Collagen is for everyone!

I have experienced pain for yearsssss. I just attributed it to being a cheerleader for 8 years and accepted that it was just part of my life. That’s wild. Why do we just accept that we are going to live with pain when we could live pain free? ๐Ÿค”

I have had to use a heating pad on my lower back just about every single night for as long as I can remember. The moment I lie down I feel an explosion of pain in my lower back.

Until a few weeks ago… I noticed recently that I haven’t needed my heating pad in several weeks. The lower back pain is basically gone. I actually could not believe it. I drink the highest quality, cleanest, most effective collagen I have found every day, I never miss a day, and holy moly am I reaping the benefits. ๐Ÿ˜๐Ÿ™Œ

When my husband, Chris, learned that taking the collagen everyday significantly improved the lower back pain I have had for YEARS, he started taking it to help with his pain from being an athlete and ultra runner. Collagen is for everyone, not just women!


So let’s dive deeper into collagen… Widely recognized for its potential benefits, collagen is hailed as a cornerstone for skin health, joint support, and more.

  1. Skin Health and Elasticity: Collagen is a vital protein that forms the structural foundation of your skin, providing it with strength, elasticity, and resilience. As we age, the production of collagen naturally declines, leading to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. By supplementing with collagen, you can help replenish lost stores and support your skin’s elasticity, resulting in a more youthful and vibrant complexion. Clinical studies have shown promising results, with participants experiencing improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance.
  2. Joint Support and Mobility: Beyond its role in skin health, collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of your joints and connective tissues. Cartilage, the flexible tissue that cushions your joints, is primarily composed of collagen. By supplementing with collagen, you can support joint health and mobility, potentially reducing discomfort associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis. Research suggests that collagen supplementation may help alleviate joint pain, increase flexibility, and support overall joint function, allowing individuals to maintain an active lifestyle as they age.
  3. Hair and Nail Strength: In addition to benefiting the skin and joints, collagen can also promote the health and strength of your hair and nails. As essential building blocks of these structures, collagen peptides provide the necessary support for strong, lustrous hair and healthy, resilient nails. By incorporating collagen into your daily routine, you may notice improvements in hair texture, thickness, and shine, as well as enhanced nail growth and durability.
  4. Gut Health and Digestion: The health of your gut lining plays a crucial role in overall digestive function and nutrient absorption. Collagen contains amino acids such as glycine, proline, and glutamine, which are known to support gut health and integrity. By fortifying the gut lining, collagen may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote optimal nutrient absorption. Additionally, collagen peptides have been shown to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, further enhancing digestive wellness.
  5. Muscle Mass and Recovery: Collagen is not only beneficial for skin, joints, and connective tissues but also plays a role in supporting muscle health and recovery. As a key component of muscle tissue, collagen provides structural support and helps maintain muscle strength and function. Supplementing with collagen post-exercise may aid in muscle recovery, reduce exercise-induced inflammation, and support the growth and repair of muscle fibers, ultimately enhancing athletic performance and recovery.

But, not all collagen is created equal. If it’s not organic you’re risking pesticide/herbicide contamination. If it’s not third party tested you’re risking heavy metal contamination. Additionally the collagen I have chosen has added CBG in it (nothing else on the market like this) which is giving increased benefits such as:

  1. Neuroprotective Properties: Some studies indicate that CBG may have neuroprotective properties, potentially making it useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
  2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: CBG has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory agent in preclinical studies. This suggests it could be helpful in managing conditions characterized by inflammation, such as inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis.
  3. Antibacterial Properties: Research has shown that CBG has antibacterial properties, particularly against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. This could make it a valuable tool in fighting bacterial infections.
  4. Glaucoma Treatment: Some studies suggest that CBG may help reduce intraocular pressure, making it a potential treatment for glaucoma.
  5. Appetite Stimulation: Like THC, CBG may stimulate appetite, which could be beneficial for individuals experiencing appetite loss due to medical conditions or treatments like chemotherapy.
  6. Potential Cancer Treatment: Early research indicates that CBG may inhibit the growth of cancer cells, particularly in certain types of cancer such as colon cancer. However, more research is needed in this area.
  7. Mood Enhancement: While not as well-studied as other cannabinoids like THC and CBD, some anecdotal evidence suggests that CBG may have mood-enhancing effects.

If you want to learn more about the only collagen I would use or recommend, watch this video https://youtu.be/k0sZ83R4Z80

You can grab yours here for $10 off

https://jessicaderico.greencompassglobal.com/share/573327

And you can find me over in my wellness community for any additional support, info, help, etc! https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean/

Toxin Free Summer Vacay

A lot of people are taking vacations right now and while it’s harder to maintain a healthy and low tox lifestyle while away from home, it’s not impossible. Having a toxin-free summer vacation is a great way to prioritize your health and well-being. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:

  1. Choose a Natural Destination: Opt for vacation spots that are known for their natural beauty, such as national parks, forests, or beaches with clean water. Avoid areas with heavy pollution or known environmental hazards.
  2. Research Accommodations: Look for accommodations that promote sustainability and use eco-friendly practices. Check if they have non-toxic cleaning products, organic bedding, and natural ventilation systems.
  3. Pack Your Own Toxin-Free Products: Bring your own toiletries and personal care products that are free from harmful chemicals. Look for organic, natural, and biodegradable alternatives for items like sunscreen, insect repellent, shampoo, and soap. I will link some of my faves at the bottom of this post ๐Ÿ™‚
  4. Stay Hydrated with Clean Water: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered or purified water to avoid consuming water from potentially contaminated sources. This helps reduce your exposure to toxins and minimizes plastic waste. You can also get filtration water bottles, I will link one below.
  5. Eat Organic and Local Foods: Seek out local farmers’ markets or organic food stores to buy fresh produce and ingredients for your meals. Choose organic options to reduce your exposure to pesticides, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). I’ll be heading to Florida next week and my roomies and I will be making a Publix run when we get in to stock up on healthy foods to have in our hotel room.
  6. Avoid Fast Food and Processed Snacks: Steer clear of fast food chains and heavily processed snacks, as they often contain artificial additives, preservatives, and unhealthy trans fats. Opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruits, nuts, or homemade snacks. I love eating out on trips but I always try to find the healthiest options and avoid fast food at all costs.
  7. Embrace Natural Sun Protection: Shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs. Use a non-toxic mineral-based sunscreen (linked below) and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  8. Choose Non-Toxic Activities: Engage in outdoor activities that don’t involve exposure to harmful substances. Instead of renting motorized watercraft, try kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking. Avoid activities like smoking or being in proximity to secondhand smoke.
  9. Minimize Plastic Waste: Reduce your use of single-use plastics by bringing your own reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and food containers. Dispose of any waste responsibly and recycle whenever possible.
  10. Connect with Nature: Spend quality time in nature by hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the outdoors. Research shows that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being.

Remember, the key is to make conscious choices that prioritize your health and the environment. By implementing these tips, you can have a toxin-free and eco-friendly summer vacation without skimping on the fun!

Helpful Links:

Facial SPF – http://ltl.is/dqtbyvh

SPF – https://amzn.to/43rkQMy

Insect Repellant (just search “insect”) – https://earthley.com/ref/dericoj/

Shampoo/Conditioner – https://attitudeliving.com/a/rewards/r/M2iLkVsC

Charcoal Body Bar – http://ltl.is/m46kr92

Makeup/Skincare – crunchi.com/jessicaderico

Filter Water Bottle – https://amzn.to/46LtJ6t

Detox on a Budget!

Happy Friday, friends!

I don’t often share about the makeup and skincare that I’m truly obsessed with and honestly changed my life. But when they’re having a bigger than Black Friday sale, I feel I owe it to anyone who follows me to shout it from the rooftops!

I know how expensive everything is right now. I also know how incredibly important it is for our health to continue to invest in it the best we can by choosing safe, organic foods as well as safe, clean products. This is why I’m so stinkin’ excited that I can help you detox a couple of your makeup products, a few of your skincare products, and even your little’s soap at a huge discount this weekend!

If you use or need a morning moisturizer, nighttime moisturizer, facial essence, facial cleanser, baby/kid’s soap, bronzer, or eyeliner, I’ve got you covered at 30 or 40% off until midnight on Sunday.

Comment below or shoot me a Facebook message M.me/Jessie.rae.31 to get a custom shade match or skincare recommendation based on your skin type, tone, and needs! You can also shop with this link and get entered to win up to 6 half priced coupons and a free Facial essence: crunchi.com/jessicaderico/event/32434

Fur babies deserve safe products too

Obviously I talk a lot about safe products for women, the men in our lives, and the children in our lives, but what about our fur babies? Brontรฉ often has issues with her paw and Iโ€™m always looking for things to do to help it heal and feel better for her. This past time we did lots of Epsom Salt baths and apple cider vinegar soaks but it had me thinking about safe animal products.ย 

So, I stumbled upon this company on instagram and thought it was definitely worth sharing. It is called Natural Dog Company and the post mentioned 100% organic products, so obviously I wanted to do some digging to see if it was greenwashed or not.ย 

Iโ€™m ordering the Paw Soother, PawTection, and Skin Soother for my pups. Check out the ingredients:

Ingredients

Paw Soother | Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Mango Butter, Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Hempseed Oil, Organic Jojoba, Candelilla Wax, Calendula, Cajeput, Chamomile, Natural Vitamin E, Rosemary Extract

PawTection | Organic Mango Butter, Organic Rice Bran Oil, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Carnauba Wax, Sunflower Wax, Candelilla Wax, Natural Vitamin E, Ylang Ylang, Benzoin, Lavender, Rosemary

Skin Soother | Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Safflower Oil, Candelilla Wax, Sea Buckthorn Oil, Organic Lavender, Chamomile, Frankincense, Myrrh, Vetiver, Organic Niaouli, Benzoin, Natural Vitamin E

So much better than the other creams Iโ€™ve found for itchy paws that contain ingredients such as:

โŒ Propylene Glycol

โŒ Petroleum

โŒ EDTA

โŒ Diazolidinyl Urea

โŒ Fragrance

If you’re not sure why those ingredients are bad or you just want to continue learning about living a more toxin free life, please join my wellness community on FB -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingclean/ ๐ŸŒฑ๐ŸŒฑ

Want some coffee with your pesticides?

Iโ€™m a HUGE coffee drinker…

Iโ€™ve loved coffee since my teen years and I donโ€™t go a day without at least one cup (letโ€™s be honest itโ€™s usually more). Coffee has always been one thing I wonโ€™t give up as I continue to make healthier choices in my life. I switched to a much better coffee creamer but I knew that still wasnโ€™t enough. We now only buy organic coffee and Iโ€™ll tell you whyโ€ฆ

*Organic coffee tastes better.ย 

It has a less metallic taste and just tastes more natural and pure, because it is more natural and pure. Organic coffee is grown without chemicals, herbicides, pesticides, and other additives. Because it is grown without these things, obviously it is healthier and safer. It also has antioxidants and minerals that are good for our bodies.

*Organic coffee has less side effects.

If you are someone who gets a stomach ache after drinking coffee, thereโ€™s a good chance itโ€™s from the chemicals, herbicides, pesticides, or other additives and not actually from the coffee at all. 

These harmful toxins can also cause cancer and damage to your nervous and reproductive systems. 

*Organic coffee will not hinder a childโ€™s development.ย 

I have been drinking coffee since I was 13 and I know lots of teens out there drink a cup or more every day. Regular coffee contains hormones that can affect the developmental process of these kids, but that is not an issue with organic coffee. 

*Organic coffee is better for the environment.

The toxins listed above can seriously deplete the environment. Regular coffee also promotes deforestation and I donโ€™t have to tell you the negative effects that has on our environment.

We have our organic coffee on auto ship with Thrive Market, it’s the most affordable option I’ve found so far and I never have to worry about running out.

๐™๐™จ๐™š ๐™ฉ๐™๐™ž๐™จ ๐™จ๐™ฅ๐™š๐™˜๐™ž๐™–๐™ก ๐™จ๐™๐™ค๐™ฅ๐™ฅ๐™ž๐™ฃ๐™œ ๐™ก๐™ž๐™ฃ๐™  ๐™›๐™ค๐™ง 25% ๐™ค๐™›๐™› ๐™ฎ๐™ค๐™ช๐™ง ๐™›๐™ž๐™ง๐™จ๐™ฉ ๐™ค๐™ง๐™™๐™š๐™ง: http://thrv.me/ujcsNz

I should add that I still go to Dunkin’ Donuts and I’m well aware their coffee is not organic, but I enjoy an iced coffee or latte from there now and then. If we’re consciously making healthier choices in our lives, it’s okay to have some balance and keep some things you enjoy!

raise clean, friends ๐ŸŒท

Let’s talk food ๐ŸŒท

๐š‚๐š—๐šŠ๐šŒ๐š”๐šœ and ๐šœ๐š๐šŠ๐š™๐š•๐šŽ๐šœ!

I placed a Thrive order on Saturday and thought it is perfect timing to give a break down of my thrive favorites especially since we’ve all got food on the mind this week.

I am so excited to be able to offer first time shoppers 25% off as well!

We ๐Ÿ’š Thrive Market because it offers:
โ€ขSuper savings (most prices canโ€™t be beat)
โ€ขLots of our favorites in one spot
โ€ขFree shipping directly to our doorstep

๐™๐™จ๐™š ๐™ฉ๐™๐™ž๐™จ ๐™จ๐™ฅ๐™š๐™˜๐™ž๐™–๐™ก ๐™จ๐™๐™ค๐™ฅ๐™ฅ๐™ž๐™ฃ๐™œ ๐™ก๐™ž๐™ฃ๐™  ๐™›๐™ค๐™ง 25% ๐™ค๐™›๐™› ๐™ฎ๐™ค๐™ช๐™ง ๐™›๐™ž๐™ง๐™จ๐™ฉ ๐™ค๐™ง๐™™๐™š๐™ง: http://thrv.me/ujcsNz

โ–ถ ๐™๐™ž๐™ฅ๐™จ:
โ€ขShop the certified organic tab for food items
โ€ขGrab your staples here and use your local grocery for produce and parishables
โ€ขPlease keep in mind, there’s still a large portion of their products that are NOT Raising Clean approved – especially in the personal care tab. Be on the lookout there for blacklisted ingredients and never hesitate to ask for help reading those ingredient labels!
โ€ขI personally don’t feel comfortable recommending any Acure brand products due to the current investigation on them utilizing child labor.

โ–ถ ๐™‹๐™–๐™ฃ๐™ฉ๐™ง๐™ฎ ๐™Ž๐™ฉ๐™–๐™ฅ๐™ก๐™š๐™จ:
Organic Coconut Milk
Organic Coconut Aminos
Organic Maple Syrup
Organic Coffee
Organic Rolled Oats
Organic Pasta Sauce
Organic Rice
Organic Lentil Pasta
Pea Protein Powder
Grass Fed Collagen Peptides
Calafia Farms Better Half Creamer
Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips
Couscous Mix
Date Sugar
Organic Coconu Nectar
Color Kitchen Food Coloring
Simples Mills Almond Flour Pancake & Waffle Mix
Organic Raw Coconut Butter
Organic Dried Mango
Almond Flour
Organic Sesame Seeds
Organic Pure Lemon Juice
Organic Pumpkin Puree
Organic Spices
Nutritional Yeast Powder
Brown Rice Pasta
Organic Soup
Turkey Gravy
Organic Free Range Chicken Broth
Be Kind Granola Bars
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic Gluten Free Pancake & Baking Mix
Organic Gluten Free Pasta

โ–ถ ๐™๐™ง๐™š๐™–๐™ฉ๐™จ:
Organic Toaster Pastries
Simple Mills Cake Mix
Organic Grass Fed Mac & Cheese
Organic Chocolate Syrup
Newman O’s Cookies
Mighty Muffins
Organic Potato Chips
Chocolate Pudding
Cacao Goji Power Snacks
Larabars
Organic Fruit Strips
Organic Rice Bars

โ–ถ Pets:
Dog Cookies

For access to my full toxin free master list with all your personal care products ๐Ÿ‘‰ https://forms.gle/3fJiMRtJfYokBCjQ7