Numerous media reports and studies – most notably the well-known investigation by Consumer Reports – have found alarming levels of cadmium and lead in many dark chocolate products. The result: a food long praised as a superfood is now suddenly under suspicion.

MAINSTREAM MEDIA CRITICISM

• Tests showed that heavy metals in both conventional and organic dark chocolates were sometimes significantly above recommended limits.

• Cadmium can damage kidneys and bones over time. Lead is particularly dangerous for children and pregnant women, as it can cause nerve damage and developmental disorders.

• The higher the cocoa content, the higher the potential heavy metal levels – unsurprising, since cocoa grows in soil that may contain these substances.

• Even organic chocolate showed high levels in some cases – a shock for those who prioritize sustainability and quality.

• Experts say that up to 28g of dark chocolate per day is still considered safe for adults.

Raw-Vegan Chocolate made by Rohyal

DARK RAW CHOCOLATE

So far the mainstream narrative...
...But before we all start burying our dark chocolate – or worse, switching to milk chocolate – let’s pause and use our brains for a moment!

DARK CHOCOLATE: CONCENTRATION, NOT A CHEMICAL COCKTAIL

Yes, dark chocolate contains more of everything...
Because it’s more concentrated. More cocoa automatically means: more bitterness, more antioxidants, more magnesium, more tryptophan – and with that, more of those feel-good natural chemicals... and yes, potentially more heavy metals from the soil.
But now this natural, minimally processed food is being vilified – while few are asking what’s really inside all those shiny industrial products packed with flavors, emulsifiers, fillers, cheap sugar, and milk powder.
Sure – less cadmium! But in exchange, plenty of other stuff no one’s talking about. Probably because it doesn’t grab headlines as well...!

ORGANIC IS NOT THE PROBLEM

The new criticism of organic chocolate is especially absurd. Because it’s often grown more traditionally and comes from certain regions, it can contain more cadmium – that’s true.
But if you were to run studies on pesticide residues, glyphosate, and other chemical loads in conventional products, cadmium and lead would probably fall off the worry list real quick.

CACAO REMAINS THE QUEEN

So, dear readers: don’t lose your minds – and use your common sense.
Yes, milk chocolate contains less cadmium – but only because it contains much less cocoa. Instead, it offers more sugar, more fat, often lower-quality ingredients, and sometimes barely anything that could still be called cocoa.
If you think you're choosing the “healthier” option just because there’s less cadmium and lead in it, maybe take a moment to reconsider what “healthier” really means.
Dark chocolate – or better yet: raw cacao beans, cacao nibs, or high-quality raw chocolate – remains one of the most natural and nutrient-rich foods nature has to offer.

NATURALLY SACRED

> Even the Mayans revered cacao as a sacred plant – a gift from the gods: food, medicine, and spiritual tool all in one.

Fresh cacao fruit - picture taken in Bali in 2014 by the author.

And that’s exactly what chocolate still is today – if we choose to honor it in its natural form.
As is often the case in this crazy world: what was once divine is now demonized – simply because its natural form carries more real substance than industrial sugar paste flavored with "cocoa."

Those who choose real chocolate are embracing a raw resource that has been valued for centuries as both food and medicine.

Stay awake, stay curious – and enjoy consciously. Dark, pure, and with intention.

I always welcome feedback, exchange of ideas, and reflections. Together, we are on a journey – in the process of awakening.

Picture taken by the author in Bali - in a restaurant in 2014

WHY YOUR BODY MIGHT BE RIGHT

It’s summer. The sun is blazing, the thermometer reads over 90°F (32°C) – and yet, you're not thirsty? Strange, right? We all know how important it is to stay hydrated. And still, sometimes we simply don’t feel like drinking. Maybe that’s not negligence at all – but rather a smart signal from your body.

Because: Not all water is living water.

The water that comes out of our taps is often filled with residues: chemical particles from agriculture and industry, micro- and nanoplastics, medications, hormones from livestock – even traces from human pharmaceuticals.
Tap water – and most bottled water – is essentially “dead.” And our bodies, so sensitive and wise, can sense that. No wonder they don’t crave this kind of water.
No Thirst?

Hot Days and Still No Urge to Drink?

What if there were a natural alternative – a way to hydrate that our bodies actually love?

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: HYDRATION IN ITS MOST LIVING FORM

Fruits are far more than just sweet snacks. They are complex masterpieces of nature – packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, phytonutrients, and most importantly: structured cellular water. This type of water is alive, harmoniously embedded in a matrix of nutrients, energy – and perhaps even information we don't yet have words for.
Fruits don’t just give us water – they give us life.
Unlike artificially enriched supplements, fruits deliver a holistic package that our bodies easily recognize, absorb, and utilize.
Yes, fruits contain sugar –
but not the isolated, refined kind. Their natural sugar is balanced by fiber and nutrients that support, rather than stress, your metabolism.

NOT CRAVING WATER? MAYBE YOU NEED FRUIT.

If you feel like you should be drinking water but just aren’t thirsty – reach for a juicy melon, a handful of berries, or a perfectly ripe peach. Your body knows what it needs. And sometimes, it’s not just H₂O – it’s the whole spectrum of nature.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you should stop drinking water. On the contrary – water is essential. But when you do drink it, pay attention to its quality. Soft, purified, and ideally revitalized water is perceived very differently by the body – it often starts craving it.

BUT WHAT IF YOU STILL DON’T FEEL THIRSTY – EVEN WITH GOOD WATER?

Even if your water is clean, filtered, and perhaps even energized, you still might not feel thirsty. In that case, try giving your body a gentle nudge:

• Add a splash of fresh lemon – it’s refreshing, rich in vitamins, and stimulates digestion.

• A tiny pinch of natural salt (like crystal or rock salt) adds minerals and structure, improving cellular absorption.

• Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or lemon balm can energize and enliven the water.

This way, your water gains “character” again – and your body receives just the right impulses to gently remind it of the importance of hydration.

Trust your body. Trust nature. And don’t fear fruit – it’s not your enemy, but a gift.

Let this summer be not just hot, but alive – with living water, vibrant food, and a new awareness of what your body is really trying to tell you.

Let me know how you personally relate to thirst and hydration – I’d love to hear from you!

...and as we prepare for it, the true meaning often gets lost amid eggs and chocolate bunnies. 🐣

So, let's focus on food and animals!

Because where there's celebration, there's also feasting! Families and friends gather for Easter brunch, where the traditional Easter egg symbolizes not only fertility but also the cycle of life and rebirth.

**Eating eggs contributes to animal suffering. **
Unfortunately, modern egg production is often associated with animal cruelty.
Laying hens have been bred to lay up to 300 eggs per year, far exceeding their natural capacity of 12-30 eggs. They endure conditions far from their natural habitat, suffering from broken bones, feather loss, and immense stress. In cage, floor, and free-range systems, 9-18 chickens are crammed into one square meter. In organic farming, there are 6 chickens per square meter, and in outdoor runs, 4m².
Chickens love to bathe, a behavior denied to them in the egg industry.
A free-range chicken could live up to 8 years, while most laying hens are slaughtered after just 18 months.

All male chicks are sorted and either shredded or gassed alive! This is simply terrible.

Chickens are intelligent, sensitive, and emotional beings, 
just like dogs and cats. They enjoy being petted, recognize their human 
family, and even respond to their names when given.

Egg substitutes:

Fortunately, there are numerous ways to celebrate Easter without eggs, without sacrificing taste.

Eggs can easily be replaced with various alternatives.

binding and moisture in baked goods:

• Soak 20g of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds in 50ml of water.
• Use 60g of applesauce.
• Mix 1-2 tablespoons of chickpea or soy flour with 2 tablespoons of water.
• Crush 1 ripe banana.
• Use silken tofu or cashew butter.
• Add soy or coconut yogurt.
• Use cornstarch as an alternative.
• Baking soda for lightness in pancakes, muffins, cakes, etc.

There are also egg replacement mixes available in stores. Often, the egg can simply be omitted from the recipe.

Another tip: To mimic the taste of eggs, season savory dishes with black salt, also known as Kala Namak.

I'll share delicious recipes with you below! This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan Easter brunch without compromise.
By reflecting on the original symbolism of the Easter festival and making conscious choices, we can not only reduce animal suffering but also rediscover the true meaning of easter: the pursuit of personal growth, inner renewal, and rebirth (See my other article part 1: https://w3.do/8h2dsiqd)

Thank you for allowing me to inspire you! I look forward to working together to make the world a more peaceful place. 🙏🏽
Happy Easter!

Recipe 1 Chia Pudding with Topping

Mash bananas and mix with oat milk and chia seeds. Let it sit for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches a pudding-like consistency. Fill into bowls and top/decorate with fruits, nuts, seeds, cocoa nibs, coconut flakes, etc. as desired. To give the chia pudding a nice color, I mixed in blueberry powder.

Recipe 2 Vegan-Glutenfree-Oat-Bread

Mix 250g oat flour, 150g brown rice flour, 100g buckwheat flour, yeast (dry or fresh), 1-2 teaspoons of sea salt, and 2 teaspoons of guar gum. Combine everything with 500ml of water and let it rise in a greased baking pan (e.g., 25x10cm) for 20 minutes. Smooth the top with water and then with a little oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for approximately 60 minutes. Remove from the pan and let it cool on a rack.

Recipe 3 Vegan Egg Salad

Mix 3 tablespoons of almond butter, juice of 1/2 lemon, vinegar, mustard, salt, a pinch of turmeric powder, a little oat milk, garlic powder, and Kala Namak for an eggy flavor. Stir everything well. Be careful not to oversalt, as the capers are salty. Add diced pickles and capers. Incorporate onion sprouts or chives. Drain 300g of tofu well and cut into small cubes. Add the tofu to the dressing, rubbing some tofu pieces with your fingers. It's best to cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

In our modern society, Easter seems to be inseparably linked to the consumption of eggs and lambs.
But upon closer examination, the question arises:

Has it always been this way?

Indeed, Easter was originally a celebration of inner growth and fertility, long before the Christian era.

Today, I share with you a condensed excerpt of the story of "Inanna's Descent to the Underworld".

(There are numerous textual representations from different epochs, including the title "Descent to the Underworld.)

Inanna's Descent to the Underworld

The goddess of heaven and earth (also the goddess of fertility), Inanna embarks on a journey into the underworld to conquer it. Along the way, she must overcome 7 walls (or 7 gates) and gradually relinquish seven things she holds dear during her descent: her clothes, her jewelry, her hair, her pride, her desires, her crown, and her power.
Until she stands naked and powerless at the throne of the underworld before her twin sister Ereshkigal. However, Inanna knew no humility and attempted to overthrow Ereshkigal from the throne. She failed and was punished by being bound to a stake (to a cross) Only when she is revived and saved by the water of life can she ascend to the upper world.

Symbolism and Reflection

This story is a parable for the fact that we cannot feel complete until we have looked into the depths of our soul and integrated our shadows!
The underworld symbolizes the world of shadows.
Inanna's sister Ereshkigal symbolizes our deepest shadows: all our fears, our pain, our sorrow. These shadows cannot simply be pushed away.
We must let go of our desires, our wishes, and our ego, and face our shadows 'naked,' without masks and in humility.

Where Inanna dies, only our old, false self dies.
The tears, hence the "water of life," symbolize surrender and thus healing.
Inanna returns to life and to the upper world, and is thus quasi-reborn.

Inanna is also the goddess of fertility, which is why Easter is also celebrated as the festival of fertility with the symbolism of eggs.

Many thousands of years later, the Christian story of Jesus was spread. 
Thus, the story of Inanna can be compared to that of Jesus, with his 
journey to the cross, crucifixion, and resurrection. 

Unfortunately, there is not much left of femininity in this part of the Bible...Coincidence? I guess not...

Over 10,000 chemical substances are hidden behind the abbreviation PFAS. These substances, known for their water, grease, and dirt-repellent properties, sneak into various aspects of our lives, from the kitchen to outdoor clothing.

The Ubiquity of PFAS

Teflon pans, outdoor clothing (textiles), paints, impregnations, ski wax, colors, carpets, cosmetics, to-go cups, pizza boxes, plastics, electronics, battery manufacturing, solar cells, firefighting foam, cleaning agents, galvanization, car air conditioners, baking paper, pesticides—the list is endless.

These chemicals cannot break down and persist in the environment.
It is alarming that 98% of the world's population already carries these chemicals in their blood.

Health Risks and Environmental Impact

These invisible dangers accumulate in our organs and can cause serious health damage. From infertility to allergies, thyroid damage, reduced immune response, liver and kidney damage, to cancer—the impacts are diverse. Even the environmental effects are dramatic as PFAS contaminates groundwater, thus entering our drinking water.

The Invisible Threat in Our Food and Drink

Exposure to PFAS mainly occurs through drinking water and food. Both animal and plant-based foods are affected as soils and waters are contaminated by these chemicals.

The coating of paper with PFAS means that these substances are ingested by people daily through "to-go" and "home-delivered food" in substantial amounts!

A Glimpse into the Future

Although PFOS and PFOA are mostly banned in Europe, they are still widespread. The term "forever chemicals" illustrates their extreme longevity.
Even in Switzerland, these chemicals are present, as studies by the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) show.

Environmental Protection through Education

To protect ourselves from the risks, we must understand how PFAS infiltrates our lives. The introduction of limits for certain PFAS in animal products and drinking water from 2024 and 2026 respectively in Switzerland and Europe is a first step. Nevertheless, awareness and individual protection are essential.

Individual Protection: Water Filtration

Given the challenges of contaminated drinking water, I have opted for a water filter that, among other things, eliminates these chemicals.
If you'd like to learn more about my filtration system, click here (only in German): ARCTICA

Dark Waters: A Call for Vigilance
If you want to see the devastating effects of PFAS in the USA, I recommend watching the movie "Dark Waters."

It's time to become aware of this invisible threat and take action to protect your health and the environment!

Cobalamin is Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, is crucial for our health, regardless of dietary choices. Produced by bacteria found in soil and water, the increasing sterility in our modern diet predisposes us to Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Let's delve into various aspects of this essential vitamin.

B12 is Exclusively Bacteria-Produced
B12 is solely produced by bacteria, not by plants or animals.
There are different forms of Cobalamin, including the active forms Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalamin, and the frequently found inactive form Cyanocobalamin in supplements.

Consequences of B12 Deficiency

A lack of B12 can lead to severe health issues such as anemia, nerve damage, and even depression. Symptoms range from fatigue, nausea, confusion to concentration problems.

Absorption of B12

For the metabolism of Vitamin B12 in the stomach, the Intrinsic Factor is crucial. Formed in the parietal cells, also known as oxyntic cells, of the gastric mucosa, the Intrinsic Factor plays a vital role in B12 absorption in the small intestine. A healthy gut is essential for optimal nutrient absorption, including Vitamin B12!

Did You Know That Vitamin B12 is Heat-Sensitive?

PLANT-BASED VITAMIN B12 SOURCES & REQUIREMENTS

Plant-based foods naturally enriched with B12 through fermentation by bacteria include sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, bread drink, rejuvelac, etc. Many processed products now contain added Vitamin B12. Whether B12 remains intact during heating is unclear.
Such products are generally less healthy, serving convenience rather than health!
Studies challenge the activity of Cobalamin in fermented foods, including algae like Spirulina and Chlorella, warning that inactive Cobalamin might block receptors, hindering the absorption of active B12.

> My personal opinion: Never trust a study you haven't conducted yourself 😉

Dosage

The recommended dose is 3 micrograms per day for adults. B12 injections can be beneficial, especially for those with Intrinsic Factor deficiency. It's advisable to check B12 levels through a blood test beforehand.
Vitamin B12 is available as a supplement in spray form, toothpaste, pills, capsules, or injections. These supplements are mostly vegan and
cruelty-free.

Fresh and Raw

Fresh, raw, unwashed, and unpeeled plant-based foods, preferably from an organic farmer or self-grown, are the best Vitamin B12 sources.
The notion that animal products are a good B12 source is misleading, as livestock and poultry receive B12 as a supplement rather than producing it themselves!

It's essential to know that Vitamin B12 is heat-sensitive. Another reason why B12 from animal products is not a reliable source, as who consumes raw fresh eggs or raw fresh meat today?

Conclusion

"Abstaining" from animal products makes sense for ethical, health, and environmental reasons! A balanced plant-based diet is health-promoting! Vitamin B12 can be taken directly as a plant-based supplement without the detour through animal products!

English (Deutsch👇🏽)

Root vegetables and cruciferous veggies are a raw power combo for mental clarity! 🌱 Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, they boost brain function. The included fibers aid digestion and stabilize blood sugar, positively impacting concentration. 🧠💚 Treat yourself to this healthy snack as is or as a tasty salad for a clear mind!

📲💬Discover the power of plant-based foods and enhance your mental clarity through mindful nutrition. Start today and follow for more. 🌱💡

Deutsch

Wie Du Deine Geistige Klarheit unterstützen kannst (1)

Wurzelgemüse und Kohlgemüse sind roh ein Powerpaket für geistige Klarheit! 🌱 Reich an Antioxidantien und Vitaminen fördert es die Gehirnfunktion. Die enthaltenen Ballaststoffe unterstützen die Verdauung und stabilisieren den Blutzuckerspiegel, was sich positiv auf die Konzentration auswirkt. 🧠💚 Gönn dir diese gesunde Knabberei einfach so pur, oder als leckeren Salat für einen klaren Kopf!

📲💬Entdecke die Kraft pflanzlicher Nahrungsmittel und unterstütze dabei deine geistige Klarheit durch bewusste Ernährung. Starte noch heute und folge mir für mehr. 🌱💡

Vegane Ernährung ist kompliziert

Veganer Mythos Nr. 8 aufgedeckt

3 Tipps:

1. Veganisiere deine Lieblingsgerichte: Ersetze tierische Produkte durch pflanzliche Alternativen und entdecke neue Geschmacksrichtungen!🌱🍔

2. Plane im Voraus im Restaurant: Informiere das Restaurant vorher über deine vegane Ernährung. Die meisten Restaurants sind bereit, vegane Optionen zuzubereiten.🍽️🌱

3. Nutze vegane Apps und Websites": Entdecke vegane Rezepte und Ernährungstipps, um deine kulinarische Reise zu bereichern. Apps und Websites machen den Umstieg einfacher!📱🍏

Englisch

Vegan Nutrition is Complicated

Vegan Myth nr. 8 debunked

3 tips:

1. Veganize your favorite dishes: Transform your favourite meals by swapping animal products for plant-based alternatives and exploring new flavours!🌱🍔

2. Plan Ahead when dining out": Give the restaurant a heads up about your vegan choices. Most places are willing to prepare vegan options if they know in advance.🍽️🌱

3. Use Vegan Apps and Websites: Discover vegan recipes and nutritional tips to enrich your culinary journey. Apps and websites make the transition smoother!📱🍏
   
   

English (Deutsch👇🏽)

Vitamin B12 wird von Bakterien hergestellt und kann direkt als Nahrungsergänzungsmittel aufgenommen werden, anstatt den Umweg über Tiere 🍔 zu machen.

Nicht-vegane Ernährung kann genauso zu B12-Mangel führen, da B12 hitzeempfindlich ist und beim Kochen größtenteils verloren geht 🍳.

In Anbetracht unserer immer sterileren Nahrungsquellen und des Mangels an bodenbasierten Bakterien ist die B12-Supplementierung eine kluge Wahl, um Mangelerscheinungen zu vermeiden. Für alle 🌱👍!

👉🏽 Möchtest du mehr über vegane Ernährung erfahren oder hast Fragen? Lass uns in den Kommentaren darüber sprechen! 💬🌱

Veganer Mythos über Vitamin B12

Deutsch:

Vitamin B12 is produced by bacteria and can be directly taken as a supplement, instead of going through animals 🍔.

Non-vegan diets can lead to B12 deficiency just as easily, since B12 is sensitive to heat and is mostly lost during cooking 🍳.

Given our increasingly sterile food sources and the lack of soil-based bacteria, B12 supplementation is a wise choice to prevent deficiencies. For everyone 🌱👍!

👉🏽 Want to learn more about vegan nutrition or have questions? Let's discuss it in the comments! 💬🌱

"Vegans suffer from iron deficiency"

Explanation
A vegan diet can be rich in iron, especially through foods, like green vegetables, fresh herbs, legumes, seeds and whole grains. The key is a balanced diet and combining iron-rich foods with sources of vitamin C for better absorption.

🌱 Myth debunked! Are you ready to debunk more misconceptions? Follow for more! Share your questions and thoughts in the comments! 💬👇🏼

Veganer Mythos 2

"Veganer haben Eisenmangel!"

Aufklärung
Vegane Ernährung kann reich an Eisen sein, besonders durch Lebensmittel wie grünes Gemüse, frische Kräuter, Hülsenfrüchte, Samen und Vollkornprodukte. Der
Schlüssel ist eine ausgewogene
Ernährung und die Kombination von eisenreichen
Lebensmitteln mit Vitamin-C-Quellen für eine bessere Aufnahme.

🌱 Mythos entlarvt! Bist du bereit, weitere Missverständnisse zu klären? Dann folge mir! Teile deine Fragen und Gedanken in den Kommentaren! 💬👇🏼

Myth 1

"Veganism leads to protein deficiency!"
➡️ Explanation
The fact is, plant-based sources like legumes, nuts, seeds, kernels and tofu are rich in protein, and most vegans can easily meet their protein needs.
Protein deficiency is rare as long as you have a varied and fresh diet.

"🌱 Myth debunked! Are you ready to debunk more misconceptions? Follow for more! Share your questions and thoughts in the comments! 💬👇🏼

Deutsch

Mythos 1

"Veganismus führt zu Proteinmangel!

➡️ Aufklärung
Tatsache ist, dass pflanzliche Quellen wie Hülsenfrüchte, Nüsse, Samen Kerne und Tofu reich an Protein sind und die meisten Veganer leicht ihren
Proteinbedarf decken können. Proteinmangel tritt selten auf, solange man abwechslungsreich und frisch isst.

🌱 Mythos entlarvt! Bist du bereit, weitere Missverständnisse zu klären? Dann folge mir! Teile deine Fragen und Gedanken in den Kommentaren! 💬👇🏼