Why You should Be Considering Sea Moss as a part of Your Daily Diet!

Hey Babes!


I hope all is well with my readers, fans, and nay-sayers!:-) 😁😁😎 I do apologize for the long gap in my blog posts; however, life gets in the way sometimes! ANYWHO...I was thinking of a juicy topic I could write about....and the first topic that came to mind was sea moss! Let me tell you about this "diamond in the rough," and why you should be fittin' it in your diet on a daily basis!


Sometimes I feel like I'm the most annoying, hated person on social media! People constantly label me as a conspiracy theorist, a "preacher," or a "know-it-all!" I can SMELL when folks are coming for me!👃😂 I'm just trying to keep y'all up on game!! Because in case you haven't noticed around you, there's a lot of people that are chronically ill, have been diagnosed with cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc....and what's more alarming is that they are fairly young people!! That being said, I read. And I read A LOT. I wanted to be a blogger to get the info out there, because a lot of us just "don't know....don't show...or don't care about what's going on in the"--- sorry, wrong quote! (My mind drifted to the "Boyz N The Hood movie.)" 😂😂😂


SEA MOSS. Okay....I've been reading about sea moss for about a year now. Dr. Sebi (God bless his soul) praised sea moss....and chy....I try to follow Dr. Sebi's nutritional guide and listen to his YouTube videos whenever possible. So what exactly IS sea moss?

Where Does It Come From?
Sea moss (commonly called Irish Moss or 'chondrus crispus') is a species of red algae and it grows in abundance along the rocky parts of the Atlantic Coast of Europe and also North America, particularly along the coastal regions of the Carribean Islands). It has a subtle smell of the sea, but it doesn't overpower you. It doesn't have a taste (at least I don't think it does). And when you make it into a gel, it has the texture of apple sauce.




"What it Look Like?"👀
It looks...."mossy!" Looks like some shit that comes out of the swamp. 😂 But babeeee, that mossy stuff is PACKED with nutrients! It is said that sea moss has 92 of the 102 vital minerals/vitamins your body needs to stay healthy! That's right....92!! So it can't hurt to try it! I always get my sea moss from Mother Nature Holistic Health, LLC! They are the bomb! Check out their website for health and wellness needs here.

There are soooo many things you can do with sea moss (i.e., make homemade lotions to treat eczema), but I make it into a gel, and take it as a dietary supplement daily.  If you don't want to make it yourself, I have a friend that also makes the sea moss gel and the lotions for you, so you don't have to! Check out her website here!


How to Make Sea Moss Gel
Me, personally, I like to soak my sea moss in distilled water overnight (like the picture above). The next morning, you rinse off the sea moss until the water is clear (and to rinse excess dirt and salt away). Once I'm done rinsing it, for every cup of sea moss, I add like a 1/2 cup of distilled water to the mix, and then blend it (in a Vitamix or Nutribullet) until it's smooth and creamy. It can last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator and up to a year if you freeze it. There are many ways to make the gel though (you can also boil it), so I guess it depends on how you want to do it. Read the instructions though!!😂 Don't follow me up, because I like my sea moss gel chunky like apple sauce! LOL!


I Saved the Best for Last...the Benefits!
Taking sea moss daily can do wonders for your health! It is said to boost your immunity (preventing you from getting colds or the flu), because it works to dissolve mucus in your body. It is rich in amino acids, vitamin C, antioxidants, and has antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Most importantly, sea moss is loaded with iodine, which is what your thyroid needs to function properly. Sea moss can boost and improve energy levels, improves circulation, and treats skin disorders, such as eczema....so what you waitin' on? 👀 You NEED to go cop that sea moss!


That's it for me...Sis is tired. Sis is hungry. And Sis needs to go work out!😂


Stay healthy, my friends! I love us for real!


-The Vegan World Traveler

The Slutty Vegan: My "One Night Stand" Experience in the ATL!

What's good, y'all! I've been super busy these last few weeks, but never too busy for my readers! My college homecoming in South Carolina was last weekend, and this week I had a project to work on in Atlanta for my employer. Atlanta is one of my favorite cities, and BABY-they have some of the best vegan restaurants in town!

Eat Plants B**ch!
Soooo....I kept hearing from my Atlantan friends about this place called "The Slutty Vegan." Well, it's not a place, per se, but more so a food truck. I was like, "Nah, I've never been there." They kept saying, "The food is really good, you should try it!" I kept putting it off. And I've been to Atlanta several times since I was recommended to try it. No biggie. Vegan food is becoming more readily available, so I had time. This particular week, I made time to go find this damn food truck because I follow them on Instagram! The food truck is in a different location in the Atlanta area every night (they are open typically from 7pm-midnight; or whenever they sell out of food).  I made it a point to try out this place and see what all the rah-rah was about!

Wayment....how long did you say you stood in line?
My friend Risa and I found the location of where the Slutty Vegan was (Howell Mill Rd, at the Atlanta Food Truck location). It was TURNT out there! LOL. It was almost like an outside restaurant....picnic tables, neo-soul music, a lemonade stand....it was just a vibe. And I was there for it! That line though....let's talk about that line! LOL. So the line was wrapped around the corner. No lie! I heard the food was the bomb.com, so that made me even more curious! This girl and her male friend rolled up behind us and asked how long had we been standing in line....I said, "Ummmm...about 10 minutes." This was on a Tuesday night, y'all. The girl said, "Oh....because I came here last week, and I stood in line for about 3 hours...I can't do that tonight though. But that food was worth it!" "Say what, ni? "😂😂 She was not kidding! I made us a promise that we'd stand in line an hour tops. I was working in Alpharetta the next morning and it was already almost 9pm. I was getting sleepy too. But guess what? We stayed in line for about 55 minutes.  AND there's a 2-burger maximum per person. I can dig it! They probably want every person in line to get an opportunity to taste the burger and get the full slut-bucket experience! LOL

"One Night Stand" me, please! 😂😂
Based on their menu on Instagram, they featured 3 burgers that night: the "One Night Stand," the "Sloppy Toppy", and the "Fussy Hussy." They even have an entrée on the menu called the "Heaux Boy" sandwich! LOL.  I LOVE the concept, by the way! That shit is catchy as hell! I chose the "One Night Stand" vegan bacon cheeseburger. Y'all....that shit tasted JUST like a real bacon cheeseburger! You know how sometimes seitan bacon (vegan bacon) is a hit or miss in taste?? Not this time! LOL. That burger was ON POINT! I know I say that a lot, but it tasted like a burger burger! 😂😂👀😋😋😋

The Long Line Was Worth the Wait!
If you're in the ATL, maaaaan, you gotta try the Slutty Vegan!! I'm telling you, it's worth the wait in line! I'm definitely going back to be a "slut" and try the other items on the menu! Haha...The link to their website is:
www.sluttyveganatl.com


Check it out, you won't be disappointed!

Welp, that's it for me, Treena V. is signing off. It's approaching the holiday season, and people are out here getting sick, so take care of yourselves! Stay healthy, my friends! I love us for real!


-The Vegan World Traveler

All Toilet Paper Is Not Created Equal: How the Booty You Save Might Be Your Own!

What's up, Babies! It's been a couple of weeks since I've posted, but I'm back on it!! This blog topic might sound silly as hell, but it's near and dear to my heart. I know many of you use toilet paper favorites like Charmin, Cottonelle, Scott's, etc. Oh man, I used to love me some Charmin....and then I found out that although Charmin is soft for your ass, it's hard on your health! Ugh, I hate to be a "Debbie Downer," but read on, my Dear....read on!


Is she really writing about toilet paper?
Yep!! Have you ever stopped to think about the toilet paper that you wipe your ass with several times a day? We were brainwashed to believe that in order for something to be clean, it must be "white." Nah, man!! That's far from the truth. Our skin and sexual organs come in contact with toilet paper several times a day, at least twenty times a week (I HOPE so, my G 🙈😟😂) , and probably several thousand times over a lifetime! That's a lot of ass-wiping😂....why is this so important? Keep reading....


What chemicals are in the toilet paper that you love?

• When I started researching the ingredients in the products I was using, I'm not gonna lie, I was horrified. Chlorine bleach is one of the main ingredients they put in toilet paper. Chlorine bleach creates dangerous toxins (dioxin, for example), and it can cause serious health issues in your body.
• Formaldehyde is also found in most well-known toilet papers. Formaldehyde is a chemical in the Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs) family and gives off gasses into the air. It is also toxic to the body. And here we are, wiping our asses with it every day. Formaldehyde has been known to contribute to the growth of fibroids, cysts, and other health issues.
• Chlorodibenzofurans (CDFs) is a group of chemicals that affect the nervous system, the respiratory system, and can cause skin and eye irritations. And yep, it is found in paper towels and toilet paper.  This is just to name a few of the harmful chemicals found in toilet paper. Trust me, there are several more!

If you don't think that exposing your skin to this chemical-filled paper will not affect your health over time, think again! BUT--I do have some healthier alternatives that I use and will mention in this blog post below. I gotcha, baby!


Healthier Alternatives
Below are some alternatives you can use that are non-toxic and are not bleached with chlorine. Click on the links below for more information or to order:


Seventh Generation Natural Unbleached Toilet Paper

I've been using this product for about two years and I love it! It's brown (not your typical white bleached paper), and it does NOT contain chlorine. It is also made with recycled paper.
Caboo- Bamboo Non-Chlorine Toilet Paper

Caboo Bamboo tissue is another brand that I use. If you like strong tissue that is not too soft, this is the one for you! It's 100%  recyclable so you're saving the trees, and it does not contain the harmful toxins that can be detrimental to your health. Click on the link above and check it out!
WholeRoll Organic Toilet Paper

Now, I haven't used WholeRoll toilet paper before, but I've heard good reviews about it. It's organic, unbleached, all natural (no toxic chemicals), and promotes healthy skin! Can't beat that with a bat! I will order some and let you know how I like it! And if you've used it before, tell me what you think about it!

Everything we touch and put on our skin affects us....from the detergents we use (including dish detergent), the cleaning products, and yes--toilet paper. So not only do we have to watch what we put into our bodies; we must also be mindful of what we put on our bodies too! No, we can't live our life in fear; nor can we escape everything that is harmful to us...but we can take a step in the right direction for our health's sake and make a difference, one wipe at a time! 😂😂


Welp, that's it for me, Treena V. is signing off. If you've used any of these products or just have a question, please leave me a comment below. I'd love to hear your feedback! Stay healthy, my friends! I love us for real!


Signed,
-The Vegan World Traveler

Beyond Meat Plant-Based Sausage....I got the 411!!

Alright so boom! I haven't eaten pork or beef in 6 years. Well...it will be six years in November.  Although I wasn't a big breakfast eater growing up, when I did eat breakfast, I ate a pork sausage (particularly Roger Wood), and bacon...with grits. That was staple breakfast in the black family! At least in the South it was! LOL. Anyway...I've been far removed from the pig, so I wasn't checking for any mock meats that tasted like it. But I kept hearing about this plant-based sausage called "Beyond Sausage." Now, I tasted the Beyond Meat "meatless" burgers...and if I do say so myself....they are delicious!! But I kept hearing that these plant-based sausages were selling out as soon as they hit the grocery store! Word? All the more reason for me to try them....

Wholefoods--The Only Store I know that Has Them!

Every time I went to Wholefoods, the "Beyond Sausage" sausages would always be sold out! I mean always, my G! I kept saying, they can't be all of that, now! 😂😂 So I kinda just forgot about'em. Fast forward to Monday...I went to a different/newer Wholefoods in Charlotte and I walked right past them shits!! 😂👀👀 I asked the store clerk did they have anymore in the back. He said, "yeah, I can package some up for you. We can't seem to keep'em up front. They sell out really fast! How many do you want?" I was like, "2 packs!" I couldn't wait to get home to slap them in the cast iron frying pan! lol

You Don't Need Cooking Oil

They literally make their own grease (oil) as you fry them..just like a Roger Wood sausage." Shit was kinda scary! 😂 It literally smells and cooks just like a Roger Wood sausage!

Each Sausage has 16g of Protein!

So when a carnivore asks you "how are you getting your protein?, " you can shut'em up real quick! lol

It's Soy-Free

This is a plus for me! There have been conflicting opinions on the health benefits of soy; however, I've read more material that suggests not ingesting it (and if you do, keep it at a minimum).

No Cholesterol

I can imagine, if you replaced real sausage with these, your cholesterol would go down dramatically. That's just my two cents though.

Cooking my sausage with sauteed mushrooms and onion!

Lastly, it tastes just like a damn Roger Wood!

No fuckin' way...I looked at that damn sausage so many times y'all!! 😂😂😂 What the hell am I really eating?? This ain't no plant-based sausage! Bahaha! I mean, that's how good it tasted! I wasn't convinced that it was plant-based. To the employees at Beyond Meat--We don't believe you, you need more people!😂

I had a few people tell me that they tried these sausages, and are now hooked! Have you tried these? I want to hear from you! Leave a comment and tell me what you think about them. Well, that's it for me. Treena V. is signing off. Stay healthy, my friends! I love us for real!

-The Vegan World Traveler

Product Crush Friday: Three Products I'm Crushing On That Detoxify the Body!

Hey y'all! It's been a couple of weeks since I last posted (life got in the way--you know how that is!), but I'm back on it! I'm always looking for simple ways to detoxify my body (we come in contact with soooo many toxins and chemicals every day), so I started doing a little research. The biggest misconception I hear about detoxing is that you have to do some over-the-top detox program where you're cutting out solid foods, a smoothie-only detox (**yawns**), or something like that. While those are true ways to detoxify your body, those are not the only ways. Below are three products that work to detoxify the body that I'm absolutely crushing on right now!


Product #1: Activated Charcoal Toothpaste (with Coconut Oil and bentonite clay).

I've seen commercials on this and I just wanted to try it!! And when I brushed my teeth with it, I looked like one of them damn zombies from Michael Jackson's "Thriller" video!!😭😭 It really is black!! Check out the pros and cons below though!

Benefits

1. It detoxifies your mouth.  Brushing with activated charcoal pulls toxins from your mouth and kills those nasty germs in there!
2. It whitens your teeth!  I was sold on that! I stopped using whitening strips years ago because  of the chemicals and the fact that it messes with the enamel on your teeth. I can use this in conjunction with oil pulling!
3. It improves bad breath! So if you have the "yuck mouth," you might want to try this!
4. It lifts hefty stains from your teeth! If you're a smoker or a coffee drinker (like me), GET.👏 IN. 👏HERE!!!👏😭😭

Cons

1. You shouldn't brush with it everyday. Matter of fact, you should only brush with it with once every couple of weeks! It can be abrasive on the enamel of your teeth as well (however, unlike whitening strips, it is all-natural and has added health benefits).
2. Don't go throwing out your regular toothpaste! Studies have shown that folks need fluoride (which this particular brand does not have) to prevent tooth decay.
3. Don't brush too hard. Because of the abrasiveness of the ingredients, try not to brush too hard (and in a circular motion). 

Click here to check out some activated charcoal toothpaste products!

Product #2 Bentonite Clay. Bentonite Clay consists of volcanish ash called "montmorillonite." Unlike other clays (like that orange clay we grew up on in the South), it doesn't stain countertops or clothes. It has a high concentration of minerals such as: silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, and potassium.

Benefits

1. You guessed it! It detoxifies the body! When bentonite clay comes in contact with a toxin, chemical, or heavy metal (such as aluminum, mercury, etc.) the clay will absorb the toxin and release its minerals for the body to use. This clay also helps get oxygen to cells. Adding 1/4 of bentonite clay to your bath water is an easy and relaxing way to detoxify the body!
2. When taken orally, it helps with digestive problems such as acid reflux, constipation and bloating. Taking 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in a glass of water improves digestion!
3. Promotes Healthier skin and helps with allergy issues. Studies have shown that the minerals in bentonite clay promotes healthier skin, softens skin, and helps with allergies.

It was kind of pricey in Earth Fare, but click here to purchase a good brand of bentonite clay!

Product #3- Hemp/CBD Oil (Cannabis Sativa)😎😎

Now, I wasn't too familiar with Hemp/CBD oil, but I've heard nothing but good things about it! I tried it last night for the first time, and BABY, I was relaxed!!! 😭😭 The benefits are endless for this stuff:
Benefits:

1. It supports the immune system. The fatty acids in hemp seed oil have been shown to promote healthy flora in the intestines and support immune system response and function.
2. It relaxes the hell out you. Oh yeah! It improves mood, and reduces anxiety. I felt like Lil Duval after about an hour! "I'm living my best life!"😭😭
3. Balances your hormones. Hemp oil is rich in gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), an Omega 6 fatty acid. Studies have shown that GLA helps balance hormones.
4. It is perfectly legal. Yep! Bought that Cannibis Sativa right off the shelf at Earth Fare, ya dig! LOL
5. Good for heart health. Hemp oil also supports heart health and promotes cardiovascular function.
6. Great for your brain! Hemp oil contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is essential for brain development. DHA is also crucial to the health of the brain and also the retina of the eye.
7. Naturally Reduces Inflammation. Yep! Studies have shown that hemp/CBD oil is naturally anti-flammatory. All of that in one bottle!

Click here to check out some hemp oil products!

Welp, that's it for me folks. I'm "tide"(for you non-slang folks, that means "tired")....😭😭. If you're a dentist or work in the dental field, I want to hear from you!! Let me know your thoughts on the activated charcoal toothpaste. I don't know if it's just me, but my teeth feel grrreeeat!! Stay healthy, my friends! I love us for real!


-The Vegan World Traveler

The Impossible Burger--Tastes so Good, I Can't Believe It's Not Meat!!

So check it-- I was home, chillaxin' on a Saturday, and I hadn't eaten all day. And lately, I've been killin' vegan processed food!  I don't know why, but the last few weeks I have. I need to do better. Anywho--I was trying to find a place in town (Charlotte, NC) where I could grab food. I had heard that Duckworth's Grill and Taphouse had a new burger on their menu with a vegan option. It was called "the Impossible Burger." Uh-huh...okay. Initially, I wasn't impressed because I have been vegan for quite some time now (next month will be two years), and I've had some really good vegan burgers. But I wanted something different, so I figured I'd give it a shot.

The Impossible Burger...What's In It?
The good news? The Impossible Burger has a lot of vitamins in it: Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Thiamin (Vitamin B1), Zinc, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin B12. The bad news? It has soy in it. There are different opinions out there on the world wide web about soy or soybeans. In my opinion, soy is not good for you, but there have been claims that it is.  Other ingredients are: Water, Textured Wheat Protein, Coconut Oil, Potato Protein, Natural Flavors, 2% or less of: Leghemoglobin (Soy), Yeast Extract, Salt, Konjac Gum, Xanthan Gum, Soy Protein Isolate. Check out more information about the Impossible Burger here.

The Taste...
So I ordered the Impossible Burger, no mayo (the mayo is vegetarian), with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle (it didn't come with cheese). I also ordered the french fries. It was smelling so good, but I decided to wait until I got home to eat it. Baaaaaaybeeeee!!!😂 I got home...and I tasted that burger!! I had to keep looking at the burger....did they give me the wrong damn burger??? I kept looking at the receipt, because surely, I was eating meat!!! Yes! It tasted JUST like meat. I couldn't believe it! Now, I've had some vegan burgers that tasted a lot like meat, but not like this! Yeah, I know I said I don't believe that soy is good for you, but all that shit went out the window when I was eating that! It had the texture and the seasoning of a beef burger! Hey, love me with my all of my flaws! 😂😂😃 I know me...and I know that I will be killing that about 2 or 3 more times within the next week!! LOL

Where Can You Get The Impossible Burger?
The Impossible Burger was created in California, so it's slowly starting to pop up in restaurants across the U.S. If you live in Charlotte, NC or surrounding areas, you can go to Duckworth's Grill and Taphouse and enjoy it! Also, you can find the Impossible Burger at the Umami Burger restaurant in Anaheim, Los Angeles, and Cosa Mesa CA. The Impossible Burger is also available at Hopdoddy Burger Bar in Austin, Dallas, and Houston TX. Check back on this link to get updates as to when this burger will be available near you! The way this burger tastes though, it won't be long! HA!

Welp, that's it for me. I HAD to blog about my new favorite burger right quick. Shout out to Duckworth's Grill and Taphouse---y'all are the real MVPs! 😂😂 Y'all go check them out if you're in Charlotte, NC. Stay healthy my friends! I love us for real!

-The Vegan World Traveler

My experience using the DivaCup...the pros and cons!

My periods have ALWAYS been extremely heavy on the first and second day. Always! And when I was in my teens and twenties, my periods were horrible...I'd have severe cramping, throwing up, sweating...literally bedridden for a couple of days. It was a nightmare. But I don't have those excruciating episodes anymore. The heavy periods, however, stayed around! Not to mention fibroids. I first found out that I had them in my early 30's. Since then, they've grown and have also contributed to my heavy periods.


In the last year or so, the first and second days of my period have become so dreadful, sometimes I don't want to leave the house! I would have to have on an overnight pad AND a tampon inserted for added protection. And even then, I'd have to change every couple of hours (or I'd have an accident)! Fast forward to a week ago. I was taking a road trip to New York. I was torn though...I knew that my period was due on the day of the trip. I KNOW my flow. I was like "Treena, are you really going to do this to yourself?" But I really wanted to go, y'all. Desperate acts call for desperate measures! I was thinking to myself, "What could I use for added protection??" The green light goes off in my head. Enters the DivaCup!


What in the world is a Diva Cup?
It's just a fancy name for a menstrual cup. You insert this cup into your vagina and it absorbs your menstrual flow.  It works kinda like a tampon (but bigger). It's reusable and can last up to 12 hours without any leaks.  After I did some research, I found out that the menstrual cup has been around since the 1930's! Who knew?? I sure as hell didn't! HA! The DivaCup is made with silicone and it does not contain latex, PVC, acrylic, BPA, phthalate, polyethylene, and is free of colors and dyes. Silicone is known to be compatible with the human body without giving you an adverse reaction, so that was a plus for me!


There are two models of the DivaCup; models 1 and 2. Model 1 is recommended for women under the age of 30 who have never delivered a baby vaginally or by caesarean.  Model 2 is recommended for women aged 30 and over or for women who have delivered vaginally or by caesarean. Since I'm over 30, I chose the model 2.

"You got to know when to hold'em, know when to fold'em..."- Kenny Rogers 😂

Baby, listen!! I went into the bathroom to put this DivaCup "in there!" 😂 I read the instructions and you basically have to fold it in half before you insert it! You have to make sure that you insert it correctly (the stem should be pointed outward toward the lips of the vagina so that you can pull it out when it's time to change). I was STRUGGLING!! 😂 I tried folding that thing several times, but it would NOT go in there! I called my best friend Risa to get some guidance on this because she has used them before. She suggested that I try inserting while in the bathtub (and have one leg propped up on the side). I didn't listen to her. I decided to try a different route. 😂 I decided to insert while sitting on the toilet. BABY!!!! That did NOT work! 😂😂😂

It's a CRIME scene...😂
So it was back in the bathtub. My heart was beating fast, literally having an anxiety attack! "Issa WHOLE hand" in my vagina....MINE!😂 Trying to put that cup in there! Gee whiz!! 😂 BUT- I finally got it in there! But the bathtub looked like a crime scene! LOL! I'm not kidding! My hand....I just...it was a messy scene! Very messy! I didn't feel it in there, so I guess it was working. I didn't trust it at first, so I put on a maxi pad for added protection. So far so good!!


And then there were cramps...
I didn't feel anything for several hours. By the sixth hour (yes, I counted), I started feeling these horrible cramps! I haven't had cramps during my period since my twenties, so I knew it had something to do with the DivaCup! So we stopped by a restaurant, and I went into the bathroom to check! Six hours into it, the cup was completely full! I'm not sure if the cramps came from the cup being completely full, or maybe I didn't have the cup inserted all the way in there correctly. I wasn't convinced that it would last the full 12 hours anyway, but I was impressed by 6 hours! I will say--there was no leakage on the pad. I was surprised! And there was absolutely no smell. I'm guessing because the menstrual flow is collected from the inside instead of on a maxi pad.  I could be on to something! Click here to get more information or to purchase the DivaCup!

The DivaCup

Rinsing and Re-inserting...what an experience!!
Let me back up for a second....when you change it out, you're supposed to rinse it out before re-inserting. You should wash your hands before and after doing so (you will WANT to) to avoid bacterial infections. The shit was MESSY y'all...super messy!!! BUT- it works!! It really does.


You will get the hang of it! Sort of...
Once you continue to use the DivaCup (inserting, taking it out, rinsing it, re-inserting), you will get the hang of it. I've learned that you have to push it in there far enough so that you won't feel it. However, if you push it in there too far, it is HARD to remove. The second time I tried to remove it to empty it, it took me 15 minutes to get that thing out of there! Rule of thumb, make sure you don't push the stem farther than a 1/2 inch into your vagina. Anything farther, you're gonna have a tough time, buddy! 😂😂😂 The DivaCup box also provides a little pouch that you can store your DivaCup in until the next time. You will want to keep it in there for hygiene purposes!

The DivaCup pouch

I would use the DivaCup Again...
Next month, I'm going to try the DivaCup again (especially on my first and second day)!  Although it didn't last the full 12 hours, I didn't have the annoying experience of changing out maxi pads and tampons every other hour. I was impressed that it lasted 6 hours. Overall, it is healthier because it doesn't have any chemicals or dyes that your average tampon or maxi pad has. ALSO- you can use the DivaCup over and over again (so it's more cost effective than buying disposable pads and tampons)! I could do without the mess, though!😂 Have you tried the DivaCup or would like to try it? Leave a comment and let me know what you think! Here's the link to the DivaCup's website for more information.  Well, that's it for me, Treena V is signing off. Until next time! Have a wonderful day!


-The Vegan World Traveler

10 Phenomenal uses and Health Benefits of Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar

I can remember vividly growing up as a child watching my dad take a tablespoon of vinegar every day to keep his "pressure" down. It smelled disgusting and it damn sure didn't taste good! Yuck! Back then, I was unaware of the health benefits and the many uses it is used for. And trust me--there are A LOT of them! You can get any kind of apple cider vinegar, but I prefer Bragg's. Check out the link here to purchase Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar. Make sure to get the one "with the mother." It is said to be high in acetic acid, and contains strands of proteins, friendly bacteria and enzymes (basically providing more health benefits)! Here are 10 phenomenal uses and health benefits of using apple cider vinegar:

1. Drinking apple cider vinegar daily can regulate your blood pressure. Studies show that apple cider vinegar can lower triglycerides, blood pressure, and cholesterol. This could potentially reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Like I said, my dad took 1 tablespoon per day! Make sure you dilute it with water though (if not, it can potentially affect the enamel on your teeth over time).
2. It can be used as a natural astringent on your face. You can dab diluted apple cider vinegar on a wet washcloth and apply it to your face. Apple cider vinegar has both antiviral and antibacterial properties. Also, applying apple cider vinegar on pimples and cold sores overnight can greatly reduce their appearance.
3. Ladies, it can keep your "cooch" (in other words, the vagina) smelling fresh! 😂 Yep, I said it! One cup of apple cider vinegar in warm bath water gets rid of toxins and bacteria that can cause va-jay-jay odor and also regulates your PH balance and naturally cures bacterial vaginosis. Soak in the tub for 15-20 minutes and you're good to go...I know, right? TMI!😂 Just saying, you don't need to run to the doctor for that!  Drinking a glass of water mixed with one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar also helps!
4. It works as a deodorizer. Have a lingering smell in your house? Just cooked fish? Have cat or dog odor? No problem! Just add a cup of vinegar with a bowl of water and just let it sit in the room where the smell is. The apple cider vinegar neutralizes the odor. Your house may smell "vinegar-y" at first, but that scent will quickly go away!
5. You can use apple cider vinegar as an all-purpose cleaner. Yep! Mix one cup of water with a half a cup of apple cider vinegar, and there's your all-natural, all-purpose cleaner. Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial and antiviral, without all the harsh chemicals of some well-known cleaning products.
6. You can make your own homemade vinaigrette dressing. Yep! I've made this several times. All you need is 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lime or lemon juice, salt and  pepper, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1-2 tablespoons of honey (you can also use cane sugar).
7. Apple cider vinegar gets rid of dandruff.  It really does! Just mix 1/4 cup of water and 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. After shampooing your hair, spray on your scalp and let sit for about 15-20 minutes (then rinse). Use twice a week for maximum results!
8. Apple cider vinegar regulates blood sugar levels.  There have been several studies that have determined that consuming vinegar was found to lower blood sugar levels and helped significantly improve insulin sensitivity. Try diluting one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 8 ounces of water and on an empty stomach.
9. You can use it as a detoxifier. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antiviral properties. In a glass of warm water, mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 2 teaspoons of lime or lemon juice! Drink daily before meals. It detoxifies your body and aids in proper digestion.
10. Apple cider vinegar fights bad breath. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a mouth wash! Mix 1/2 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Stir this mixture and use it to rinse your mouth. Use daily to rid bad breath!

So as you can see, there are many uses of apple cider vinegar that can be beneficial to your health! Try it and let me know what you think! Well, that's it for me. Treena V. is signing off. Y'all be easy!




-The Vegan World Traveler

Va-Jay-Jay Blues: Why the tampons and pads you're using could be killing you

What's Good?
What's up my ladies!! And gents! Question--(this question is for the Ladies; however, Men, I need you to stay until the end!) Does your va-jay-jay have the blues? Yes-- it is a serious question! Do you suffer from vaginal itching, inflammation, fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, etc? This may sound crazy, but the tampons and pads you're using could be a contributing factor. You heard right, your tampons and pads! Let me back track for a second....

"Back in the day when I was young, I'm not a kid anymore"...
Growing up, I was raised on Always and Tampax maxi pads. I'm talking about those THICK ones without the wings...about five inches thick (HA!). I didn't start using Tampax and Always tampons until college (I know, right?). And I always liked to get the scented ones. Well, do you ever remember reading the back of those tampons? That if you left them in too long, it could potentially cause "toxic shock syndrome?" I'm like, "what the hell is that?" Being the naïve person that I was back then, I would just say "meh, it'll be AYIGHT." Toxic Shock Syndrome can cause high fever, low blood pressure, vomiting, seizures, rash...you could DIE, Yo! It is a very serious condition. I never knew anyone personally who had toxic shock syndrome. But I always wondered why was it so toxic?

Toxic Shock Syndrome Rash

What's Really In Your Maxi Pads and Tampons?
I just recently watched a video on Facebook a few months ago that went viral. The video was titled "Cherish pads," and it talked about what tampons and maxi pads are REALLY made of.  Well after the video, I decided to do my own research and was HORRIFIED. Here are some of the ingredients of what's in those pads and tampons, and the adverse effect it has on your female organs and other parts of the body.

Bleached Cotton, Plastic, and Harmful Chemicals
Whaaaaa? That's right...including added fragrances, pesticides, chlorine and dioxin! Dioxin is a HIGHLY toxic compound that can cause reproductive problems, cancer, and hormonal imbalance. The same ingredients are in the tampons! So, when you insert that tampon into your va-jay-jay, you are also inserting pesticides, chlorine, dioxin, and other harmful carcinogens directly into your bloodstream.  I cringe when I try to imagine what those toxins can do to your female organs over several years! There have been several studies that show prolonged use of these chemical-based pads and tampons have contributed to the growth of fibroids and endometriosis. Come on, Son!! To think that most women get their first period between the ages of 9-12, that's a long time to be exposed to pesticides and other harmful chemicals! Inserted directly into the va-jay-jay! Now I see why they refer to it as toxic shock syndrome. That's some toxic shit!

"When you know better, you do better..."
There are alternatives out there, y'all! Ever since I watched that video, I only use organic, all-natural maxi pads and tampons (100% cotton and no chlorine beach or pesticides). Seventh Generation is one brand that I use. Click here to for more information.  Seventh Generation also has organic, all-natural tampons here.

Natracare maxi pads are another brand that is really good. They also have organic, all-natural pads as well. Check out their tampons here.

Natracare all natural, chlorine free maxi pads

                               

Another Healthy Alternative: The Diva Cup
The Diva Cup is something that I have not tried yet, but I've heard very good reviews about it from other women. The Diva cup doesn't contain any of the harmful chemicals I mentioned earlier (it is also latex and dye-free, and can last up to 12 hours)! You insert the cup inside the va-jay-jay, and (if inserted properly) it should form a suction. That means you suffer from less leaks. Yay! Click here to check out more information on the diva cup.

This post is NOT just for the ladies to read, it's for the men too! To the men reading this, I need you to spread this information to every woman or girl you love. That includes your sister, daughter, cousin, auntie, or friend! Let's teach our young ladies early on! This could prevent a lot of potential health issues in the future. Well, that's it for me, signing off now! Y'all be easy! I'll holla!






-The Vegan World Traveler