healthyholisticliving--2020-10-30--Fukushima Water Release Could Change Human DNA, Greenpeace Warns

In February 2020 , a government panel was put together by Prime Minister of Japan , Yoshihide Suga .
The panel ’ s job ?
To figure out how to dispose of the 1.2 million tons of water stored in 1,000 larger tanks , at Fukushima , a damaged and abandoned nuclear plant .
Their report suggested the water should be dumped into the Pacific Ocean .
This report has proved very unpopular–now Greenpeace is making a statement .
( 1 ) Why Is There So Much Water At Fukushima Daiichi ?
On March 11th , 2011 , a massive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a nearly 50-foot tsunami crashed into the power plant , causing major damage , and prompting the government to evacuate over 100,000 people from their homes nearby , to prevent illness from radiation .
Thankfully , the government has reported zero cases of sickness or death due to radiation , because of this quick action .
But that left the nuclear reactors .
So , the government started pumping recycled water into the cores to keep them cool .
Then , the Tokyo Electric Power Company , who is in charge of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water in tanks .
By 2022 , government officials say , they will have run out of room .
( 1 , 2 ) That ’ s the title of the new Greenpeace report , which starts off with a bang .
“ The Japanese government and the Tokyo Electric Power Company ( TEPCO ) have constructed a series of myths to support their plan , ” says the second paragraph of the report .
These myths ?
That by 2022 , there will be no further space for storage of the water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ radioactive tritium is the only radionuclide in the water and it is harmless ; and there are no alternatives to discharging the water into the ocean .
This report , as did our 2019 analysis , demonstrates that these statements are untrue .
If that didn ’ t seem aggressive enough , Greenpeace isn ’ t stopping there .
“ TEPCO and Japanese government bodies appear to have conspired to make the crisis worse , ” they say .
( 3 ) How Does It Impact Human DNA ?
One of the radioactive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which can be absorbed by all manner of things , including the fish people eat .
“ Once introduced into the environment , ” says Greenpeace .
“ Carbon-14 will be delivered to local , regional and global populations for many generations.
” ( 3 ) “ After a detailed examination of the evidence , Greenpeace has concluded that the only acceptable solution is continued long-term storage and processing of the contaminated water.
” Greenpeace has read another report , this one by Japan ’ s Ministry of Economy , Trade , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This report apparently says that there is room to store this contaminated water , both at Fukushima and elsewhere .
Unfortunately , the Japanese government decided against this , according to Greenpeace , because of the effort and time needed to coordinate .
Storing the water longer would allow for the “ radiological hazard ” of one of the contaminants , tritium , to decrease .
“ Tritium has a short half-life ( 12.3 years ) and .
.
.
METI ’ s own data shows that delaying the start of discharges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” says Greenpeace .
“ If discharges began in 2035 , they would be completed only three years later ( 2055 ) than if they were to begin in 2020.
” ( 3 )

In February 2020, a government panel was put together by Prime Minister of Japan, Yoshihide Suga. The panel’s job? To figure out how to dispose of the 1.2 million tons of water stored in 1,000 larger tanks, at Fukushima, a damaged and abandoned nuclear plant. Their report suggested the water should be dumped into the Pacific Ocean. This report has proved very unpopular–now Greenpeace is making a statement. (1)
Why Is There So Much Water At Fukushima Daiichi?
On March 11th, 2011, a massive earthquake rocked Japan. As a result, a nearly 50-foot tsunami crashed into the power plant, causing major damage, and prompting the government to evacuate over 100,000 people from their homes nearby, to prevent illness from radiation. Thankfully, the government has reported zero cases of sickness or death due to radiation, because of this quick action.
But that left the nuclear reactors. So, the government started pumping recycled water into the cores to keep them cool. Then, the Tokyo Electric Power Company, who is in charge of the water pumping, stores the now-contaminated water in tanks. By 2022, government officials say, they will have run out of room. (1, 2)
“The Reality Of The Fukushima Radioactive Water Crisis”
That’s the title of the new Greenpeace report, which starts off with a bang.
“The Japanese government and the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) have constructed a series of myths to support their plan,” says the second paragraph of the report. These myths?
That by 2022, there will be no further space for storage of the water; the water is not contaminated – radioactive tritium is the only radionuclide in the water and it is harmless; and there are no alternatives to discharging the water into the ocean. This report, as did our 2019 analysis, demonstrates that these statements are untrue.
If that didn’t seem aggressive enough, Greenpeace isn’t stopping there. “TEPCO and Japanese government bodies appear to have conspired to make the crisis worse,” they say. (3)
How Does It Impact Human DNA?
One of the radioactive materials in the water is carbon-14, which can be absorbed by all manner of things, including the fish people eat. “Once introduced into the environment,” says Greenpeace. “Carbon-14 will be delivered to local, regional and global populations for many generations.” (3)
The Greenpeace Solution
“After a detailed examination of the evidence, Greenpeace has concluded that the only acceptable solution is continued long-term storage and processing of the contaminated water.”
Greenpeace has read another report, this one by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry’s subcommittee on contaminated water. This report apparently says that there is room to store this contaminated water, both at Fukushima and elsewhere. Unfortunately, the Japanese government decided against this, according to Greenpeace, because of the effort and time needed to coordinate.
Storing the water longer would allow for the “radiological hazard” of one of the contaminants, tritium, to decrease. “Tritium has a short half-life (12.3 years) and . . . METI’s own data shows that delaying the start of discharges would allow the tritium to diminish naturally,” says Greenpeace. “If discharges began in 2035, they would be completed only three years later (2055) than if they were to begin in 2020.” (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-02--Worms Frozen For 42,000 Years In Siberian Permafrost Wriggle To Life

With Halloween behind us , I have to admit I need a few days to shake off a month-long binge of horror movies .
So when I read about 42,000-year-old worms “ wiggling ” to life somewhere in the frozen tundra of Siberia , it is only natural I felt a shiver thinking about the horror movie The Thing .
However , as November switches to Christmas mode , it gets easier to look at the scientific side of the story as opposed to say the science fiction potential of the whole thing .
The nematodes found in a sample @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set a record for the longest any animal survived a deep freeze .
( 1 ) Scientifically referred to as “ cryogenic preservation ” , the nematodes appeared in frozen soil samples collected by Russian biologists .
Each of the 300 samples collected represented a different age from different Arctic locations .
Upon studying the sample from remote northeastern Russia , two different genera of nematodes appeared .
( 1 ) This shows how remarkably hardy such a creature is – surviving millennia after millennia and nonchalantly coming back to life once warmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or 68 degrees Fahrenheit for a few weeks before they resurrected from the ice .
( 1 ) The nematodes are of the Panagrolaimus genus .
They lived 30 meters ( 100 feet ) down in a squirrel burrow which froze over about 32,000 years ago .
Another group is of the Plectus genus found 3.5 meters ( about 11.5 feet ) or so down showing an age of approximately 42,000 years when carbon dated .
( 1 ) Since these worms don ’ t tend to burrow this deep , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The warmest temperatures that stood a chance to awaken the worms happened about 9000 years ago .
These facts indicate the worms definitely nestled in for a long winter ’ s nap about 42,000 years ago .
( 1 ) While scientists do revive ancient organisms such as this , it doesn ’ t mean larger , more complicated species can survive in the same conditions .
For example back in 2000 , spores from Bacillus bacteria found in salt crystals revived after 250 million years .
A woolly mammoth or dinosaur let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be so lucky .
The tissue of such complicated species just wouldn ’ t survive over tens of thousands of years .
( 1 ) The nematode is a hardy creature and has been revived in the past .
However , those creatures found in herbarium samples were only about 39-years old .
Another worm type , the tardigrade , survive in extreme conditions and can repair broken DNA even once dried out .
But again , that record is only about 30 years of survival .
( 1 ) Scientists feel studying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into cryopreservation technologies .
Studies on other animals such as wood frogs have contributed to possible ways of storing human tissues used for transplants .
Of course , the possibility of an entire body ’ s preservation and revival can ’ t be overlooked .
( 1 ) “ It is obvious that this ability suggests that the Pleistocene nematodes have some adaptive mechanisms that may be of scientific and practical importance for the related fields of science , such as cryomedicine , cryobiology , and astrobiology , ” the researchers note in @ @ @ @ @ @

With Halloween behind us, I have to admit I need a few days to shake off a month-long binge of horror movies. So when I read about 42,000-year-old worms “wiggling” to life somewhere in the frozen tundra of Siberia, it is only natural I felt a shiver thinking about the horror movie The Thing. However, as November switches to Christmas mode, it gets easier to look at the scientific side of the story as opposed to say the science fiction potential of the whole thing. The nematodes found in a sample of permafrost sediment frozen for 42,000 years set a record for the longest any animal survived a deep freeze. (1)
Siberian Worms
Scientifically referred to as “cryogenic preservation”, the nematodes appeared in frozen soil samples collected by Russian biologists. Each of the 300 samples collected represented a different age from different Arctic locations. Upon studying the sample from remote northeastern Russia, two different genera of nematodes appeared. (1)
This shows how remarkably hardy such a creature is – surviving millennia after millennia and nonchalantly coming back to life once warmed. They reached about 20 degrees Celsius, or 68 degrees Fahrenheit for a few weeks before they resurrected from the ice. (1)
Siberian Worms 30 Meters Down
The nematodes are of the Panagrolaimus genus. They lived 30 meters (100 feet) down in a squirrel burrow which froze over about 32,000 years ago. Another group is of the Plectus genus found 3.5 meters (about 11.5 feet) or so down showing an age of approximately 42,000 years when carbon dated. (1)
Since these worms don’t tend to burrow this deep, the chance seasonal thawing occurred is unlikely. The warmest temperatures that stood a chance to awaken the worms happened about 9000 years ago. These facts indicate the worms definitely nestled in for a long winter’s nap about 42,000 years ago. (1)
Siberian Worms And Bacteria
While scientists do revive ancient organisms such as this, it doesn’t mean larger, more complicated species can survive in the same conditions. For example back in 2000, spores from Bacillus bacteria found in salt crystals revived after 250 million years. A woolly mammoth or dinosaur let alone a “caveman” would not be so lucky. The tissue of such complicated species just wouldn’t survive over tens of thousands of years. (1)
Siberian Worms Much Hardier
The nematode is a hardy creature and has been revived in the past. However, those creatures found in herbarium samples were only about 39-years old. Another worm type, the tardigrade, survive in extreme conditions and can repair broken DNA even once dried out. But again, that record is only about 30 years of survival. (1)
Siberian Worms Offer Valuable Insight
Scientists feel studying how the nematodes survived could offer insight into cryopreservation technologies. Studies on other animals such as wood frogs have contributed to possible ways of storing human tissues used for transplants. Of course, the possibility of an entire body’s preservation and revival can’t be overlooked. (1)
“It is obvious that this ability suggests that the Pleistocene nematodes have some adaptive mechanisms that may be of scientific and practical importance for the related fields of science, such as cryomedicine, cryobiology, and astrobiology,” the researchers note in their report. (1)
Cue spooky theremin music here.


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-02--Here’s What America Actually Cooks On Thanksgiving

We are getting close to one of the most traditional holidays of the year .
Thanksgiving not only reminds us of our heritage , but also of the delicious , mouth-watering foods that have been handed down through generations .
Almost everyone has their favorite Thanksgiving recipes , from grandmother ’ s cornbread stuffing to Aunt Lottie ’ s pecan pie .
In today ’ s world of specialty diets like vegan , gluten-free , paleo , and the long-standing vegetarian , it becomes more difficult to create a delicious and hearty Thanksgiving menu , especially if you have guests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these diets .
Expanding your menu to include fall fruits and vegetables often available at this time of year can help address this challenge .
• Turkey : is usually roasted .
If you are stuffing it , the roasting time will take longer .
A covered or uncovered roasting pan is your choice .
My favorite is the brown paper grocery bag !
It keeps the juices in , keeps the browning process from burning the skin before the meat is done , and is tossed in the trash when done @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toasted bread , celery , onion , and herbs like sage .
Or try adding oysters to this and baking in a separate dish .
Adding sausage , bacon , raisins , apples , or substituting cornbread for regular bread are also popular .
• Mashed potatoes : creamy and whipped .
Try adding color with some Peruvian purple potatoes .
• Gravy : use the juice and “ scrapings ” from the bottom of the roasting pan .
Heat slowly in a saucepan , adding flour to thicken .
Stir constantly until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which include the heart , gizzard , and liver .
• Candied yams : steamed then baked with butter , brown sugar , maybe applesauce , and nutmeg for added flavor .
• Green bean casserole : at the top of the list of vegetable recipes from the past .
Add mushroom soup as a sauce , top with crispy onion rings or slivered almonds , and bake .
• Cranberry sauce : finely chop fresh cranberries in a food processor , add orange pieces and some zest , sugar to taste and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ingredients to mix .
Don ’ t cook this simple recipe .
• Pumpkin pie : use your best crust recipe , adding pumpkin puree , sugar , and spices , bake .
A vegetarian does not eat any meat , poultry , game , fish , shellfish , or crustacean .
( 1 ) Vegans do not consume any animal products , including milk , eggs , or any kind of dairy product , such as cheese or butter .
( 2 ) Adding a selection of fall vegetables as either a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meatless folks at your table .
Keep the turkey .
Its tradition .
Just don ’ t make a tofu turkey , an option that was popular years ago .
A somewhat tasteless and amusing substitute for the real thing .
• Squashes : acorn and butternut are great for stuffing with your favorite fruits , veggies , nuts , and seasonings .
Pumpkin pureed from the roasted pieces makes a great soup .
• Brassicas : kohlrabi , cabbage , broccoli , Brussel sprouts , kale , and cauliflower all lend themselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like kohlrabi and cabbage .

We are getting close to one of the most traditional holidays of the year. Thanksgiving not only reminds us of our heritage, but also of the delicious, mouth-watering foods that have been handed down through generations. Almost everyone has their favorite Thanksgiving recipes, from grandmother’s cornbread stuffing to Aunt Lottie’s pecan pie.
In today’s world of specialty diets like vegan, gluten-free, paleo, and the long-standing vegetarian, it becomes more difficult to create a delicious and hearty Thanksgiving menu, especially if you have guests that may be on one or more of these diets. Expanding your menu to include fall fruits and vegetables often available at this time of year can help address this challenge.
Traditional Thanksgiving Menu
Turkey: is usually roasted. If you are stuffing it, the roasting time will take longer. A covered or uncovered roasting pan is your choice. My favorite is the brown paper grocery bag! It keeps the juices in, keeps the browning process from burning the skin before the meat is done, and is tossed in the trash when done. Easy. Stuffing: basic toasted bread, celery, onion, and herbs like sage. Or try adding oysters to this and baking in a separate dish. Adding sausage, bacon, raisins, apples, or substituting cornbread for regular bread are also popular. Mashed potatoes: creamy and whipped. Try adding color with some Peruvian purple potatoes. Gravy: use the juice and “scrapings” from the bottom of the roasting pan. Heat slowly in a saucepan, adding flour to thicken. Stir constantly until creamy. Add cut up giblets, which include the heart, gizzard, and liver. Candied yams: steamed then baked with butter, brown sugar, maybe applesauce, and nutmeg for added flavor. Green bean casserole: at the top of the list of vegetable recipes from the past. Add mushroom soup as a sauce, top with crispy onion rings or slivered almonds, and bake. Cranberry sauce: finely chop fresh cranberries in a food processor, add orange pieces and some zest, sugar to taste and let sit for several hours for the ingredients to mix. Don’t cook this simple recipe. Pumpkin pie: use your best crust recipe, adding pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices, bake.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
A vegetarian does not eat any meat, poultry, game, fish, shellfish, or crustacean. (1)
Vegans do not consume any animal products, including milk, eggs, or any kind of dairy product, such as cheese or butter. (2)
Adding a selection of fall vegetables as either a main or side dish should satisfy the meatless folks at your table. Keep the turkey. Its tradition. Just don’t make a tofu turkey, an option that was popular years ago. A somewhat tasteless and amusing substitute for the real thing.


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-05--Uncovering Food Fraud In The Olive And Avocado Oil Industries

What if I told you that a lot of the olive oil found on store shelves is mislabeled… and that the scope of food fraud in the olive oil industry is actually quite widespread ?
Would you believe me if I said that much of the olive oil industry , exactly like the drug trade , is controlled by the mafia ?
It sounds like some kind of strange movie plot , doesn ’ t it ?
But it ’ s real life , and it ’ s at a grocer near you .
Maybe even right in your own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in good company… avocado oil is not immune to fraudulent supply chains either .
In fact , a lot of foods are not what they seem to be at all .
This is unfortunate , given that labels are all we have to go on when assessing the nutritional content of the foods we buy .
Not to mention the food ’ s origin or the ingredients contained in the package .
If what we ’ re reading on the label is lies , where do we go from there ?
According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , “ Food fraud is the act of purposely altering , misrepresenting , mislabeling , substituting or tampering with any food product at any point along the farm–to–table food supply–chain .
Fraud can occur in the raw material , in an ingredient , in the final product or in the food ’ s packaging.
” ( 1 ) Food fraud has been a part of our world for a very long time .
In the 13th century , England made laws against diluting wine with water , adding ash to pepper , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far back as 1784 , food fraud and food adulteration have been hot topics of discussion in the US too .
( 1 ) Why is food fraud such a “ thing ” ?
Because in some ways it ’ s surprisingly easy to get away with .
Bottled oils , for example , are not regulated in the US .
In addition , the effects on the human body ( if any at all ) tend to be minimal .
And even when they aren ’ t minimal , the effects still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ’ s being consumed on a regular basis .
( 11 ) Where fraud in the rest of the food industry may be pretty easy to get away with , fraud in the oil industry seems to be like taking candy from a baby .
Perhaps you ’ ve heard of the Salad Oil Swindle of 1963 , where Bronx native Anthony “ Tino ” De Angelis swindled $ 180 million from investors .
He did it by filling his “ soybean oil ” tanks with water , adding an eensy bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It looked like soybean oil , but it was not at all , and De Angelis ’ investors were rightly miffed .
The authorities were involved , and the rest is history .
( 2 ) But somehow , in spite of this , there is still no regulation on this kind of food product .
The old “ little bit of oil , whole lot of water ” trick isn ’ t just for soybean oil .
This is but one of the ways that the avocado oil you buy may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to a 2020 report from UC Davis , most avocado oils sold in the US are of poor quality , mislabeled , or combined with other lesser-quality oils .
This was the first study in the US regarding avocado oil quality and purity , and what it revealed was alarming .
( 3 ) Could it have something to do with Mexico ’ s multibillion-dollar avocado industry ?
Though it doesn ’ t seem like the cartels ’ usual MO , in recent years avocados have become a prime target for them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farmland and even clearcutting protected land to plant their avocado crops , also known as “ green gold ” .
After taking control of an avocado orchard , criminal groups subsequently announce a tax on residents who own avocado trees , charging up to $ 250 a hectare in “ protection fees.
” It ’ s easy to see how this practice can lead to a whole lot of adulterated product , with the end-user paying a premium price for low quality and even fake merchandise .
( 4 ) Just like avocado @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connection as well .
As Forbes reported in 2016 , 80 % of olive oil on store shelves is fraudulent .
“ Agro mafia ” as it ’ s known , is now controlling most of the olive oil production and marketing , and in spite of Italy ’ s attempts to get a handle on it , they haven ’ t .
It permeates all markets throughout the world , and the US is a huge one , thanks to that lack of regulation .
( 11,12,13 ) According to Food Safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ten most adulterated foods in the United States were : Number one… what a sad and dubious distinction for olive oil .
( 1 ) Unfortunately , the food safety threat with respect to adulterated olive oil can be a huge one , possibly even life-threatening .
Many people cook with olive oil , so those with peanut allergies need to be on high alert .
Oftentimes when olive oil is diluted , it is done with peanut oil .
Depending on the severity of the allergy , by the time the adulteration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too late .
How Can Food Fraud Like This Happen ?
As mentioned , astonishingly , in the US there are no federal regulations on bottled oils .
So , as you might imagine , that leaves some pretty big loopholes .
And who is exceedingly good at taking advantage of loopholes ?
Those who aren ’ t exactly known for keeping their business affairs on the up and up , of course .
Though there is no federal regulation on bottled oils , certain US states are doing their part to adopt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
SB-634 is California ’ s way of ensuring that the olive oil that ’ s found in grocery stores there is authentic .
( 6 ) Should You Use Olive Or Avocado Oil ?
Clearly , there are moral questions surrounding this topic , and they are worth pondering .
The choices we make about where we spend our money , and what we choose to put into our bodies , ultimately do shape the kind of people we are .
But there isn ’ t just a moral side to what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeating that the food safety danger is very real for some people .
If you or someone you love has a peanut allergy , it may be wise to simply avoid these oils altogether .
If you ’ re trying to eat as healthfully as possible , avoiding oil in your diet is a clear step in the right direction .
But the flip side of that is that both olive and avocado oils add to the “ healthy eating conversation ” .
Both ( in their pure forms ) have low levels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vegetable oils .
The trick is to find it in its purest form and then not to faint from the sticker shock .
That ’ s another reason you may want to reconsider olive and avocado oil… the price you pay for the good stuff , is not the price you are used to paying for the stuff you ’ ve been getting from the mob .
One alternative may be to eat the whole fruit .
Olives are loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids , linked with lowering LDL ( “ bad ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your heart .
And though it is super creamy and rich , avocado is actually quite high in fiber with approximately 6-7 grams per half fruit .
This makes it great for aiding digestion and detoxification too .
( 7,8 ) If you want to buy quality and authentic avocado oil , here are some tips to keep in mind courtesy of researchers at UC Davis : Flavor : The flavor of virgin avocado oil can differ by varieties and region .
In general , authentic , fresh , virgin avocado oil tastes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit like mushrooms .
Color : Virgin avocado oil should be green in color , whereas refined avocado oil is light yellow and almost clear due to pigments removed during refining .
Size : Even good oil becomes rancid with time .
It ’ s important to purchase a reasonable size that can be finished before the oil oxidizes .
Store the oil away from light and heat .
A cool , dark cabinet is a good choice , rather than next to the stove .
Smell : How do you know if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to smell stale , sort of like play-dough .
Dates : When possible , choose an oil that ’ s closest to the harvest/production time to ensure maximum freshness .
The “ best before date ” is not always a reliable indicator of quality .
( 9 ) With all this talk of food fraud in olive oil , a kitchen staple , you may be questioning your ability to discern good from bad .
But we ’ ve got you covered with this simple list that will keep you on the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over to see where it ’ s from : It ’ s good to favor domestic , and not for political reasons .
Often , just to get the “ packed in Italy ” label , the products travel a great distance .
California furnishes 97 percent of the olive oil produced in the US , and there ’ s a good reason for that .
They do good work out there .
• None Look for the harvest date : Newer is better .
Olive oil goes rancid quickly , within 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if it is kept in optimal conditions .
If there is no harvest date , find yourself another bottle .
• None Look for seals of approval : Food fraud , particularly where olive oil is concerned , is becoming a much more mainstream topic .
In an effort to counter this , much like the state-specific regulations being passed , new methods of “ authentication ” are popping up .
For example in California , many olive oils are sent to the California Olive Oil Council ’ s panel of trained tasters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are given permission to use the COOC seal on their label .
( 10 ) Real Food For Life has done a good bit of the heavy lifting for us in terms of researching authentic extra virgin olive oil brands that we can trust .
Here is the list they came out within March of 2020 : If you don ’ t see your favorite brand listed here , don ’ t lose heart .
Check out the brand ’ s website , or contact them directly to ask if their olive oils @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 10 ) Here is the list that Real Food For Life suggests taking a pass on : DAGs and PPPs are two benchmark standards used by the International Olive Oil Council and the USDA to determine the quality vegetable oils .
The samples provided by the above brands had a reduced level of DAGs — 1,2-diacylglycerol and 1,3-diacylglycerol , breakdown products of triacylglycerols .
This means they were already oxidized , of poor quality , and/or degraded with cheaper refined oils .
Many of the samples also showed elevated levels of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also indicating they were oxidized and/or combined with cheaper refined oils .
( 10 ) The most obvious way to avoid food fraud is simply not to partake , but that ’ s not always the clear answer for us as individuals and families .
As the saying goes , knowledge is power .
The more you know the better you can do in life , and that ’ s certainly true in cases like this .
It ’ s easy to rest on our laurels , especially in the US where we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protection from the USDA , FDA and other regulatory agencies , but that just isn ’ t always the case .
The responsibility is on each of us to do the research for ourselves , like you ’ re doing now , to be better informed in the choices we make as we push our cart down aisle 3 .
As mentioned , the best way to avoid food fraud where bottled oils are concerned is simply to abstain from their use .
But that ’ s not the right answer for everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oils each offer benefits worth considering , and as far as cooking oils go , either one is a great choice .
If you want to make a responsible purchase , third party certified and free of adulteration , options are available .
Often a bit of digging is required , but you ’ re in luck !
Kasandrinos Olive Oil is 100 % organic , single-origin , and verified non-GMO .
It comes straight from the Kandrinos family in Greece , shipped to your doorstep with care .

What if I told you that a lot of the olive oil found on store shelves is mislabeled… and that the scope of food fraud in the olive oil industry is actually quite widespread? Would you believe me if I said that much of the olive oil industry, exactly like the drug trade, is controlled by the mafia? It sounds like some kind of strange movie plot, doesn’t it? But it’s real life, and it’s at a grocer near you. Maybe even right in your own kitchen. (13)
Olive oil is in good company… avocado oil is not immune to fraudulent supply chains either. In fact, a lot of foods are not what they seem to be at all. This is unfortunate, given that labels are all we have to go on when assessing the nutritional content of the foods we buy. Not to mention the food’s origin or the ingredients contained in the package. If what we’re reading on the label is lies, where do we go from there?
What is Food Fraud?
According to Food Safety Net Services (FSNS), “Food fraud is the act of purposely altering, misrepresenting, mislabeling, substituting or tampering with any food product at any point along the farm–to–table food supply–chain. Fraud can occur in the raw material, in an ingredient, in the final product or in the food’s packaging.” (1)
Food fraud has been a part of our world for a very long time. In the 13th century, England made laws against diluting wine with water, adding ash to pepper, and cutting flour with chalk. As far back as 1784, food fraud and food adulteration have been hot topics of discussion in the US too. (1)
Food Fraud In The Oil Industry
Why is food fraud such a “thing”? Because in some ways it’s surprisingly easy to get away with. Bottled oils, for example, are not regulated in the US. In addition, the effects on the human body (if any at all) tend to be minimal. And even when they aren’t minimal, the effects still can be hard to correlate with something that’s being consumed on a regular basis. (11)
Where fraud in the rest of the food industry may be pretty easy to get away with, fraud in the oil industry seems to be like taking candy from a baby. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Salad Oil Swindle of 1963, where Bronx native Anthony “Tino” De Angelis swindled $180 million from investors. He did it by filling his “soybean oil” tanks with water, adding an eensy bit of soybean oil on top for sheen. It looked like soybean oil, but it was not at all, and De Angelis’ investors were rightly miffed. The authorities were involved, and the rest is history. (2) But somehow, in spite of this, there is still no regulation on this kind of food product.
Fake Avocado Oil… For Real?
The old “little bit of oil, whole lot of water” trick isn’t just for soybean oil. This is but one of the ways that the avocado oil you buy may not quite be up to snuff. According to a 2020 report from UC Davis, most avocado oils sold in the US are of poor quality, mislabeled, or combined with other lesser-quality oils. This was the first study in the US regarding avocado oil quality and purity, and what it revealed was alarming. (3)
Could it have something to do with Mexico’s multibillion-dollar avocado industry? Though it doesn’t seem like the cartels’ usual MO, in recent years avocados have become a prime target for them. The drug cartels have been seizing farmland and even clearcutting protected land to plant their avocado crops, also known as “green gold”.
After taking control of an avocado orchard, criminal groups subsequently announce a tax on residents who own avocado trees, charging up to $250 a hectare in “protection fees.” It’s easy to see how this practice can lead to a whole lot of adulterated product, with the end-user paying a premium price for low quality and even fake merchandise. (4)
Really Fake Olive Oil, Too
Just like avocado oil, olive oil has a gangster connection as well. As Forbes reported in 2016, 80% of olive oil on store shelves is fraudulent. “Agro mafia” as it’s known, is now controlling most of the olive oil production and marketing, and in spite of Italy’s attempts to get a handle on it, they haven’t. It permeates all markets throughout the world, and the US is a huge one, thanks to that lack of regulation. (11,12,13)
According to Food Safety Net Services, in 2013 the top ten most adulterated foods in the United States were:
Olive oil Milk Honey Saffron Orange juice Coffee Apple juice Grape wine Tie: Vanilla extract and maple syrup
Number one… what a sad and dubious distinction for olive oil. (1)
Unfortunately, the food safety threat with respect to adulterated olive oil can be a huge one, possibly even life-threatening. Many people cook with olive oil, so those with peanut allergies need to be on high alert. Oftentimes when olive oil is diluted, it is done with peanut oil. Depending on the severity of the allergy, by the time the adulteration is detected, it could be way too late.
How Can Food Fraud Like This Happen?
As mentioned, astonishingly, in the US there are no federal regulations on bottled oils. So, as you might imagine, that leaves some pretty big loopholes. And who is exceedingly good at taking advantage of loopholes? Those who aren’t exactly known for keeping their business affairs on the up and up, of course.
Though there is no federal regulation on bottled oils, certain US states are doing their part to adopt these important food labeling laws for themselves. SB-634 is California’s way of ensuring that the olive oil that’s found in grocery stores there is authentic. (6)
Should You Use Olive Or Avocado Oil?
Clearly, there are moral questions surrounding this topic, and they are worth pondering. The choices we make about where we spend our money, and what we choose to put into our bodies, ultimately do shape the kind of people we are.
But there isn’t just a moral side to what we consume; it’s worth repeating that the food safety danger is very real for some people. If you or someone you love has a peanut allergy, it may be wise to simply avoid these oils altogether.
If you’re trying to eat as healthfully as possible, avoiding oil in your diet is a clear step in the right direction.
But the flip side of that is that both olive and avocado oils add to the “healthy eating conversation”. Both (in their pure forms) have low levels of saturated fat compared to other bottled vegetable oils.
The trick is to find it in its purest form and then not to faint from the sticker shock.
That’s another reason you may want to reconsider olive and avocado oil… the price you pay for the good stuff, is not the price you are used to paying for the stuff you’ve been getting from the mob.
One alternative may be to eat the whole fruit. Olives are loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids, linked with lowering LDL (“bad” cholesterol). They are great for your heart. And though it is super creamy and rich, avocado is actually quite high in fiber with approximately 6-7 grams per half fruit. This makes it great for aiding digestion and detoxification too. (7,8)
Choosing an Authentic Avocado Oil
If you want to buy quality and authentic avocado oil, here are some tips to keep in mind courtesy of researchers at UC Davis:
Flavor: The flavor of virgin avocado oil can differ by varieties and region. In general, authentic, fresh, virgin avocado oil tastes grassy, buttery, and a little bit like mushrooms.
Color: Virgin avocado oil should be green in color, whereas refined avocado oil is light yellow and almost clear due to pigments removed during refining.
Size: Even good oil becomes rancid with time. It’s important to purchase a reasonable size that can be finished before the oil oxidizes. Store the oil away from light and heat. A cool, dark cabinet is a good choice, rather than next to the stove.
Smell: How do you know if the oil is rancid? It starts to smell stale, sort of like play-dough.
Dates: When possible, choose an oil that’s closest to the harvest/production time to ensure maximum freshness. The “best before date” is not always a reliable indicator of quality. (9)
Choosing an Authentic Olive Oil
With all this talk of food fraud in olive oil, a kitchen staple, you may be questioning your ability to discern good from bad. But we’ve got you covered with this simple list that will keep you on the right track.
Turn the bottle over to see where it’s from: It’s good to favor domestic, and not for political reasons. Often, just to get the “packed in Italy” label, the products travel a great distance. California furnishes 97 percent of the olive oil produced in the US, and there’s a good reason for that. They do good work out there.
Look for the harvest date: Newer is better. Olive oil goes rancid quickly, within 2 years. And that’s only if it is kept in optimal conditions. If there is no harvest date, find yourself another bottle.
Look for seals of approval: Food fraud, particularly where olive oil is concerned, is becoming a much more mainstream topic. In an effort to counter this, much like the state-specific regulations being passed, new methods of “authentication” are popping up. For example in California, many olive oils are sent to the California Olive Oil Council’s panel of trained tasters. If their oil passes, producers are given permission to use the COOC seal on their label. (10)
Real Olive Oil Brands To Try
Real Food For Life has done a good bit of the heavy lifting for us in terms of researching authentic extra virgin olive oil brands that we can trust. Here is the list they came out within March of 2020:
Kasandrinos Olive Oil
Bariani Olive Oil
Kirkland Organic
Corto EVOO
Cobram Estate
California Olive Ranch
McEvoy Ranch Organic
Olea Estates
Ottavio
Chacewater California Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Ellora Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Partanna Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Lodi Frantoio Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Casina Rossa Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Papa Vince Olive Oil Extra Virgin
Knolive Epicure
Tuscan Gold Eleganza
Anatomico Organic Coratina EVOO
Selección Familiar
Oro Bailen Family Reserve
TERRA Delyssa
Venta del Baron Award Winning Cold Pressed EVOO
If you don’t see your favorite brand listed here, don’t lose heart. Check out the brand’s website, or contact them directly to ask if their olive oils are inspected by a 3rd-party for purity. (10)
Olive Oil Brands to Avoid
Here is the list that Real Food For Life suggests taking a pass on:
Carapelli
Mezzetta
Pompeian
Mazola
Primadonna
Colavita
Sasso
Antica
Badia
Star
Whole Foods
Filippo Berio
Safeway
Coricelli
Bertolli
DAGs and PPPs are two benchmark standards used by the International Olive Oil Council and the USDA to determine the quality vegetable oils. The samples provided by the above brands had a reduced level of DAGs — 1,2-diacylglycerol and 1,3-diacylglycerol, breakdown products of triacylglycerols. This means they were already oxidized, of poor quality, and/or degraded with cheaper refined oils. Many of the samples also showed elevated levels of PPPs, breakdown products of chlorophyll, also indicating they were oxidized and/or combined with cheaper refined oils. (10)
Avoiding Food Fraud In Vegetable Oil
The most obvious way to avoid food fraud is simply not to partake, but that’s not always the clear answer for us as individuals and families.
As the saying goes, knowledge is power. The more you know the better you can do in life, and that’s certainly true in cases like this. It’s easy to rest on our laurels, especially in the US where we have (what we believe is) protection from the USDA, FDA and other regulatory agencies, but that just isn’t always the case.
The responsibility is on each of us to do the research for ourselves, like you’re doing now, to be better informed in the choices we make as we push our cart down aisle 3.
Editor’s Note:
As mentioned, the best way to avoid food fraud where bottled oils are concerned is simply to abstain from their use. But that’s not the right answer for everyone. In fact, olive and avocado oils each offer benefits worth considering, and as far as cooking oils go, either one is a great choice. If you want to make a responsible purchase, third party certified and free of adulteration, options are available. Often a bit of digging is required, but you’re in luck! Kasandrinos Olive Oil is 100% organic, single-origin, and verified non-GMO. It comes straight from the Kandrinos family in Greece, shipped to your doorstep with care.


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-04--High Vitamin A, E, and D Intake Linked To Fewer Respiratory Complaints In Adults

The lungs and respiratory system are an important part of the body .
You can ’ t live without them .
There ’ s debate on how many days you can survive without food , how many without water .
But , for oxygen ?
More than a few minutes and you ’ re done .
And with COVID-19 , the awareness around respiratory issues is higher than ever .
However , by upping your intake of just a few vitamins , you can help prevent respiratory illnesses from striking .
Interestingly , United Kingdom Secretary of Health and Social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examination of vitamin D as a way to fight against coronavirus .
Before , Secretary Hancock had dismissed vitamin D as being ineffective .
Now , a self-reported study found that vitamin D actually can help with respiratory issues–but it depends on the form it takes .
Surprisingly , vitamin D from your diet won ’ t help at all .
On the other hand , vitamin D in supplement form will .
Lead in science communications for the UK ’ s COVID-19 taskforce , Shane McAuliffe , says that , “ acknowledging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does add further to a growing body of interest and evidence for the role of vitamin D in respiratory health.
” He also thinks that “ with the low cost and low risk of adverse events , it seems sensible to provide supplementation of this key vitamin , particularly to those most likely to be deficient.
” ( 1 ) The Survey 8 Years In The Making Starting in 2008 , the National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme ( NDNS RP ) began .
Concluding in 2016 , this eight-year examination collected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explains that “ the NDNS RP is a rolling survey that collects information annually on all food and drink consumed from around 1000 randomly selected people living in private households across the UK.
” Because the information was self-reported , the respiratory conditions given were broad in scope and not necessarily confirmed by doctors .
Both long and short-term conditions were reported , including things like colds .
33 people in the study reported themselves to have respiratory disorders .
( 1 ) Unlike vitamin D , vitamin A & E could help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplement form and from diet .
MDLinx says that “ major dietary sources of vitamin A include liver , whole milk , and cheese , as well as carrots , dark green leafy vegetables , and orange-colored fruits .
Major dietary sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils , nuts , and seeds.
” Furthermore , the respondents with respiratory complaints were much less likely to be taking supplements for vitamins A , E , or D. ( 2 ) “ Further research is required to assess the implications of the current study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease 2019 pandemic using data from longitudinal cohorts , ” writes the study ’ s authors .
“ Our study also highlights the need for further data collection on nutrition and respiratory disorders to cover wider geographical areas and high-risk groups , including a focus on other ethnicities.
” Furthermore , the study examined how BMI might impact results .
There were no statistically significant links between either BMI and vitamin intake or BMI and respiratory difficulties .
( 2 )

The lungs and respiratory system are an important part of the body. You can’t live without them. There’s debate on how many days you can survive without food, how many without water. But, for oxygen? More than a few minutes and you’re done. And with COVID-19, the awareness around respiratory issues is higher than ever. However, by upping your intake of just a few vitamins, you can help prevent respiratory illnesses from striking.
A Bigger Vitamin D Intake
Interestingly, United Kingdom Secretary of Health and Social Care, Matt Hancock called for an examination of vitamin D as a way to fight against coronavirus. Before, Secretary Hancock had dismissed vitamin D as being ineffective.
Now, a self-reported study found that vitamin D actually can help with respiratory issues–but it depends on the form it takes. Surprisingly, vitamin D from your diet won’t help at all. On the other hand, vitamin D in supplement form will.
Lead in science communications for the UK’s COVID-19 taskforce, Shane McAuliffe, says that, “acknowledging the limitations of this data, it does add further to a growing body of interest and evidence for the role of vitamin D in respiratory health.”
He also thinks that “with the low cost and low risk of adverse events, it seems sensible to provide supplementation of this key vitamin, particularly to those most likely to be deficient.” (1)
A Higher Vitamin A & E Intake
The Survey 8 Years In The Making
Starting in 2008, the National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme (NDNS RP) began. Concluding in 2016, this eight-year examination collected data from 6115 adults.
Website MDLinx explains that “the NDNS RP is a rolling survey that collects information annually on all food and drink consumed from around 1000 randomly selected people living in private households across the UK.”
Because the information was self-reported, the respiratory conditions given were broad in scope and not necessarily confirmed by doctors. Both long and short-term conditions were reported, including things like colds.
33 people in the study reported themselves to have respiratory disorders. (1)
How Did Vitamins A & E work?
Unlike vitamin D, vitamin A & E could help prevent respiratory ailments when ingested both through supplement form and from diet. MDLinx says that “major dietary sources of vitamin A include liver, whole milk, and cheese, as well as carrots, dark green leafy vegetables, and orange-colored fruits. Major dietary sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.”
Furthermore, the respondents with respiratory complaints were much less likely to be taking supplements for vitamins A, E, or D. (2)
Implications
“Further research is required to assess the implications of the current study in the context of the current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic using data from longitudinal cohorts,” writes the study’s authors. “Our study also highlights the need for further data collection on nutrition and respiratory disorders to cover wider geographical areas and high-risk groups, including a focus on other ethnicities.”
Furthermore, the study examined how BMI might impact results. There were no statistically significant links between either BMI and vitamin intake or BMI and respiratory difficulties. (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-04--What Our Children Need To Know About Love

As parents , it ’ s important to avoid teaching our kids stereotypes .
I think it ’ s part of learning tolerance .
Unfortunately , generation after generation passes on stereotypical views that are hard to shake .
Interestingly , one of those stereotypes is the idea of love .
Looking back on my own lifetime , the idea of love is highly romanticized and made out to be the saving grace for all .
Especially women .
Hallmark movies send cheesy messages that love is usually found as a result of a past misunderstanding , or with someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have that same sort of storyline , often with “ stalkerish ” undertones that make men ( and women for that matter ) think if they endlessly pursue someone who clearly has no interest , love shall prevail .
The happy ending ?
She ’ ll eventually fall into his arms , or even worse , his bed .
So when it comes to stereotypes of romantic love , our kids can really get emotionally misguided on the whole idea .
A child ’ s first impression of love is usually from his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — from affection to forgiveness and communication to respect .
So as parents we need to remain conscious of what we inadvertently teach our kids about love .
More importantly , we should teach them things that will make their relationships healthier .
( 1 , 2 ) No , it ’ s not .
While this schoolyard myth pops up all the time , bullying should never be associated with love .
This sends a message abuse is healthy and acceptable .
( 2 ) Love Needs Give And Take We smother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fail to send the message about give and take .
We should nurture our kid ’ s ability to give back in relationships , so they learn the importance of kindness and compromise .
( 2 ) Sacrificing who we are to please someone we love causes us to love ourselves less .
Love is not bowing down to our romantic partners .
Instead , it is about mutual respect and never losing ourselves in a relationship .
The trick is teaching our kids to love themselves , but not be selfish .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to love others , and avoid the people who want to change us to suit their needs .
( 2 ) Without respect , love can ’ t prevail .
Relationships , where partners treat each other horribly and disrespectfully , are toxic .
( 2 ) Love Doesn ’ t Have To Last Forever This is an important one .
If I ’ ve learned anything it ’ s that there is no happily ever after .
Happiness is a gift that comes and goes in our lives .
When we find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should nurture that love and cherish those people .
However , we also have to realize people change throughout their lives , and finding “ the one ” who will turn every corner at the exact same time we do is close to impossible .
Although failed relationships can leave scars , the happy moments they bring should be cherished .
The bad times teach us important life experiences that help us avoid the same mistakes .
Recognizing the relationships we should nurture and those we should end is a challenge I feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 ) This is the worst one .
Because this one hurts .
Unrequited love is possibly the saddest thing we can experience , but it is survivable .
And this is where those romantic movies really need to be tied to a chair and forced to listen to some not so great things about the world ; you can ’ t force someone to love you by stalking them , showing up unexpectedly , sending them flowers , interfering in their lives , trying to sabotage their relationships or finding yourselves on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When someone you love doesn ’ t feel the same way , you have to learn to let it go .
It ’ s hard , but the best way to avoid ongoing hurt .
As that hurt slowly fades you can open your heart to someone new — if you want , you don ’ t have to , but it could be nice .
( 2 )

As parents, it’s important to avoid teaching our kids stereotypes. I think it’s part of learning tolerance. Unfortunately, generation after generation passes on stereotypical views that are hard to shake. Interestingly, one of those stereotypes is the idea of love. Looking back on my own lifetime, the idea of love is highly romanticized and made out to be the saving grace for all. Especially women.
Hallmark movies send cheesy messages that love is usually found as a result of a past misunderstanding, or with someone we immediately dislike. Many romantic comedies have that same sort of storyline, often with “stalkerish” undertones that make men (and women for that matter) think if they endlessly pursue someone who clearly has no interest, love shall prevail.
The happy ending? She’ll eventually fall into his arms, or even worse, his bed. So when it comes to stereotypes of romantic love, our kids can really get emotionally misguided on the whole idea. A child’s first impression of love is usually from his parent’s relationship(s) — from affection to forgiveness and communication to respect. So as parents we need to remain conscious of what we inadvertently teach our kids about love. More importantly, we should teach them things that will make their relationships healthier. (1, 2)
Hitting And Teasing Is Love
No, it’s not. While this schoolyard myth pops up all the time, bullying should never be associated with love. This sends a message abuse is healthy and acceptable. (2)
Love Needs Give And Take
We smother our kids with unconditional love but might fail to send the message about give and take. We should nurture our kid’s ability to give back in relationships, so they learn the importance of kindness and compromise. (2)
Loving Yourself
Sacrificing who we are to please someone we love causes us to love ourselves less. Love is not bowing down to our romantic partners. Instead, it is about mutual respect and never losing ourselves in a relationship. The trick is teaching our kids to love themselves, but not be selfish. Loving who we are makes it easier to love others, and avoid the people who want to change us to suit their needs. (2)
Love Requires Respect
Without respect, love can’t prevail. Relationships, where partners treat each other horribly and disrespectfully, are toxic. (2)
Love Doesn’t Have To Last Forever
This is an important one. If I’ve learned anything it’s that there is no happily ever after. Happiness is a gift that comes and goes in our lives. When we find love that makes us happy, we should nurture that love and cherish those people. However, we also have to realize people change throughout their lives, and finding “the one” who will turn every corner at the exact same time we do is close to impossible. Although failed relationships can leave scars, the happy moments they bring should be cherished. The bad times teach us important life experiences that help us avoid the same mistakes. Recognizing the relationships we should nurture and those we should end is a challenge I feel none of us master completely! (2)
Loving Someone Doesn’t Guarantee They’ll Love You Back
This is the worst one. Because this one hurts. Unrequited love is possibly the saddest thing we can experience, but it is survivable. And this is where those romantic movies really need to be tied to a chair and forced to listen to some not so great things about the world; you can’t force someone to love you by stalking them, showing up unexpectedly, sending them flowers, interfering in their lives, trying to sabotage their relationships or finding yourselves on some “zany” cross country chase. When someone you love doesn’t feel the same way, you have to learn to let it go. It’s hard, but the best way to avoid ongoing hurt. As that hurt slowly fades you can open your heart to someone new — if you want, you don’t have to, but it could be nice. (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-04--Recently Discovered Dinosaur ‘Mummy’ Is So Well-Preserved It Even Has The Skin And Guts Intact

Scientists have hailed the wondrous discovery of a dinosaur so mummified even its skin and guts are still intact .
The find is said to be the best-preserved dinosaur specimen ever discovered , with one researcher proudly announcing .
“ We have a dinosaur as it would have been.
” The nodosaur takes pride of place at the dinosaur exhibit within the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology in Alberta , Canada .
The museum declares itself as Canada ’ s only museum “ dedicated exclusively to the study of ancient life.
” The dinosaur was aptly named Borealopelta markmitchelli in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mitchell , who spent over six years and 7000 hours prepping the fossil .
By slowly and gently removing rock from around the find , the specimen represents the best-preserved armored dinosaur ever found and one of the best dinosaur specimens in the world , researchers say .
( 1 ) Nodosaurids are closely related to the Ankylosauridae family of armored dinosaurs that evolved 125 million years ago .
They became extinct roughly 65 million years ago during the Cretaceous-Tertiary extinction .
This was a period where catastrophic events such as huge asteroid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have caused a significant disruption in the earth ’ s ecology .
( 2 ) Remains have been found in North America , Europe and East Asia .
Good specimens are rare and quite often only bones or bone fragments are found .
The nodosaurids were heavily armored , plant-eating herbivore dinosaurs .
They had a club-like tail and a body covered in hulking scales and rigid spikes .
This they used for protection against the huge carnivorous predators around at the time .
The well-preserved animal weighed in at approximately 2500 pounds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it actually walked the earth 110 million years ago .
( 3 ) Accidentally found by excavators digging in an oil sands mine in 2011 , scientists theorize the nodosaur may have been swept away by a torrential flood and carried out to sea .
After millions of years , minerals may have settled on the armor and skin , thus preserving the creature until the day it was re-discovered .
The discovery was so unique being preserved in three dimensions , means the original shape was miraculously retained .
Such was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to tell the dinosaur ’ s dark reddish-brown skin color using a technique called mass spectrometry to detect pigmentation .
The skin color was most likely used as camouflage to protect it from the gigantic carnivores of the time .
Known as countershading , this form of camouflage is seen in a number of animals today , including penguins and deer .
Countershading in animals suggests they are under pressure from predators .
Despite the enormous size of the discovered nodosaur , the two-toned pigment showed it was probably under significant stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Dinosaur ‘ Mummy ’ Researchers are now looking into the nodosaur ’ s stomach .
Trying to speculate about what it may have eaten for its last meal , before being washed out to sea .
They also hope to study the dinosaur ’ s body armor more closely .
Caleb Brown , a scientist at the museum said .
“ It will go down in science history as one of the most beautiful and best-preserved dinosaur specimens – the Mona Lisa of dinosaurs.
” ( 3 )

Scientists have hailed the wondrous discovery of a dinosaur so mummified even its skin and guts are still intact. The find is said to be the best-preserved dinosaur specimen ever discovered, with one researcher proudly announcing. “We have a dinosaur as it would have been.”
The nodosaur takes pride of place at the dinosaur exhibit within the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology in Alberta, Canada. The museum declares itself as Canada’s only museum “dedicated exclusively to the study of ancient life.”
The dinosaur was aptly named Borealopelta markmitchelli in honor of the museum technician, Mark Mitchell, who spent over six years and 7000 hours prepping the fossil. By slowly and gently removing rock from around the find, the specimen represents the best-preserved armored dinosaur ever found and one of the best dinosaur specimens in the world, researchers say. (1)
Dinosaur ‘Mummy’ Family
Nodosaurids are closely related to the Ankylosauridae family of armored dinosaurs that evolved 125 million years ago. They became extinct roughly 65 million years ago during the Cretaceous-Tertiary extinction. This was a period where catastrophic events such as huge asteroid impacts and/or increased massive volcanic activity may have caused a significant disruption in the earth’s ecology. (2)
Remains have been found in North America, Europe and East Asia. Good specimens are rare and quite often only bones or bone fragments are found.
The nodosaurids were heavily armored, plant-eating herbivore dinosaurs. They had a club-like tail and a body covered in hulking scales and rigid spikes. This they used for protection against the huge carnivorous predators around at the time.
The well-preserved animal weighed in at approximately 2500 pounds, only 500 pounds lighter than when it actually walked the earth 110 million years ago. (3)
Dinosaur ‘Mummy’ Discovery
Accidentally found by excavators digging in an oil sands mine in 2011, scientists theorize the nodosaur may have been swept away by a torrential flood and carried out to sea. After millions of years, minerals may have settled on the armor and skin, thus preserving the creature until the day it was re-discovered. The discovery was so unique being preserved in three dimensions, means the original shape was miraculously retained.
Such was the quality of the preservation, researchers were able to tell the dinosaur’s dark reddish-brown skin color using a technique called mass spectrometry to detect pigmentation. The skin color was most likely used as camouflage to protect it from the gigantic carnivores of the time. Known as countershading, this form of camouflage is seen in a number of animals today, including penguins and deer. Countershading in animals suggests they are under pressure from predators. Despite the enormous size of the discovered nodosaur, the two-toned pigment showed it was probably under significant stress. (3)
Further Research On The Dinosaur ‘Mummy’
Researchers are now looking into the nodosaur’s stomach. Trying to speculate about what it may have eaten for its last meal, before being washed out to sea. They also hope to study the dinosaur’s body armor more closely.
Caleb Brown, a scientist at the museum said. “It will go down in science history as one of the most beautiful and best-preserved dinosaur specimens – the Mona Lisa of dinosaurs.” (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-03--Sean Connery’s Widow Reveals Actor Struggled With Dementia Before His Death: ‘It Was No Life for Him

Sean Connery’s Widow Reveals Actor Struggled With Dementia Before His Death: ‘It Was No Life for Him’

Sean Connery was an actor best known for portraying the rough , yet very suave ‘ 007 ’ in a series of seven Bond films .
He died peacefully at his home in the Bahamas last week , aged 90 , with his wife of 44 years , Micheline Roquebrune at his side .
Roquebrune paid tribute to her ‘ gorgeous model of a man ’ saying they ‘ had a wonderful life together.
’ Sharing that he had been diagnosed with dementia , Micheline admitted ‘ It was no life for him .
He was not able to express @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his sleep and it was just so peaceful .
I was with him all the time and he just slipped away.
’ She went on to say ‘ It is going to be very hard without him , I know that .
But it could not last forever , and he went peacefully.
’ ( 1 , 2 ) Born Thomas Sean Connery in 1930 , in Fountainbridge , Scotland , young Connery had many early jobs such as milkman , lorry driver , laborer , artist ’ s model , coffin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Royal Navy but was discharged because of medical problems .
At 23 , he had a choice between becoming a professional footballer or an actor .
He chose acting , later saying it was one of his more intelligent moves .
This move stretched a successful career crossing generations .
Connery ’ s mischievous eyes , charismatic appeal , and his unique brand of coolness ( often delivered in silly lines and puns ) kept fans captivated for over 50 years .
Sean Connery ’ s first acting credit came in 1957 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Road Back .
His final movie role was in 2003 , as Allan Quartermain , in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen , where he starred and produced .
The most popular movie roles included Highlander ( 1986 ) , The Untouchables ( 1987 ) , Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade ( 1989 ) , The Rock ( 1996 ) , and Entrapment ( 1999 ) .
Sean Connery ’ s dedication to the arts went on to make him a suitable candidate for knighthood by the Queen in 2000 .
In 2012 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from retirement to voice an aging , skateboarding veterinarian on a mission to save Scotland ’ s last beaver .
Connery did not visually appear but lent his famous voice to the character Sir Billi .
He did this to please his four grandchildren , one from his first marriage to Diane Cilento , and three of Roquebrune ’ s .
It also allowed him to support smaller filmmakers , from the comfort of his home .
( 3 , 4 , 5 . )
As a staunch supporter of Scottish Independence , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SNP party .
He also donated a large portion of his earnings to the Scottish International Education Trust , to help students from poor backgrounds like his own .
He was touched when , in 1991 , he was awarded the Freedom of Edinburgh .
“ Every time I come back I always get a terrific charge , coming back to Scotland.
” Along with his wife , he relocated to the Bahamas in 1998 where the couple become involved in environmental protection efforts .
Some of his other cute accolades include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ in 1989 , and then again ‘ Sexiest Man of the Century ’ in 1999 .
One thing ’ s for sure , many of us can recognize that Connery lived a long , successful , and very happy life , and with this in mind we can all be a little shaken , but not too stirred by the sad news of his death .
( 6 , 7 , 8 )

Sean Connery was an actor best known for portraying the rough, yet very suave ‘007’ in a series of seven Bond films. He died peacefully at his home in the Bahamas last week, aged 90, with his wife of 44 years, Micheline Roquebrune at his side.
Roquebrune paid tribute to her ‘gorgeous model of a man’ saying they ‘had a wonderful life together.’ Sharing that he had been diagnosed with dementia, Micheline admitted ‘It was no life for him. He was not able to express himself latterly. At least he died in his sleep and it was just so peaceful. I was with him all the time and he just slipped away.’
She went on to say ‘It is going to be very hard without him, I know that. But it could not last forever, and he went peacefully.’ (1, 2)
Connery’s Coolness Captivated
Born Thomas Sean Connery in 1930, in Fountainbridge, Scotland, young Connery had many early jobs such as milkman, lorry driver, laborer, artist’s model, coffin polisher, and bodybuilder. He joined the Royal Navy but was discharged because of medical problems. At 23, he had a choice between becoming a professional footballer or an actor. He chose acting, later saying it was one of his more intelligent moves.
This move stretched a successful career crossing generations. Connery’s mischievous eyes, charismatic appeal, and his unique brand of coolness (often delivered in silly lines and puns) kept fans captivated for over 50 years.
Sean Connery’s first acting credit came in 1957 in the British gangster film, No Road Back. His final movie role was in 2003, as Allan Quartermain, in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, where he starred and produced.
The most popular movie roles included Highlander (1986), The Untouchables (1987), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), The Rock (1996), and Entrapment (1999).
Sean Connery’s dedication to the arts went on to make him a suitable candidate for knighthood by the Queen in 2000.
In 2012, he then took a surprise break from retirement to voice an aging, skateboarding veterinarian on a mission to save Scotland’s last beaver. Connery did not visually appear but lent his famous voice to the character Sir Billi. He did this to please his four grandchildren, one from his first marriage to Diane Cilento, and three of Roquebrune’s. It also allowed him to support smaller filmmakers, from the comfort of his home. (3, 4, 5.)
The Success Of Sean Connery
As a staunch supporter of Scottish Independence, Connery donated nearly £5000 every month to the SNP party. He also donated a large portion of his earnings to the Scottish International Education Trust, to help students from poor backgrounds like his own.
He was touched when, in 1991, he was awarded the Freedom of Edinburgh. “Every time I come back I always get a terrific charge, coming back to Scotland.” Along with his wife, he relocated to the Bahamas in 1998 where the couple become involved in environmental protection efforts.
Some of his other cute accolades include -People Magazine award ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ in 1989, and then again ‘Sexiest Man of the Century’ in 1999.
One thing’s for sure, many of us can recognize that Connery lived a long, successful, and very happy life, and with this in mind we can all be a little shaken, but not too stirred by the sad news of his death. ( 6, 7, 8)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-03--Pet Stores In San Antonio Will Soon Be Required To Only Sell Shelter Pets

San Antonio ’ s City Council has approved an ordinance that will prohibit pet stores from selling dogs and cats that come from breeders .
Instead , they will only be able to sell cats and dogs that come from shelters .
Supporters of the ordinance hope that it will give shelter pets a chance at a new life .
( 1 , 2 ) Katie Jarl Coyle , the southwest regional director for the Humane Society of the United States , commented to the San Antonio Express News , “ This ordinance will help drive the pet market toward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be part of the pet overpopulation solution.
” ( 1 ) Proponents of the ordinance hope that it will help to limit sales from large , commercial dog-breeding businesses , which are also known as “ puppy mills.
” This type of breeder is not allowed to operate within San Antonio city limits .
But Jarl Coyle says that puppies from these breeders still end up in San Antonio pet stores .
( 2 ) There are also concerns about how lockdowns related to COVID-19 will affect San Antonio ’ s already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Some fear that people will abandon their pets when they are unable to afford their upkeep .
There ’ s also the possibility that people will use their dogs to breed and sell puppies to make extra money .
This could also worsen overpopulation .
( 1 ) The overpopulation issue is so bad that more than 17,000 bodies of deceased dogs and cats were removed from San Antonio ’ s streets between October 2019 and September 2020 .
When Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran learned this news , she moved the date that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier .
It will now begin January 2021 instead of July 2021 .
( 1 ) But not everyone supports the shelter pets ordinance .
Some people don ’ t believe it will actually fix the city ’ s dog and cat overpopulation issue .
( 1 ) Councilwoman Shirley Gonzalez did not support the ordinance .
“ I just don ’ t see how the ordinance really gets to the source of the problems that we have here in San Antonio , ” she said in an interview with UNILAD .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s no doubt .
We know that we have problems with loose dogs .
We have a severe problem with pet ownership responsibility.
” ( 1 ) Of the 51 pet stores in San Antonio , only three sell purebred dogs and cats .
Jessica Loven is the owner of one of them .
Puppy sales are a big part of the revenue for her store , Royal Pet Palace .
Loven says that she only uses quality breeders and that her puppies come from several different states .
She doesn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to sell shelter pets instead of purebred ones .
( 2 ) Instead , cutting off Loven ’ s ability to sell purebred puppies could lead her to move her business out of San Antonio .
“ So it ’ s not necessarily going to get rid of us , but it ’ s just going to move us outside of the city limit , ” Loven told KSAT .
( 2 ) Private licensed breeders will still be allowed to breed dogs and cats .
Heber Lefgren is the Director of Animal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Breeders will still continue to breed , but they must follow the humane breeding practices and obtain the required sellers permit and breeding permit that ’ s associated with that.
” ( 2 )

San Antonio Pet Stores Can Only Sell Shelter Pets
San Antonio’s City Council has approved an ordinance that will prohibit pet stores from selling dogs and cats that come from breeders. Instead, they will only be able to sell cats and dogs that come from shelters. Supporters of the ordinance hope that it will give shelter pets a chance at a new life. (1, 2)
Katie Jarl Coyle, the southwest regional director for the Humane Society of the United States, commented to the San Antonio Express News, “This ordinance will help drive the pet market toward more humane sources and encourage pet stores to be part of the pet overpopulation solution.” (1)
Proponents of the ordinance hope that it will help to limit sales from large, commercial dog-breeding businesses, which are also known as “puppy mills.” This type of breeder is not allowed to operate within San Antonio city limits. But Jarl Coyle says that puppies from these breeders still end up in San Antonio pet stores. (2)
Shelter Pets Overpopulation
There are also concerns about how lockdowns related to COVID-19 will affect San Antonio’s already overwhelming dog and cat overpopulation problem. Some fear that people will abandon their pets when they are unable to afford their upkeep. There’s also the possibility that people will use their dogs to breed and sell puppies to make extra money. This could also worsen overpopulation. (1)
The overpopulation issue is so bad that more than 17,000 bodies of deceased dogs and cats were removed from San Antonio’s streets between October 2019 and September 2020. When Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran learned this news, she moved the date that the ordinance would come into effect six months earlier. It will now begin January 2021 instead of July 2021. (1)
Issues with the Ordinance
But not everyone supports the shelter pets ordinance. Some people don’t believe it will actually fix the city’s dog and cat overpopulation issue. (1)
Councilwoman Shirley Gonzalez did not support the ordinance. “I just don’t see how the ordinance really gets to the source of the problems that we have here in San Antonio,” she said in an interview with UNILAD. “We know we have overpopulation, there’s no doubt. We know that we have problems with loose dogs. We have a severe problem with pet ownership responsibility.” (1)
Of the 51 pet stores in San Antonio, only three sell purebred dogs and cats. Jessica Loven is the owner of one of them. Puppy sales are a big part of the revenue for her store, Royal Pet Palace. Loven says that she only uses quality breeders and that her puppies come from several different states. She doesn’t plan to change her business model to sell shelter pets instead of purebred ones. (2)
Instead, cutting off Loven’s ability to sell purebred puppies could lead her to move her business out of San Antonio. “So it’s not necessarily going to get rid of us, but it’s just going to move us outside of the city limit,” Loven told KSAT. (2)
Private licensed breeders will still be allowed to breed dogs and cats. Heber Lefgren is the Director of Animal Care Services. He told KSAT, “Breeders will still continue to breed, but they must follow the humane breeding practices and obtain the required sellers permit and breeding permit that’s associated with that.” (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-03--Quick Strawberry Bread with Gluten-Free and Vegan Options.

The brightly-colored red strawberry is not only attractive and delicious .
At the same time , it is also packed with antioxidants , vitamins , and fiber .
The best part , they can be enjoyed in so many different ways .
Think chocolate coated strawberries , strawberry tarts , strawberry mousse .
You can even add them to salads , oatmeal , granola , etc .
Here , I would like to share a delicious strawberry bread recipe with you .
True , most bread is on the salty side , but there ’ s banana bread too .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for those that want to enjoy a guilt-free sweet treat .
• None Turn the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan • None Mix the milk , sugar , egg , oil , and vanilla or almond extract in a medium bowl .
• None In a different container combine baking powder , salt , and flour .
• None Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones .
Do not over mix .
• None Coat well the diced strawberries with the 2 tbsp .
of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strawberries lightly into the batter .
• None Transfer the batter into the butter greased pan .
• None Bake for 50–55 minutes ( you can cover it with aluminum foil after 40 minutes to prevent too much browning ) • None Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before unmolding .
Set the bread on a cooling rack to better apply the glaze .
• None For the glaze , add together the diced strawberries , melted butter , powdered sugar and extract until well combined .
• None Distribute the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bread after it has cooled down .
• None Slice and serve it with some whole strawberries if you like .
Some whole strawberries for serving ( optional ) • None Set the oven at 350 degrees and grease a bread pan of 9×5 inches .
• None Combine the egg substitute , avocado oil , coconut or almond milk , coconut sugar or raw honey , and the almond or vanilla extract .
• None Fold carefully ( without over mixing ) the dry ingredients into the liquid mix .
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • None Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the tip of a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean .
• None Unmold after you had let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes .
Then let it rest on a wire rack for the glaze application .
• None Using a blender mix the coconut sugar and tapioca or rice flour for 1 to 2 minutes .
Do this until the sugar looks powdered .
• None Combine the sugar-flour mix with the diced strawberries , melted coconut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extract until smooth .
• None Pour the strawberry glazed on top of the bread , once this is cooled completely .
• None Slice and serve with whole strawberries .
( 1 ) Now , you can indulge your morning with your favorite cup of joe and a slice of sweet homemade strawberry bread .
Enjoy !

I don’t often align myself with products but this is one that I just had to share!
Some of you may already know years ago, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
I can still recall what it felt like to have my life change overnight…
I went from an Executive Director of a non-profit organization, running marathons, rock climbing, hiking canyons and kayaking to being completely bedridden and staring at a wall for 15 hours a day.
Of course, I went to see many doctors but unfortunately I didn’t find the help I needed. So, I had to set off on my own journey to learn my true path to healing.
I’d pretty much turned-over every rock trying to find relief for my pain, sleep issues and myriad of other symptoms…
Fast-forward 18 years.
I was determined to climb one of the true wonders of the natural world, Machu Picchu, the mystical home of the Incas in Peru.
It was there, after a grueling day when my feet, knees, legs, and lower back hurt so bad, that I thought I would have to abandon hopes of our next climb which was Rainbow Mountain! That night I pulled out a little spray bottle of “aceite de magnesio” that a friend had given me before I left on my trip.
What the heck, I thought. I was desperate. And I applied it all over my body before bed.
Because of the grueling day, I woke up expecting to be immobilized, but instead we were off to climb Rainbow Mountain and…I was totally pain-free!
I know it sounds impossible, but it’s 1000% the truth.


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-03--Antiviral Toolkit: Natural Agents that Optimize Immune Response and Fight Viral Invaders

Your body faces constant attacks by germs , toxins and other harmful invaders .
At the same time , everyday stress and worry can keep you and your body on constant high alert .
All of those things demand attention from your immune system .
And adding anything extra or unusual into the mix can throw everything further out of balance .
In trying times , staying healthy offers your best defense .
And the best way to achieve that is through immune system regulation .
You may hear a lot about boosting your immune system to help it fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immune boost can turn into immune overreaction .
When that happens , your body ends up fighting against itself .
The key here is balance .
A well-regulated immune system doesn ’ t overreact or underreact .
It does what ’ s needed to knock out an invasive germ and stops short of attacking you .
That concept of regulation applies in a broader sense , too .
Regulating emotions and stress levels help reduce immune system reactivity and improve immune system responses .
That ’ s especially true during stress-filled challenging times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to regulate the immune system , your whole body needs to be in balance .
That can seem impossible during times of crisis .
Panic , fear , anxiety and stress can throw your immune system into a state of dysregulation , and make you more vulnerable to infections .
Luckily , there are several simple things you can do to calm things down and return your whole body to a more regulated state : • Eat the healthiest diet possible , including anti-inflammatory foods like green vegetables , nuts and seeds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keep your body moving as much as you can , but avoid overexerting yourself ( as that stresses your system ) • Do things ( like listening to music ) that help you feel relaxed • Meditate daily to help your mind and body relax Any of these actions can help regulate your body and your immune system , and help you avoid an immune system overreaction .
When your immune system detects infectious microbes — like viruses or bacteria — it activates an alarm system .
One of the main alarm proteins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , starts sending urgent alerts to other immune system cells .
In that role , Gal-3 sets off many immune reactions , including inflammation .
Normally , this response helps your body recognize and neutralize invaders .
But sometimes , Gal-3 goes into overdrive and causes an excessive inflammatory response .
That overreaction is known as a cytokine storm , which can pack a deadly blow as it causes overwhelming inflammation throughout the body .
Some infectious microbes can trigger Gal-3 and cytokine storms , leading to severe health consequences including : Cytokine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infections , making it nearly impossible to breathe as the lungs become overwhelmed by inflammation .
To avoid these potentially fatal outcomes , you want to keep your immune system balanced and regulated , and that means keeping Gal-3 under control .
Keeping Gal-3 under control can be life-saving .
Modified citrus pectin , or MCP , is the only proven Gal-3 blocker currently available .
MCP prevents Gal-3 from being over-expressed , which helps keep runaway inflammation under control and stops cytokine storms .
Plus , MCP brings additional critical benefits that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • neutralizes and eliminates toxins and other harmful substances that can distract or overload your immune system • helps activate the right immune cells to take on specific threats When building your antiviral toolkit , MCP makes a crucial first addition .
MCP ’ s combined powers of reducing the burden on your immune system , protecting you against infectious microbes and blocking overactive Gal-3 can help keep shield you during any health crisis .
For generations , practitioners of traditional Asian medicine have relied on medicinal mushrooms for their wide-ranging health benefits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immune system .
Medicinal mushrooms have adaptogen qualities , meaning they adapt to the immediate circumstance to survive .
And those qualities can also help you by regulating your immune system and its inflammatory response .
Medicinal mushrooms teach your immune system to work better and smarter — not harder .
In addition , many medicinal mushrooms offer antiviral , antimicrobial , anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection .
Beneficial medicinal mushrooms include : Some of these medicinal mushrooms ( like Coriolus ) have an immediate effect .
Others , like reishi and cordyceps , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as tremella , cordyceps and reishi protect the lungs , while mushrooms like maitake and shiitake protect the digestion .
Medicinal mushrooms can be taken individually , but they work even better when taken together .
Include them as staples in your antiviral toolkit for overall immune regulation and support .
Germs infect you by sneaking into your cells .
Some more virulent viruses enter through ACE2 receptors , which act sort of like keyholes that can open doorways into cells .
Certain infectious microbes have “ keys ” that fit well into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ keys ” to latch tightly on to ACE2 receptors and break into healthy cells .
Fortunately , specific herbs may be able to lock down ACE2 receptors and prevent invaders from barging in .
Such antiviral herbs include : And like other herbs , each of these contains hundreds of plant compounds , so they can have multiple positive effects on your health .
For example , Japanese knotweed possesses strong antiviral properties , and horse chestnut is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties .
For thousands of years , plants have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fight diseases , and treat symptoms .
Many of the most powerfully healing herbs are widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine .
Whether you ’ re looking for immune system regulation , antiviral properties , anti-inflammatory powers or symptom relief , there ’ s an herbal remedy that can help .
• Honokiol ( especially in combination with MCP ) ( study ) All of these herbs have a place in a complete antiviral toolkit .
Remember , the main pillars of keeping yourself healthy are regulation — for your immune system and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overreactions that can lead to dangerous cytokine storms .
Integrating the various elements introduced in this article can yield both short and long-term results .
And on the way , they can be of significant benefit to yourself and those around you .

Your body faces constant attacks by germs, toxins and other harmful invaders. At the same time, everyday stress and worry can keep you and your body on constant high alert.
All of those things demand attention from your immune system. And adding anything extra or unusual into the mix can throw everything further out of balance.
In trying times, staying healthy offers your best defense. And the best way to achieve that is through immune system regulation.
Regulation Works Better Than Stimulation
You may hear a lot about boosting your immune system to help it fight. But with some infections, an immune boost can turn into immune overreaction. When that happens, your body ends up fighting against itself.
The key here is balance. A well-regulated immune system doesn’t overreact or underreact. It does what’s needed to knock out an invasive germ and stops short of attacking you.
That concept of regulation applies in a broader sense, too. Regulating emotions and stress levels help reduce immune system reactivity and improve immune system responses. That’s especially true during stress-filled challenging times.
Your Whole Body Needs Regulation
In order to regulate the immune system, your whole body needs to be in balance. That can seem impossible during times of crisis.
Panic, fear, anxiety and stress can throw your immune system into a state of dysregulation, and make you more vulnerable to infections.
Luckily, there are several simple things you can do to calm things down and return your whole body to a more regulated state:
Eat the healthiest diet possible, including anti-inflammatory foods like green vegetables, nuts and seeds, olive oil, and berries
Keep your body moving as much as you can, but avoid overexerting yourself (as that stresses your system)
Spend some time outdoors
Get plenty of sleep
Do things (like listening to music) that help you feel relaxed
Meditate daily to help your mind and body relax
Any of these actions can help regulate your body and your immune system, and help you avoid an immune system overreaction.
Immune System Overreaction and Cytokine Storms
When your immune system detects infectious microbes — like viruses or bacteria — it activates an alarm system. One of the main alarm proteins, called galectin-3 (or Gal-3), starts sending urgent alerts to other immune system cells. In that role, Gal-3 sets off many immune reactions, including inflammation.
Normally, this response helps your body recognize and neutralize invaders. But sometimes, Gal-3 goes into overdrive and causes an excessive inflammatory response.
That overreaction is known as a cytokine storm, which can pack a deadly blow as it causes overwhelming inflammation throughout the body.
Some infectious microbes can trigger Gal-3 and cytokine storms, leading to severe health consequences including:
respiratory failure
kidney damage
liver damage
septic shock
Cytokine storms can be especially dangerous in respiratory infections, making it nearly impossible to breathe as the lungs become overwhelmed by inflammation.
To avoid these potentially fatal outcomes, you want to keep your immune system balanced and regulated, and that means keeping Gal-3 under control.
Calming the “Alarm” Protein Galectin-3
Keeping Gal-3 under control can be life-saving.
Modified citrus pectin, or MCP, is the only proven Gal-3 blocker currently available. MCP prevents Gal-3 from being over-expressed, which helps keep runaway inflammation under control and stops cytokine storms.
Plus, MCP brings additional critical benefits that can help you weather health crises:
neutralizes and eliminates toxins and other harmful substances that can distract or overload your immune system
helps activate the right immune cells to take on specific threats
actively protects key organs including heart, liver and kidneys
tackles cancer growth and metastasis
helps regulate the immune system
offers antimicrobial protection
When building your antiviral toolkit, MCP makes a crucial first addition. MCP’s combined powers of reducing the burden on your immune system, protecting you against infectious microbes and blocking overactive Gal-3 can help keep shield you during any health crisis.
Regulating Your Immune System
For generations, practitioners of traditional Asian medicine have relied on medicinal mushrooms for their wide-ranging health benefits — particularly their ability to adjust the immune system.
Medicinal mushrooms have adaptogen qualities, meaning they adapt to the immediate circumstance to survive. And those qualities can also help you by regulating your immune system and its inflammatory response.
Medicinal mushrooms teach your immune system to work better and smarter — not harder.
In addition, many medicinal mushrooms offer antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection. Beneficial medicinal mushrooms include:
Ganoderma (reishi)
Cordyceps
Coriolus
Umbellatus
Maitake
Shiitake
Tremella
Some of these medicinal mushrooms (like Coriolus) have an immediate effect. Others, like reishi and cordyceps, offer more long-term support. Mushrooms such as tremella, cordyceps and reishi protect the lungs, while mushrooms like maitake and shiitake protect the digestion.
Medicinal mushrooms can be taken individually, but they work even better when taken together. Include them as staples in your antiviral toolkit for overall immune regulation and support.
Protecting Cells Against Invaders
Germs infect you by sneaking into your cells. Some more virulent viruses enter through ACE2 receptors, which act sort of like keyholes that can open doorways into cells.
Certain infectious microbes have “keys” that fit well into those ACE2 keyholes. They use their “keys” to latch tightly on to ACE2 receptors and break into healthy cells.
Fortunately, specific herbs may be able to lock down ACE2 receptors and prevent invaders from barging in. Such antiviral herbs include:
Chinese skullcap root
licorice
horse chestnut
Japanese knotweed root
And like other herbs, each of these contains hundreds of plant compounds, so they can have multiple positive effects on your health. For example, Japanese knotweed possesses strong antiviral properties, and horse chestnut is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Time-Tested Herbs Keep You Healthy
For thousands of years, plants have been used to keep people healthy, fight diseases, and treat symptoms. Many of the most powerfully healing herbs are widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Whether you’re looking for immune system regulation, antiviral properties, anti-inflammatory powers or symptom relief, there’s an herbal remedy that can help.
Herbs with immune-regulating properties:
Astragalus (study)
Eleutherococcus (study)
Ashwagandha (study)
Artemisia (study)
Herbs with antiviral properties:
Astragalus (study)
Honokiol (study)
Star anise (study)
Licorice (study)
Herbs with anti-inflammatory properties:
All of these herbs have a place in a complete antiviral toolkit. Remember, the main pillars of keeping yourself healthy are regulation — for your immune system and your stress levels — and blocking immune overreactions that can lead to dangerous cytokine storms.
Integrating the various elements introduced in this article can yield both short and long-term results. And on the way, they can be of significant benefit to yourself and those around you.