't feel weak or tired.

I got on the scale and I lost at least 7 pounds, which is almost 1lb a day! Too bad most of it will come back!

I drank the salt water this morning but it hasn't resulted in anything. I'm a little nervous because I didn't do it all weekend, nor have I had the laxative tea since Thursday night. I just didn't want to deal with an upset stomach during my movie shoot. But now I regret it because I haven't had any movement since Friday! So I'm just going to keep drinking salt water until something happens! I'm afraid I might have major cramps, since it's been so long. I'll keep you posted! ; )

UPDATE: Hours later and still nothing! I'm sure the laxative tea will help tonight.

I was tempted by some corn chips and pasta - exactly what I shouldn't be eating! It's going to be a challenge coming off this cleanse and trying to avoid foods like that!

Master Cleanse: Days 6 - 8

Sorry I haven't updated my Master Cleanse journey in the past 3 days, but I've been working on my short movie (remember, I'm also a filmmaker!) However, doing this movie is not only the reason for the cleanse but also the reason for its success. I did the cleanse to help get me physically slim and emotionally drained for my role in the movie. And because of all my focus on the project, not eating has been a breeze. In fact, I barely wanted any of the drink the past 2 days because I've been so focused. As I've said before, timing is everything with the cleanse. You must be fully ready to do it/commit to it, and you also need to pick the right time in your schedule. This experience has been successful for me because my days have been very busy and distracting, and I also haven't been around a lot of people eating.

Master Cleanse: Day 5

Today went very smoothly - nothing new or exciting happened. 

For some reason the salt water flush hasn't been effective, but after drinking Chocolate Smooth Move around 11pm I wake up needing to use the bathroom around 6:30 or 7am like clockwork. 

I'm definitely sad that I "can't" eat, but it's still more about missing tastes and texture than feeling starved. I feel hungry now and then, but a few gulps of the lemonade curb that right away. 

It's funny how just seeing a food word, like beans, makes me want it so bad. 

I was thinking of stopping tonight and starting the OJ tomorrow, but I think I'm going to go until Sunday night (which will be Day 8). Maybe by that point I'll want to go until Day 10 (Tuesday), but I want to be ready to eat some solid foods for July 4th (Saturday). 

If you plan to do the Master Cleanse it definitely helps to do it during a busy period of your life. This time has been much easier, since I've been working full days and haven't had any down time. I also recommend doing it at a time when you don't have any plans for get-togethers/parties, special events, holidays, etc. You don't want all the temptation of food around, and you don't want to rush out of it either. 

This morning I woke up and felt and saw a significant difference in my body - my stomach is a lot flatter. My face has also trimmed down and I've been told my skin looks great. This is probably the worst part of doing the cleanse, because these results are not permanent. Maybe the weight will stay off for a little bit, but it will eventually come back, especially if you revert to your previous eating habits. 

The cleanse is mainly a mental challenge. Your body feels great and not very hungry, but your mind can play tricks on you. You'll crave food and feel tempted to give in. It's definitely boring drinking the lemonade day in day out too. But the goal is to give in to the cleanse and let go of your emotional ties to food. Another goal is to recognize your feelings about food and learn to change your negative eating habits. Every time you feel tempted to eat, think about what you want and why, and how it effects your body. If you start craving really healthy food then that's a great sign! By the time the cleanse is over you'll be happy to eat anything, so start new habits right away, and you'll realize how much better you feel.

Master Cleanse: Day 4

Feeling great again today! Tons of energy, feeling at least 100%.

Last night I had a few moments of feeling hungry, but a few gulps of lemonade and I was ok. It also helps that I've been really busy.

I had my Chocolate Smooth Move last night and woke up this morning at 6:30am with cramps, but nothing came out.

I had a busy morning and wasn't able to do the salt water until 12:30, and an hour later no "result", just a bit of a stomach ache for a moment.

Haven't felt hungry yet today, but I was a little jealous when I saw my coworker eating pasta. Seeing and smelling food is tough, but once it's gone I don't even think about it.

"The Scoop on Dog Poop"

This is a great article. I find that many people aren't aware how important it is to properly pick up after your dog (or cat). Don't use plastic bags to pick up! I highly recommend BioBags - you can find them at most natural food stores, including Whole Foods. I also recently discovered the Skooperbox, which is really neat and makes picking up after dogs less yucky.

Here's another great article on How to be a Greener Pet Owner.

Master Cleanse: Day 3

I feel GREAT today! Full of energy, very clear thoughts, and in a great mood.

I know the whole idea of the Master Cleanse is debatable, as far as whether it's safe/healthy or effective, but I really enjoy it. I've read a lot about it and know many people who have done it, and this is my third time. Sure, "starving" oneself isn't an ideal situation, but since it's for such a short amount of time and I'm still drinking calories I feel OK about it. And if you're in tune with your body and how you feel, you will know when enough is enough.

It's really fascinating to pay attention to how I feel about food, what triggers I have to eat. I've noticed that I don't really eat out of hunger or nutrition, but more for taste/pleasure. I'm really drawn to unhealthy foods. I never want to eat salads, fresh fruits, or vegetables - instead I am drawn to processed foods that lack a lot of nutrition. So my goal is to refocus myself during this cleanse so that when it's over I begin eating healthier. = )

Here are all the details of what I've been experiencing, if you have any interest!

• Last night there was a lot of build-up in my mouth - I couldn't wait to get home and brush my teeth and scrape my tongue!
• I woke up this morning at 7am with what felt like menstrual cramps, but really I just had to go to the bathroom. I was really nervous, fearing I would be in pain for a while. But it was very brief, and then I went back to bed. The Chocolate Smooth Move I drank last night did the trick!
• My stomach is much flatter - I wish this was permanent! But that's motivating me to eat healthier afterwards: more raw foods, and get back into yoga.
• When I got to work I drank 3 cups of salt water and that worked it's way out about 30 minutes later.

Master Cleanse: Day 2

I'm feeling good, but I'm definitely feeling different. The best way to describe it is "fuzzy", almost like a caffeine high - my body is in a little shock that I'm not eating, and the detox is beginning. I can think pretty clearly, but my thoughts a little delayed.

My appetite is pretty low - I'm really not interested in drinking the lemonade. However, I have a ton of cravings. Every-time I see food I instantly want it, regardless of what it is - but I don't feel hungry, it's just my taste buds. It's kind of a relief to not be allowed to eat, because all the things I'm craving are "bad": pasta, bread, sugar. Normally I would just give in and eat them anyways, and now I'm so glad to have that under control.

The salt water flush hasn't worked at all, except I have a little bit of a stomach ache. I'm definitely a little "stopped up" - another sign that I should be doing this cleanse!

I'm already feeling "lighter" - my body feels good, not weighed down with "bad" foods. I look forward to eating raw foods when this is over! I plan to make some raw soups from my Euphoria recipe book - yum!

Master Cleanse

Every once in a while I feel the need to do a cleanse, or to eat entirely raw. I wish I ate raw more often, but I find it quite challenging. In fact, I find the entire eating process pretty emotionally challenging. As you know from this blog I love eating, but I've always struggled with food. Is it good for me or bad for me? Is there too much sugar or carbs in it? Am I eating too much of this? Am I spending too much money? Is it contained in too much packaging? Etc. etc. 

So every once in a while I need a break from all of that over-thinking, and thus I begin either a cleanse or eating raw. It's a really wonderful way to give both my body and mind a rest.

Today I decided to do the Master Cleanse (again). I've done it a few times in the past and had amazing experiences. I love not worrying about what I'm going to eat, when, and how much it's going to cost. I love the way my body feels - very euphoric. I love the physical experience of cleansing, although the cramps aren't very fun. And it's quite an interesting mental/emotional journey - it's an interesting exercise in control, and very fascinating to watch the eating habits of others from afar.

The last time I did the Master Cleanse there wasn't a lot of information available on the internet. I didn't want to buy the official guide, so I just found my way via various websites. I discovered today that there is now a great website: themastercleanse.org, and there's even a Twitter page!

I've never been able to really determine how healthy the cleanse is, all I know is that it's popular (at least in L.A.) and I know many people who have done it safety and successfully. I also have never been sick or weak from it. It's definitely a controversial topic.

Here are my thoughts for my first day:

• I forgot about the salt water flush and laxative teas - I have to say both are slightly unpleasant, but they're a big part of the process. Let me tell you, it's all about timing with those. I'm glad I don't have any plans for the week!
  
• I've never used "fresh" lemon juice - as in, I haven't juiced lemons daily. I might this time, now that I have a juicer. I find using Santa Cruz Organic Lemon Juice works well, and is convenient. 
• I found success in drinking the salt water flush in the morning, and a laxative tea at night (a few hours before bed). I really looked forward to Chocolate Smooth Move with a touch of agave nectar - it was like dessert!

Eco-Vegan Events in Los Angeles: Sunday June 21st

(These events are from 2009)


There are 2 great events happening tomorrow in L.A. - unfortunately I can't go to either because I have to work!

10am - 8pm: Vegan Earth Day. Free admission.

12 - 3pm: O!Burger is celebrating their one year anniversary. 15% off your meal, plus all sorts of free stuff.

Plum Market review: Ann Arbor, Michigan

Arbor Brewing Company review: Ann Arbor, Michigan

SunPower Natural Cafe - video review

I had a great time at SunPower Natural Cafe last weekend - check out this review and stay tuned for the video interview with Ronald! And thanks to my composer Don Bodin for joining me and doing the videography!

Ann Arbor, Michigan Trip: vegan options?

Does anyone have any great vegan recommendations for Ann Arbor?

So far this is what I've found:

• Seva
• Earthen Jar
• Chia Shang - "Has vegetarian and vegan choices featuring seitan and tofu, vegan chicken and beef, soybean skin rolls, tofu, veggies. Try the hot and sour soup (vegan)"
• Blue Nile (Ethiopian)
  
• Amer's Deli - "has tasty vegan sandwiches, such as the Lindsey's True Grazer, which comes with heaps of hummus, avocado, cucumbers, tomatoes, sprouts, and lettuce and is served on whole-wheat bread."
  
• Big Ten Burrito's - "$3 vegan plate, which is loaded with black beans, pinto beans, rice, guacamole, and fresh salsa"
  
• Big City Small World Bakery - vegan ding-dongs, cakes, and cookies
  
• People's Food Co-Op - has a fair-trade coffee shop offering vegan pastries.
  

Ann Arbor, Michigan Trip: eco-friendly taxi to the airport

I've leaving for Ann Arbor tomorrow and I'm taking Santa Monica Green Taxi to LAX. It's $26 from Venice, and I'm very excited about it! 

I tried Taxi Taxi, but they don't service Venice. = (

Anyone else know of a good eco-friendly taxi service that serves all of L.A.? 

The Goode Family

A friend of mine works on a new ABC animated show called The Goode Family, by the creators of King of the Hill. And guess what - it's about a vegan, eco-friendly family!!! "They're zealous vegans, they drive a hybrid, and they recycle everything possible". Wow. If I had TV I'd watch this show all the time, but I'm going to catch up online. Check it out!

UPDATE: I've watched 4 episodes of this show and I'm hooked! I hope it doesn't get cancelled!! 

Hiatus

I want to apologize for my lack of blogging in the past week. I have been incredibly busy and therefore drained. I haven't even been on Twitter! (oh the horror!)

I am working on a short film (writing, directing, acting, editing), so the next few weeks will be very hectic for me. 

However, I have tried some delicious new items that I am excited to talk about. And stayed tuned for my video review and interview with Ronald from SunPower Natural Cafe!

CNN: Floating garbage dump

Subway - vegan items listed first in FAQ section

I was really impressed with Subway when I went on their site to find out what vegan options they had. It wasn't listed in the nutrition section and I couldn't find a ingredient list, however I was thrilled to see that they had information about their vegan options in their FAQ section:

Do your breads contain animal products?
Subway® Italian bread contains no animal-derived ingredients. The 9-grain wheat bread contains honey, which may be considered an animal-derived ingredient. The Flatbread and cheese-topped breads do contain milk-derived ingredients.

What menu items at SUBWAY® restaurants are vegan/do not contain animal-derived ingredients?
The menu items that do not contain any animal-derived ingredients are the Veggie Delite® on Italian bread and the Veggie Delite® salad. Also these individual items also do not contain animal-derived ingredients: all vegetables, oil, vinegar, mustard, sweet onion sauce and fruizle. The 9-grain wheat bread contains honey but no other animal-derived ingredients.

Invitation to Marrakesh House Grand Opening

Chris Paine, director of Who Killed the Electric Car, would like to extend his invitation to all my readers to a special event in Culver City this Saturday.

Chris just completed a remodel of a 1950s
hillside home in Culver City. The result is "Marrakesh House" a green
residence and entertainment space that mixes mid-century modern
architecture with Moroccan design.

The house has a lot of cool features including a solar powered
electric car garage and plenty of indoor/outdoor space. To celebrate
the completion, he's planning a Grand Opening Benefit Party on June
6th and he'd love you to be here.

Some incredible musicians and dancers are going to join including
the incomparable Ben Lee, Middle Eastern fusion band Danvayaad, world
electronica group Naked Rhythm and live animals from the Wildlife
Learning Center. He's chosen a group of local organizations to
receive any profits from his weekend launch.

If you want to join the fun, buy a ticket asap, as they are likely to
sell out. They can't add more tickets later because the space only
holds so many people.

Here's a link to the ticket site and a copy of the invitation below:

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/57205

Twitter links: June 1st

@planetgreen: Would You Fall for an Eco-Myth? (I only scored 50% right!)

@supereco: 20 worst food additives