healthyholisticliving--2020-08-31--First Proposed Evidence-Based Guideline For Alzheimer’s Prevention

After reviewing and analyzing available studies on Alzheimer ’ s disease , researchers have published the first evidence-based guidelines to prevent the disease .
The document includes 21 recommendations based on risk factors found in the study review .
( 1 , 2 ) Lead author Jin-Tai Yu , MD , PhD told Medscape Medical News , “ The first evidence-based guideline is proposed , offering clinicians and stakeholders current guidance for the prevention of Alzheimer ’ s disease.
” Yu is a professor of neurology at Fudan University in Shanghai , China .
( 2 ) In their study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a decrease in the prevalence of dementia .
This downtrend has been associated with earlier investments in the population , such as improved education and vascular health .
These improvements underscore the need for primary prevention , researchers said .
( 1 ) The researchers also note that there have been worldwide efforts over the past few decades to learn more about how to prevent Alzheimer ’ s disease .
Alzheimer ’ s is responsible for around two-thirds of dementia cases .
And it affects 20 % of people over 80 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it has been difficult to come to a verdict from the available research .
The studies are marked by inconsistent conclusions and a wide variety of study designs , casting doubts on some of their credibility .
( 1 ) There have not been evidence-based guidelines for preventing Alzheimer ’ s so far .
So the research team decided to wade through the existing evidence to create some .
( 1 , 2 ) “ More and more evidence has shown that Alzheimer ’ s disease , like other common chronic diseases , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing levels of education and improved control of relative modifiable risk factors , ” Yu told Medscape Medical News .
( 2 ) The research team pulled Alzheimer ’ s-related studies from PubMed , EMBASE , and CENTRAL databases .
They focused on two types of studies : observational prospective studies ( OPSs ) and randomized control trials ( RCTs ) .
After applying exclusion criteria , they worked with 243 OPSs and 153 RCTs .
( 1 ) They evaluated the quality of the studies using a risk of bias tool .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the quality of scientific evidence as Level A , Level B , or Level C. They then separated the recommendations into three classes after weighing the benefits of specific interventions against their risks : Class I ( strong recommendation ) , Class II ( weak recommendation ) and Class III ( not recommended ) .
( 1 ) Through this research method , the research team found 104 modifiable risk factors and 11 interventions for dementia .
When they were classified based on evidence quality and intervention strength , they found 21 evidence-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s disease .
( 1 , 2 ) There were 10 risk factors with Level A evidence and Class I strength of recommendation .
They were : ( 1 , 2 ) There were also nine Class I factors with Level B evidence .
They were : ( 1 , 2 ) The two factors that researchers categorized as Class III ( not recommended ) , estrogen replacement therapy and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors , challenge conventional wisdom about Alzheimer ’ s prevention .
The medical community previously connected the higher incidence of Alzheimer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But Yu said that “ our study finds that estrogen replacement therapy does not reduce the risk of Alzheimer ’ s disease , ” and a long course of estrogen replacement therapy could actually increase the risk .
( 1 , 2 ) Some have also previously thought that acetylcholinesterase inhibitors ( ACIs ) could help prevent Alzheimer ’ s disease .
But this study showed that is not the case .
( 1 , 2 ) Yu said that the best way to steer clear of many Alzheimer ’ s risk factors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Specifically , that means education , regular physical exercise , maintaining a healthy BMI , getting enough vitamin C , not smoking , and having high-quality sleep in early life .
( 2 ) The study ’ s authors are open about its limitations .
More research is needed to strengthen this study ’ s findings , but the guidelines are a good start in helping to prevent dementia .
( 1 , 2 ) Yi Tang , MD , PhD , who was not an author of the study , commented on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said , “ With these evidence-based suggestions , clinicians could provide a comprehensive framework of preventive strategies for Alzheimer ’ s disease in individuals with family history of dementia or at increased risk of cognitive decline .
It ’ s almost impossible to prevent dementia if we only focus on one or several risk factors.
” ( 1 , 2 )

Alzheimer’s Prevention Research
After reviewing and analyzing available studies on Alzheimer’s disease, researchers have published the first evidence-based guidelines to prevent the disease. The document includes 21 recommendations based on risk factors found in the study review. (1, 2)
Lead author Jin-Tai Yu, MD, PhD told Medscape Medical News, “The first evidence-based guideline is proposed, offering clinicians and stakeholders current guidance for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.” Yu is a professor of neurology at Fudan University in Shanghai, China. (2)
In their study, the researchers note that there has been a decrease in the prevalence of dementia. This downtrend has been associated with earlier investments in the population, such as improved education and vascular health. These improvements underscore the need for primary prevention, researchers said. (1)
The researchers also note that there have been worldwide efforts over the past few decades to learn more about how to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is responsible for around two-thirds of dementia cases. And it affects 20% of people over 80 years old. (1)
However, it has been difficult to come to a verdict from the available research. The studies are marked by inconsistent conclusions and a wide variety of study designs, casting doubts on some of their credibility. (1)
There have not been evidence-based guidelines for preventing Alzheimer’s so far. So the research team decided to wade through the existing evidence to create some. (1, 2)
“More and more evidence has shown that Alzheimer’s disease, like other common chronic diseases, could be preventable as a result of increasing levels of education and improved control of relative modifiable risk factors,” Yu told Medscape Medical News. (2)
Research Process
The research team pulled Alzheimer’s-related studies from PubMed, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases. They focused on two types of studies: observational prospective studies (OPSs) and randomized control trials (RCTs). After applying exclusion criteria, they worked with 243 OPSs and 153 RCTs. (1)
They evaluated the quality of the studies using a risk of bias tool. Researchers summarized levels of evidence to represent the quality of scientific evidence as Level A, Level B, or Level C. They then separated the recommendations into three classes after weighing the benefits of specific interventions against their risks: Class I (strong recommendation), Class II (weak recommendation) and Class III (not recommended). (1)
Alzheimer’s Prevention Guidelines
Through this research method, the research team found 104 modifiable risk factors and 11 interventions for dementia. When they were classified based on evidence quality and intervention strength, they found 21 evidence-based suggestions for the primary prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. (1, 2)
There were 10 risk factors with Level A evidence and Class I strength of recommendation. They were: (1, 2)
cognitive activity
hyperhomocysteinemia
increased BMI in late life
depression
stress
diabetes
head trauma
hypertension in midlife
orthostatic hypotension
education
There were also nine Class I factors with Level B evidence. They were: (1, 2)
obesity in midlife
weight loss in late life
physical exercise
smoking
sleep
cardiovascular disease
frailty
atrial fibrillation
vitamin C
The two factors that researchers categorized as Class III (not recommended), estrogen replacement therapy and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, challenge conventional wisdom about Alzheimer’s prevention. The medical community previously connected the higher incidence of Alzheimer’s in women with menopause. But Yu said that “our study finds that estrogen replacement therapy does not reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease,” and a long course of estrogen replacement therapy could actually increase the risk. (1, 2)
Some have also previously thought that acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (ACIs) could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. But this study showed that is not the case. (1, 2)
Yu said that the best way to steer clear of many Alzheimer’s risk factors is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Specifically, that means education, regular physical exercise, maintaining a healthy BMI, getting enough vitamin C, not smoking, and having high-quality sleep in early life. (2)
Continued Research Necessary
The study’s authors are open about its limitations. More research is needed to strengthen this study’s findings, but the guidelines are a good start in helping to prevent dementia. (1, 2)
Yi Tang, MD, PhD, who was not an author of the study, commented on its findings to Medscape Medical News. He said, “With these evidence-based suggestions, clinicians could provide a comprehensive framework of preventive strategies for Alzheimer’s disease in individuals with family history of dementia or at increased risk of cognitive decline. It’s almost impossible to prevent dementia if we only focus on one or several risk factors.” (1, 2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-31--Massive Study of 24,000 Dreams Suggests They Really Are Continuations of Reality

It is possible that our dreams can be cataloged , coded , and made into predictable algorithms ?
That we could then use the information to recognize and analyze dream content in different ways ?
One study of over 24,000 dreams suggests that ’ s exactly what can happen .
( 1 ) Seems that Dr. Sigmond Freud , famed Austrian neurologist and founder of psychoanalysis , may have been correct all along .
He believed that our dreams are merely a continuation of our reality… that the meaning of our dreams can be realized if we take into account @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Are Dreams , Really ?
There is something magical and mysterious about dreaming .
We fall asleep and enter a whole new world where anything becomes possible .
Whales can dance in the sky among rainbows , your childhood puppy may appear in your arms right out of thin air , or maybe you finally get to marry your pop star crush .
Anyone who has ever had a dream can understand why ancient people and civilizations tended to give their dreams a lot of spiritual meaning .
Looking to symbolism as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the screen of their minds every night… that seems like a natural direction to take .
How else to explain them ?
But as people became more sophisticated in our thinking and interpretation of the world around us , Freud and other scientists came up with another idea .
“ The continuity hypothesis of dreams ” is a theory that our dreams are actually a continuation of our reality .
It turns out , through research , that our lives do impact our dreams .
( 2 ) A day filled with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nightmares .
Likewise , our brains can sometimes work out solutions to tough problems while in a dream state .
Dr. Freud was among the first to suggest that our dreams can be interpreted through our waking lives , but other scientists and researchers have been excited by this prospect throughout the decades , building on his theories and even creating what is known as the Hall and Van de Castle system .
The Hall and Van de Castle system catalogs the content of our dreams .
It looks at what characters appear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them in the dream , etc .
( 3 ) It is exactly as labor-intensive as it sounds .
But this new study of over 24,000 dreams has built from it what is now known as the DreamBank .
It ’ s a database of dream reports , compiled by a machine learning tool that ’ s programmed to analyze thousands of terms and keywords .
Validated against hand-written dream accounts of the Hall and Van de Castle process , the database has a good bit of refinement left to go .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the more labor-intensive system about three-quarters of the time , but the results are still quite encouraging .
With such a huge database of detailed dreams , other exciting information is beginning to come to the fore , like major support for the continuity hypothesis of dreams .
According to their research , there were a number of “ statistical markers ” that are likely to reflect what the dreamers have been experiencing in their waking life .
Whatever really happens when we sleep , one thing is for certain : we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one day .
We humans have this almost mysterious , otherworldly side to us .
But the curiosity and interest of our greatest scientific minds will unravel and codify it… eventually !

It is possible that our dreams can be cataloged, coded, and made into predictable algorithms? That we could then use the information to recognize and analyze dream content in different ways? One study of over 24,000 dreams suggests that’s exactly what can happen. (1) Seems that Dr. Sigmond Freud, famed Austrian neurologist and founder of psychoanalysis, may have been correct all along. He believed that our dreams are merely a continuation of our reality… that the meaning of our dreams can be realized if we take into account the context of our lives.
What Are Dreams, Really?
There is something magical and mysterious about dreaming. We fall asleep and enter a whole new world where anything becomes possible. Whales can dance in the sky among rainbows, your childhood puppy may appear in your arms right out of thin air, or maybe you finally get to marry your pop star crush. Anyone who has ever had a dream can understand why ancient people and civilizations tended to give their dreams a lot of spiritual meaning. Looking to symbolism as a way of explaining the strange imagery projected on the screen of their minds every night… that seems like a natural direction to take. How else to explain them? But as people became more sophisticated in our thinking and interpretation of the world around us, Freud and other scientists came up with another idea.
The Continuity Hypothesis Of Dreams
“The continuity hypothesis of dreams” is a theory that our dreams are actually a continuation of our reality. It turns out, through research, that our lives do impact our dreams. (2) A day filled with anxiety will become a night fraught with nightmares. Likewise, our brains can sometimes work out solutions to tough problems while in a dream state. Dr. Freud was among the first to suggest that our dreams can be interpreted through our waking lives, but other scientists and researchers have been excited by this prospect throughout the decades, building on his theories and even creating what is known as the Hall and Van de Castle system.
Codifying And Analyzing Our Dreams
The Hall and Van de Castle system catalogs the content of our dreams. It looks at what characters appear, the quality of our interactions with them in the dream, etc. (3) It is exactly as labor-intensive as it sounds. But this new study of over 24,000 dreams has built from it what is now known as the DreamBank. It’s a database of dream reports, compiled by a machine learning tool that’s programmed to analyze thousands of terms and keywords. Validated against hand-written dream accounts of the Hall and Van de Castle process, the database has a good bit of refinement left to go. It is effective at interpreting the dream against the more labor-intensive system about three-quarters of the time, but the results are still quite encouraging.
With such a huge database of detailed dreams, other exciting information is beginning to come to the fore, like major support for the continuity hypothesis of dreams. According to their research, there were a number of “statistical markers” that are likely to reflect what the dreamers have been experiencing in their waking life.
Whatever really happens when we sleep, one thing is for certain: we’ll get to the bottom of it one day. We humans have this almost mysterious, otherworldly side to us. But the curiosity and interest of our greatest scientific minds will unravel and codify it… eventually!


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-31--Science Explains What Happens To Your Body When You Do Planks Every Day

Ugh !
Planks .
They ’ ve got to be one of the hardest exercises to do , yet they work your core big time .
But , apparently , they do more than benefit your core .
Here ’ s what science says happens to your body , when you master your plank exercises every day .
( 1 ) Planking is simply using your lower arms to hold your body up for a sustained period .
When you do this , you safely strain muscles throughout your body , including your core , allowing muscles to build and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ push-ups , you use your forearms to lift your body and hold the position for as long as you can .
( 1 ) Core strength is important because your core muscles are the most frequently used muscles when you move .
So , logically , if you have a strong core , you strengthen your ability to move .
This makes it easier to achieve physical goals , including working those stubborn abdominal muscles .
But it just makes everything you do easier .
If you can plank , your abs get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ column .
You reduce the risk for injuries even in everyday movements , such as lifting .
In short , plank exercises are ideal for your daily exercise routine .
( 1 , 2 ) Best of all you can actually reduce your overall workout time as one exercise addresses your entire body .
( 1 ) So what happens if you do plank exercises every day ?
Let ’ s review : As mentioned , when you improve core strength you improve core performance including : ( 1,2 ) • Ability to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strengthens your entire back .
Regardless of your age , avoiding back injury allows you to remain active while also helping to reduce chronic back pain .
( 1 ) Especially for those living a sedentary lifestyle , your metabolism gets lazy .
Plank exercises allow you to continue burning calories even when you are just sitting , or even sleeping .
Do them in the morning and you increase your metabolic rate all day .
Do them in the afternoon and your metabolism keeps going during sleep .
( 1 ) As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me sit up and pay attention .
Good posture helps keep bones and joints in alignment which helps with overall health and reduced back pain .
It also makes you appear more confident when you sit up nice and tall in your seat .
( 1 ) Improved balance helps you perform more effectively in sports , but also just doing everyday tasks like putting your pants on standing up .
( 1 ) Being flexible just makes everything easier .
Plank exercises even reach your toes and feet helping support your body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improve mood as they release body stress and tension which in turn helps calm the brain .
( 1 ) As with any exercise , you should speak to your doctor before beginning plank exercises if you suffer from any health issues , including being overweight .

Ugh! Planks. They’ve got to be one of the hardest exercises to do, yet they work your core big time. But, apparently, they do more than benefit your core. Here’s what science says happens to your body, when you master your plank exercises every day. (1)
What Is Plank Exercise?
Planking is simply using your lower arms to hold your body up for a sustained period. When you do this, you safely strain muscles throughout your body, including your core, allowing muscles to build and strengthen. In the same position for push-ups, you use your forearms to lift your body and hold the position for as long as you can. (1)
Plank Exercises And Your Core
Core strength is important because your core muscles are the most frequently used muscles when you move. So, logically, if you have a strong core, you strengthen your ability to move. This makes it easier to achieve physical goals, including working those stubborn abdominal muscles. But it just makes everything you do easier. If you can plank, your abs get stronger to support your back and spinal column. You reduce the risk for injuries even in everyday movements, such as lifting. In short, plank exercises are ideal for your daily exercise routine. (1, 2)
Multiple Benefits From Plank Exercise
Some benefits of planking include (1):
Strengthening your core
Supporting your back and spine
Toning your arm muscles
Developing your butt muscles
Developing thigh muscles
Best of all you can actually reduce your overall workout time as one exercise addresses your entire body. (1)
How Plank Exercises Affect Your Body
So what happens if you do plank exercises every day? Let’s review:
Core Strength
As mentioned, when you improve core strength you improve core performance including: (1,2)
Lifting heavier weights
Better sports performance, like jumping
Six pack abs
Ability to move and twist at the waist
Nicely shaped derriere
Reduced Risk Of Back Injury
Planking strengthens your entire back. Regardless of your age, avoiding back injury allows you to remain active while also helping to reduce chronic back pain. (1)
Metabolism Boost
Especially for those living a sedentary lifestyle, your metabolism gets lazy. Plank exercises allow you to continue burning calories even when you are just sitting, or even sleeping. Do them in the morning and you increase your metabolic rate all day. Do them in the afternoon and your metabolism keeps going during sleep. (1)
Improved Posture
As a notorious slouch, this one made me sit up and pay attention. Good posture helps keep bones and joints in alignment which helps with overall health and reduced back pain. It also makes you appear more confident when you sit up nice and tall in your seat. (1)
Improved Balance
Improved balance helps you perform more effectively in sports, but also just doing everyday tasks like putting your pants on standing up. (1)
Flexibility
Being flexible just makes everything easier. Plank exercises even reach your toes and feet helping support your body weight. (1)
Mental Health
Plank exercises improve mood as they release body stress and tension which in turn helps calm the brain. (1)
As with any exercise, you should speak to your doctor before beginning plank exercises if you suffer from any health issues, including being overweight.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-31--Massage These Pressure Points To Relax and Soothe a Fussy Baby, Reflexology Experts Say

One of the most challenging parts of having a baby is not always knowing why they are upset .
If you have a fussy baby and you ’ ve tried everything else , reflexology might be the key to calming them .
Reflexology is the application of pressure to the feet and hands .
The theory behind reflexology is that certain pressure points on the feet and hands correspond to organs elsewhere in the body .
Reflexology practitioners use mapped points on the hands and feet to invigorate other parts of the body by massaging or applying pressure to these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reflexology has its origins in ancient Egypt and China .
A mural in an Egyptian pyramid offers evidence that reflexology was practiced there as early as 2330 BC .
Dr. William Fitzgerald brought reflexology to the United States as “ zone therapy ” in 1915 .
During the 1930s , Eunice Ingram , a physiotherapist , further developed Fitzgerald ’ s practices into what is now modern reflexology .
( 1 , 2 ) While reflexology should never be used as the only treatment for a condition , it may help calm your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tried all of the usual methods — feeding , rocking , diaper changing , napping — reflexology could be the thing that soothes your child .
( 1 ) According to the Mayo Clinic , reflexology is generally low-risk .
It can be helpful for stress relief and relaxation .
And anything that calms your baby and ceases relentless crying will also be good for you , lowering your own stress level .
( 1 , 3 ) Your baby ’ s foot is divided into six different zones , which reflexology says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 4 ) : • None Their toes correspond with their head , teeth , and sinuses • None Just below the toes corresponds to the chest area • None The mid-section of the foot corresponds to the upper and lower abdomen • None The heel corresponds to the pelvic area Using Reflexology to Soothe Your Fussy Baby You may want to take a generalized approach to reflexology with your baby before using it for more targeted soothing .
Midwife Sophia England told Good Housekeeping that you can practice reflexology on your baby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touching their feet .
( 4 ) To get started , she recommends just holding your baby ’ s feet .
If they seem comfortable with this , you can circle your thumb over the solar plexus area right above the middle of the foot .
Then , brush your thumb from under the big toe all the way down to the heel .
End by circling your thumb clockwise in the arch of their foot .
Then , repeat on the other foot .
( 4 ) If at any time during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , kicks at you , or continues crying , England says that you should stop .
But if your baby seems happy and comforted by reflexology , it is fine to continue .
( 4 ) • None To be safe , check with your baby ’ s pediatrician before trying reflexology on them .
And if they seem to be in pain or have another condition , take them to the doctor .
However , if you just have a fussy baby on your hands , reflexology might be just the thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ball of the foot correlates to the solar plexus .
• None The center of the foot , right underneath the ball of the foot , is associated with the upper abdomen .

One of the most challenging parts of having a baby is not always knowing why they are upset. If you have a fussy baby and you’ve tried everything else, reflexology might be the key to calming them.
Reflexology 101
Reflexology is the application of pressure to the feet and hands. The theory behind reflexology is that certain pressure points on the feet and hands correspond to organs elsewhere in the body. Reflexology practitioners use mapped points on the hands and feet to invigorate other parts of the body by massaging or applying pressure to these points. (1, 2)
Reflexology has its origins in ancient Egypt and China. A mural in an Egyptian pyramid offers evidence that reflexology was practiced there as early as 2330 BC. Dr. William Fitzgerald brought reflexology to the United States as “zone therapy” in 1915. During the 1930s, Eunice Ingram, a physiotherapist, further developed Fitzgerald’s practices into what is now modern reflexology. (1, 2)
Reflexology for Your Fussy Baby
While reflexology should never be used as the only treatment for a condition, it may help calm your fussy baby. If you’ve tried all of the usual methods — feeding, rocking, diaper changing, napping — reflexology could be the thing that soothes your child. (1)
According to the Mayo Clinic, reflexology is generally low-risk. It can be helpful for stress relief and relaxation. And anything that calms your baby and ceases relentless crying will also be good for you, lowering your own stress level. (1, 3)
The Zones of a Baby’s Foot
Your baby’s foot is divided into six different zones, which reflexology says correspond with other parts of the body (4):
Their toes correspond with their head, teeth, and sinuses
Just below the toes corresponds to the chest area
The mid-section of the foot corresponds to the upper and lower abdomen
The heel corresponds to the pelvic area
Using Reflexology to Soothe Your Fussy Baby
You may want to take a generalized approach to reflexology with your baby before using it for more targeted soothing. Midwife Sophia England told Good Housekeeping that you can practice reflexology on your baby for up to 10 minutes by lightly touching their feet. (4)
To get started, she recommends just holding your baby’s feet. If they seem comfortable with this, you can circle your thumb over the solar plexus area right above the middle of the foot. Then, brush your thumb from under the big toe all the way down to the heel. End by circling your thumb clockwise in the arch of their foot. Then, repeat on the other foot. (4)
If at any time during reflexology, your baby tries moving away, kicks at you, or continues crying, England says that you should stop. But if your baby seems happy and comforted by reflexology, it is fine to continue. (4)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-01--Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

A Breakfast You Make the Night Before I love having special breakfasts in the morning .
It just starts the day off on a different note .
But cooking pancakes , eggs , and bacon requires time and energy that I usually don ’ t have in the morning , so I usually end up eating cereal .
This recipe for blueberry cream cheese French toast casserole solves that problem because you make everything ahead of time .
All you have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning !
This “ casserole ” gives you all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the work .
Usually , when you make French toast , you have to go through the laborious process of individually dipping each slice in an egg and milk mixture .
Then , you have to fry each piece of French toast while simultaneously making sides .
With the casserole , you simply combine everything in a pan , and it all cooks together .
It ’ s the perfect way to start your day !
• None 12 slices of any kind of bread or a loaf of French bread • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fresh or frozen • None 1 cup of blueberries , either fresh or frozen • None The blueberry sauce can be made up to a week ahead of time and refrigerated .
In a medium saucepan over medium heat , stir together the cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch .
Add a cup of water .
Stir the mixture until it ’ s smooth .
Heat the sauce to boiling .
Stir it for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens .
Lower the heat so the sauce comes to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes .
Stir the sauce occasionally until the blueberries break down into the sauce .
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter .
Allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge .
Heat the sauce before serving .
• None Grease a 9 x 13-inch dish .
Cut or tear the bread into small cubes .
Spread them out in the bottom of the dish .
• None Cut the packages of cream cheese into 1-inch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on top of the bread cubes .
Sprinkle the cup of blueberries on top of the bread and cream cheese .
• None In a large mixing bowl , stir together the 12 eggs , cup of milk , and ⅓ cup of maple syrup until they ’ re fully combined .
Gradually pour this mixture over the ingredients in the pan .
The bread should soak up the liquids but not get soggy .
You may have extra liquid mixture left over .
Cover the pan and refrigerate it overnight .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit .
Bake the French toast casserole covered for 30 minutes .
• None Uncover the casserole and bake it for another 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown .
Make sure the center is set by inserting a butter knife .
If it comes out clean , the casserole is done .
• None Warm up the blueberry sauce in the microwave or on the stove .
Drizzle it over the top of the French toast casserole .
• None Cut the French toast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cover the leftovers to refrigerate .

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--2020-09-01--5 Powerful Herbs to Help Fight Infection and Restore the Respiratory Tract

If ever there was a time to brush up on your knowledge of herbal remedies that are helpful for respiratory tract health , that time is now .
No longer is the COVID-19 pandemic something that seems as though it will be over anytime soon… it ’ s more like something we are all just living with now .
Masks have become the norm for a lot of us , and with that , a certain learning curve when it comes to mask hygiene too ; keeping our lungs free of the dreaded coronavirus , without introducing other mysterious pathogens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that a healthy diet is great for helping to keep your immune system strong , but there is a lot that we can do to target our respiratory system .
Since COVID-19 seems to really do a number on a patient ’ s lungs , it ’ s a great idea to shore up the health and strength of our respiratory system before trouble starts .
Here are 5 powerful herbs that you should know about , to help promote the health of your lungs .
Dating all the way back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been used for their medicinal properties .
After Australia was colonized , it began exporting the precious oil that is now commonly used in cough lozenges and syrups .
Eucalyptus ’ s ability to also heal stomach issues , flesh wounds , fevers , and respiratory issues has since made it a staple for herbalists the world over .
Its benefits have brought relief in the form of less coughing and congestion , soothed sinuses , and even stronger immune systems , thanks to its antioxidant properties .
( 1 ) Is there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oregano is probably best known as an ingredient in marinara sauce , but it has so many health benefits that you should definitely keep some oregano oil handy in your medicine cabinet .
Carvacrol and rosmarinic acid are the two components of oregano that give this yummy herb its powerfully healthy punch .
These are natural histamine reducers and decongestants , so they benefit the respiratory tract both by helping to remove irritation and the triggers that cause it too .
( 1 ) Menthol is well known to relax the muscles of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breathe more freely .
Peppermint is full of that , as well as an antihistamine , making it a perfect decongestant .
Say bye-bye to chest congestion and phlegm , and take advantage of the antioxidants that peppermint has to offer too .
Fight off what ’ s ailing you , and keep it away too , all with that bright fresh scent that peppermint is known for .
( 1 ) This is an herb that is used in the ancient practice of Ayurveda and offers a number of different healing properties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties .
It also helps with cell rejuvenation , giving it a boost in the fight against chronic lung infection .
( 2 ) Curcumin is another Ayurvedic herb .
Known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties , it is commonly used in the treatment of both bacterial and viral infections… common colds , flu , and persistent coughs don ’ t stand a chance against this powerful herb .
Known for relieving chest congestion , curcumin is an herb worth having in your respiratory health toolkit .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we can partner with our bodies in better health .
By feeding it what it needs to be as strong as possible , and supplementing that wonderful diet with healing remedies straight from Mother Nature , you ’ re setting yourself up for the best possible chances of a strong and healthy outlook as we move forward through this “ COVID thing ” together .

If ever there was a time to brush up on your knowledge of herbal remedies that are helpful for respiratory tract health, that time is now. No longer is the COVID-19 pandemic something that seems as though it will be over anytime soon… it’s more like something we are all just living with now. Masks have become the norm for a lot of us, and with that, a certain learning curve when it comes to mask hygiene too; keeping our lungs free of the dreaded coronavirus, without introducing other mysterious pathogens from a dirty mask.
We all know that a healthy diet is great for helping to keep your immune system strong, but there is a lot that we can do to target our respiratory system. Since COVID-19 seems to really do a number on a patient’s lungs, it’s a great idea to shore up the health and strength of our respiratory system before trouble starts. Here are 5 powerful herbs that you should know about, to help promote the health of your lungs.
Respiratory Tract Health The Natural Way
Dating all the way back to the native Australians, eucalyptus leaves have been used for their medicinal properties. After Australia was colonized, it began exporting the precious oil that is now commonly used in cough lozenges and syrups. Eucalyptus’s ability to also heal stomach issues, flesh wounds, fevers, and respiratory issues has since made it a staple for herbalists the world over. Its benefits have brought relief in the form of less coughing and congestion, soothed sinuses, and even stronger immune systems, thanks to its antioxidant properties. (1)
Is there anything it can’t do? Oregano is probably best known as an ingredient in marinara sauce, but it has so many health benefits that you should definitely keep some oregano oil handy in your medicine cabinet. Carvacrol and rosmarinic acid are the two components of oregano that give this yummy herb its powerfully healthy punch. These are natural histamine reducers and decongestants, so they benefit the respiratory tract both by helping to remove irritation and the triggers that cause it too. (1)
Menthol is well known to relax the muscles of the respiratory tract, allowing you to breathe more freely. Peppermint is full of that, as well as an antihistamine, making it a perfect decongestant. Say bye-bye to chest congestion and phlegm, and take advantage of the antioxidants that peppermint has to offer too. Fight off what’s ailing you, and keep it away too, all with that bright fresh scent that peppermint is known for. (1)
This is an herb that is used in the ancient practice of Ayurveda and offers a number of different healing properties. It helps with chronic lung infection, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps with cell rejuvenation, giving it a boost in the fight against chronic lung infection. (2)
Curcumin is another Ayurvedic herb. Known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties, it is commonly used in the treatment of both bacterial and viral infections… common colds, flu, and persistent coughs don’t stand a chance against this powerful herb. Known for relieving chest congestion, curcumin is an herb worth having in your respiratory health toolkit. (2)
Support Respiratory Tract Health Every Day
There are so many ways that we can partner with our bodies in better health. By feeding it what it needs to be as strong as possible, and supplementing that wonderful diet with healing remedies straight from Mother Nature, you’re setting yourself up for the best possible chances of a strong and healthy outlook as we move forward through this “COVID thing” together.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-01--Armed And On the Frontlines: Inside Zimbabwe’s All-Female Anti-Poaching Army

About 85,000 elephants live in Zimbabwe , and just as many are threatened by poachers every day .
As a result , the Akashinga head the charge to protect vulnerable species .
The all-female unit patrol former “ trophy hunting ” reserves in their anti-poaching efforts .
Meaning “ brave ones ” , the Akashinga , act as guardians , protecting local wildlife from the plague of heartless poachers and their traps .
Although often criticized , the group reduced poaching incidents by 80 percent in the Lower of Zambezi Valley since 2017 .
These numbers show their effectiveness in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home .
( 1 ) The Women Of The Anti-poaching Army The Akashinga works as an arm of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation .
In their quasi-military attempts to fight often dangerous poachers , these women are no strangers to violence .
Many survived domestic abuse or sexual assault and have found their calling fighting this noble cause .
( 1 ) Nyaradzo Auxillia Hoto , a 28-year old member of the group escaped a violent marriage and successfully rose through the ranks after joining the group .
Petronella Chigumbura , a 30-year-old single @ @ @ @ @ @ @ divorce .
As an assistant instructor sergeant , she earns a steady income and no longer struggles to feed her two children .
( 1 ) “ As a woman , I was focused on using Akashinga as a tool to fight my battle for a better life , ” says Petronella .
“ I can now feed my kids and pay school fees for them .
I acquired a driver ’ s license , which is a big deal for women in Africa !
I am also building a big house for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pride of having my own future.
” ( 1 ) “ Before , it was commonly accepted that a ranger was always a man , but after the introduction of the Akashinga program , I wanted to prove that no job is only meant for men , ” says Nyaradzo .
“ At first , my community couldn ’ t believe a woman could be a ranger .
But the sky is the limit , and women can also be rangers.
” ( 1 ) The efforts of the women present daily dangers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in the past decade , more than 1,000 rangers died at the hands of poachers , as well as animal attacks and work-related accidents .
This doesn ’ t discourage the brave women of the Akashinga .
( 1,2 ) According to Petronella , the danger lies in poachers who use dangerous means to capture the animals .
“ Poachers use guns , snares , and even poison .
Some use cyanide that kills a thousand animals in a few minutes , ” she says .
“ Many poachers here in Zimbabwe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the search for survival.
” ( 1 ) Nyaradzo says trying to guess how poachers will react to their presence is also threatening .
“ During patrols , it ’ s very hard to know what the poachers will be thinking , especially when we ’ re tracking them , ” she says .
“ At the beginning of the lockdown in March , some elephants had succumbed to poisoning by locals .
It ’ s also difficult to assume there ’ s no threat during patrol times because you might encounter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 ) For Petronella , helping wildlife is the driving force behind her job .
“ The way I love my kids is the same way I love wildlife , and this has helped me to create a strong bond with the animals , ” she says .
“ Akashinga ladies just live as a family with the wildlife .
We ’ ve got a motherly , caring heart .
I don ’ t want to see any cruelty inflicted on any animal .
It pierces my heart.
” ( 1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ animals have rights .
“ Animals shouldn ’ t suffer or feel pain for the sake of our needs and desires , ” she says .
“ They have the right to live and enjoy their life.
” ( 1 ) Both women acknowledge the community needs more options to provide for their families .
“ Supporting community members with different projects , since most poachers are driven by poverty and hunger , can help them sustain their families , ” says Petronella .
( 1 ) These brave women show how finding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prompt change both in their lives and the lives of those around them .
( 1 )

About 85,000 elephants live in Zimbabwe, and just as many are threatened by poachers every day. As a result, the Akashinga head the charge to protect vulnerable species. The all-female unit patrol former “trophy hunting” reserves in their anti-poaching efforts. Meaning “brave ones”, the Akashinga, act as guardians, protecting local wildlife from the plague of heartless poachers and their traps. Although often criticized, the group reduced poaching incidents by 80 percent in the Lower of Zambezi Valley since 2017. These numbers show their effectiveness in protecting the elephants who call this area home. (1)
The Women Of The Anti-poaching Army
The Akashinga works as an arm of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. In their quasi-military attempts to fight often dangerous poachers, these women are no strangers to violence. Many survived domestic abuse or sexual assault and have found their calling fighting this noble cause. (1)
Nyaradzo Auxillia Hoto, a 28-year old member of the group escaped a violent marriage and successfully rose through the ranks after joining the group. Petronella Chigumbura, a 30-year-old single mom, joined the group after her divorce. As an assistant instructor sergeant, she earns a steady income and no longer struggles to feed her two children. (1)
Anti-Poaching Army Provides Jobs
“As a woman, I was focused on using Akashinga as a tool to fight my battle for a better life,” says Petronella. “I can now feed my kids and pay school fees for them. I acquired a driver’s license, which is a big deal for women in Africa! I am also building a big house for my children. Now I have the pride of having my own future.” (1)
“Before, it was commonly accepted that a ranger was always a man, but after the introduction of the Akashinga program, I wanted to prove that no job is only meant for men,” says Nyaradzo. “At first, my community couldn’t believe a woman could be a ranger. But the sky is the limit, and women can also be rangers.” (1)
Anti-Poaching Army Faces Danger
The efforts of the women present daily dangers and risks. According to the BBC, in the past decade, more than 1,000 rangers died at the hands of poachers, as well as animal attacks and work-related accidents. This doesn’t discourage the brave women of the Akashinga. (1,2)
According to Petronella, the danger lies in poachers who use dangerous means to capture the animals. “Poachers use guns, snares, and even poison. Some use cyanide that kills a thousand animals in a few minutes,” she says. “Many poachers here in Zimbabwe are driven by poverty, hunger, and the search for survival.” (1)
Nyaradzo says trying to guess how poachers will react to their presence is also threatening. “During patrols, it’s very hard to know what the poachers will be thinking, especially when we’re tracking them,” she says. “At the beginning of the lockdown in March, some elephants had succumbed to poisoning by locals. It’s also difficult to assume there’s no threat during patrol times because you might encounter dangerous wildlife or even armed poachers.” (1)
Anti-Poaching Army: Love Of Animals
For Petronella, helping wildlife is the driving force behind her job. “The way I love my kids is the same way I love wildlife, and this has helped me to create a strong bond with the animals,” she says. “Akashinga ladies just live as a family with the wildlife. We’ve got a motherly, caring heart. I don’t want to see any cruelty inflicted on any animal. It pierces my heart.” (1)
Nyaradzo agrees with a fierce determination that animals have rights. “Animals shouldn’t suffer or feel pain for the sake of our needs and desires,” she says. “They have the right to live and enjoy their life.” (1)
Anti-Poaching Army Looks To Future
Both women acknowledge the community needs more options to provide for their families. “Supporting community members with different projects, since most poachers are driven by poverty and hunger, can help them sustain their families,” says Petronella. (1)
These brave women show how finding the strength to rise from difficulty can prompt change both in their lives and the lives of those around them. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-01--As Climate Change Continues, Water Theft By Big Business Grows

Water rights are a contentious subject .
Our planet is covered in water , yet so much of it is unusable , due to salt content .
Some companies , such as Nestlé , have become synonymous with water practices some describe as unethical–but others say is just fair game in capitalism .
Now , there ’ s water theft .
What is it ?
What ’ s involved ?
Let ’ s see .
The Brookings Institute is a “ nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington , DC , ” whose “ mission is to conduct in-depth research @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems facing society at the local , national and global level.
” They published a report in 2017 on water theft .
They contend there are two schools of thought in relation to water rights .
Firstly , those who believe water is a basic human right .
Then , those who see water as a resource , subject to the capitalist system .
Surprisingly , it is this first group who dislikes the idea of water theft as “ real ” –although their opposition mostly stems from the idea of those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Big business rarely “ needs ” anything .
( 1 ) One man who believes strongly in water theft is Jaime Bonilla , Governor of Baja California , Mexico .
Walmart , Coca-Cola , Samsung , Hyundai , and FedEx have been accused by the governor and auditing agency , FisaMex , of underpaying for their use of Mexican water by $ 49.4 million .
They ’ ve apparently been getting help from inside the water agency .
“ These businesses have been systematically robbing the people , ” says Bonilla .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ illegally draining contaminated water .
Of course , the companies deny wrongdoing .
Mostly , they refuse to speak to reporters .
Many companies told investigators they weren ’ t charged for water use before , so they simply weren ’ t aware they should be paying .
“ These are multi-million dollar , transnational corporations that are listed on the stock exchange , ” Bonilla laments .
“ And , in Tijuana , they steal water ?
” ( 2 ) 2.3 billion gallons of contaminated product–including toxic sludge–poured into the Tijuana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up crossing into U.S. water , especially around San Diego and Southern California .
After that , it ends up in the Pacific Ocean .
The money that these big companies have allegedly defrauded Baja California of would have gone into bulking up the infrastructure–and hopefully lessening future spills .
“ It all makes sense now — why the situation deteriorated so quickly , ” says Imperial Beach , U.S.A. Mayor Serge Dedina .
“ Why they never seemed to be able to fix anything .
Some of the most powerful , wealthy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contributed to our sewage crisis.
” They ’ ve Been Getting Away For instance , Hyundai has not paid for water since 2012 .
“ Nothing is installed .
There ’ s no meter , so they have volumes of water coming in , enjoying the free drainage and there ’ s absolutely no record of them at all at the water agency , ” says Bonilla .
“ It caught our attention when reviewing the budgets , ” said Baja California ’ s secretary of the public integrity unit , Vincenta Espinoza @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually spending more than we were bringing in — more than our income was … and some accounts were being charged for very minimum consumption despite being very large companies … to the point where it was illogical.
” ( 2 )

Water rights are a contentious subject. Our planet is covered in water, yet so much of it is unusable, due to salt content. Some companies, such as Nestlé, have become synonymous with water practices some describe as unethical–but others say is just fair game in capitalism. Now, there’s water theft. What is it? What’s involved? Let’s see.
The Controversy Around Water Theft
The Brookings Institute is a “nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC,” whose “mission is to conduct in-depth research that leads to new ideas for solving problems facing society at the local, national and global level.” They published a report in 2017 on water theft. They contend there are two schools of thought in relation to water rights. Firstly, those who believe water is a basic human right. Then, those who see water as a resource, subject to the capitalist system.
Surprisingly, it is this first group who dislikes the idea of water theft as “real”–although their opposition mostly stems from the idea of those who need water for survival being denied it. Big business rarely “needs” anything. (1)
Baja Water Theft
One man who believes strongly in water theft is Jaime Bonilla, Governor of Baja California, Mexico. Walmart, Coca-Cola, Samsung, Hyundai, and FedEx have been accused by the governor and auditing agency, FisaMex, of underpaying for their use of Mexican water by $49.4 million. They’ve apparently been getting help from inside the water agency. “These businesses have been systematically robbing the people,” says Bonilla. Additionally, the companies have allegedly been illegally draining contaminated water.
Of course, the companies deny wrongdoing. Mostly, they refuse to speak to reporters. Many companies told investigators they weren’t charged for water use before, so they simply weren’t aware they should be paying. “These are multi-million dollar, transnational corporations that are listed on the stock exchange,” Bonilla laments. “And, in Tijuana, they steal water?” (2)
The Damage of Water Theft
2.3 billion gallons of contaminated product–including toxic sludge–poured into the Tijuana River in 2019. That wastewater ends up crossing into U.S. water, especially around San Diego and Southern California. After that, it ends up in the Pacific Ocean. The money that these big companies have allegedly defrauded Baja California of would have gone into bulking up the infrastructure–and hopefully lessening future spills. “It all makes sense now — why the situation deteriorated so quickly,” says Imperial Beach, U.S.A. Mayor Serge Dedina. “Why they never seemed to be able to fix anything. Some of the most powerful, wealthy corporations in the world we now know contributed to our sewage crisis.”
They’ve Been Getting Away
For instance, Hyundai has not paid for water since 2012. “Nothing is installed. There’s no meter, so they have volumes of water coming in, enjoying the free drainage and there’s absolutely no record of them at all at the water agency,” says Bonilla.
“It caught our attention when reviewing the budgets,” said Baja California’s secretary of the public integrity unit, Vincenta Espinoza Martínez. “We saw we were actually spending more than we were bringing in — more than our income was … and some accounts were being charged for very minimum consumption despite being very large companies … to the point where it was illogical.” (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-01--Old Fashioned Baking Soda Found To Be The Most Effective At Removing Pesticide Residue

I don ’ t know about you , but I tend to be a little lazy when it comes to cleaning my fruits and vegetables .
I just do a quick rinse under the tap and then wipe them off with a paper towel .
Part of this laziness is because I tend to buy organic whenever I can .
However , it ’ s not just pesticides you have to worry about .
There can be all kinds of bacteria and germs on fruits and vegetables so cleaning them should be a step you don ’ t miss , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raw .
Luckily , there ’ s an easy way to remove pesticide residue from your fresh produce : Good old-fashioned baking soda .
( 1 ) According to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry , this simple pantry staple does a particularly good job at removing pesticides from your fruit and veggies .
The team at the University of Massachusetts used gala apples as their test fruit with impressive results .
( 1 ) The researchers applied thiabendazole and phosmet to organic apples for their study .
They chose thiabendazole because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The phosmet is commonly used , so it made a logical second choice .
( 1 ) Surprisingly , the bleach solution is a common product used to rinse fresh produce .
Seems counter-intuitive to me .
Best Way For Removing Pesticides The tap water and bleach product did little to remove the pesticides .
This wasn ’ t a quick rinse either .
They washed the apples for a good two minutes .
The baking soda , on the other hand , made short work of the pesticide residue .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the toxin chemicals almost completely .
Impressive !
( 1 ) The study showed 80 percent of the thiabendazole was removed from the apples after 12 and 15-minute washes .
It was even more effective in removing the phosmet , at 96 percent after washing for the same amount of time .
( 1 ) Researchers accounted for the difference between the two pesticides because the thiabendazole tends to be absorbed by the apple up to 80 micrometers deep .
Phosmet on the other hand only penetrates about 20 micrometers .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to many DIYers who have used baking soda for years .
Common mixes of baking soda with water , vinegar , or lemon juice are often touted online as the best way to clean toxins from fresh produce .
Placing the solution in a spray bottle makes it easy to apply the cleanser and then rinse it off before consuming .
( 2 ) According to the infamous Dirty Dozen list produced by the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) , the foods with the most pesticides for 2020 are : ( 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ’ s also the Clean Fifteen to help you shop wisely : ( 3 ) The EWG looks at the amount of pesticide residue found on each item to make their list .
( 3 ) The moral of the story is : Buy organic , or stock up on baking soda to remove harmful chemicals before you pop that strawberry in your mouth !

I don’t know about you, but I tend to be a little lazy when it comes to cleaning my fruits and vegetables. I just do a quick rinse under the tap and then wipe them off with a paper towel. Part of this laziness is because I tend to buy organic whenever I can. However, it’s not just pesticides you have to worry about. There can be all kinds of bacteria and germs on fruits and vegetables so cleaning them should be a step you don’t miss, especially if you’re eating them raw. Luckily, there’s an easy way to remove pesticide residue from your fresh produce: Good old-fashioned baking soda. (1)
Study Explores Removing Pesticides
According to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, this simple pantry staple does a particularly good job at removing pesticides from your fruit and veggies. The team at the University of Massachusetts used gala apples as their test fruit with impressive results. (1)
The researchers applied thiabendazole and phosmet to organic apples for their study. They chose thiabendazole because it is known to penetrate apple skin. The phosmet is commonly used, so it made a logical second choice. (1)
Three Ways For Removing Pesticides
The fruit underwent a series of washing methods including (1):
Tap water A one percent baking soda/water solution A commercial bleach solution approved by the United States Environmental Protection Agency
Surprisingly, the bleach solution is a common product used to rinse fresh produce. Seems counter-intuitive to me.
Best Way For Removing Pesticides
The tap water and bleach product did little to remove the pesticides. This wasn’t a quick rinse either. They washed the apples for a good two minutes. The baking soda, on the other hand, made short work of the pesticide residue. In fact, it actually got rid of the toxin chemicals almost completely. Impressive! (1)
The study showed 80 percent of the thiabendazole was removed from the apples after 12 and 15-minute washes. It was even more effective in removing the phosmet, at 96 percent after washing for the same amount of time. (1)
Researchers accounted for the difference between the two pesticides because the thiabendazole tends to be absorbed by the apple up to 80 micrometers deep. Phosmet on the other hand only penetrates about 20 micrometers. (1)
DIYers Methods For Removing Pesticides
This news comes as no surprise to many DIYers who have used baking soda for years. Common mixes of baking soda with water, vinegar, or lemon juice are often touted online as the best way to clean toxins from fresh produce. Placing the solution in a spray bottle makes it easy to apply the cleanser and then rinse it off before consuming. (2)
Top Foods For Removing Pesticides
According to the infamous Dirty Dozen list produced by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the foods with the most pesticides for 2020 are: (3)
Strawberries Spinach Kale Nectarines Apples Grapes Peaches Cherries Pears Tomatoes Celery Potatoes
But don’t worry, there’s also the Clean Fifteen to help you shop wisely: (3)
Avocados Sweet corn Pineapple Onions Papaya Sweet peas (frozen) Eggplants Asparagus Cauliflower Cantaloupes Broccoli Mushrooms Cabbage Honeydew melon Kiwi
The EWG looks at the amount of pesticide residue found on each item to make their list. (3)
The moral of the story is: Buy organic, or stock up on baking soda to remove harmful chemicals before you pop that strawberry in your mouth!


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-02--Dangerous ‘Benadryl Challenge’ On TikTok Blamed For Teen’s Death

In the everlasting quest for more eyeballs on social media posts , a new kind of “ challenge ” is making its way across the social media platform TikTok .
It ’ s known as the “ Benadryl Challenge ” .
( 1 ) TikTok , a network that shares videos created by its users , has a huge base of customers in the younger set… teens and early 20s .
Lately the Benadryl Challenge… the newest in viral publicity stunts… has begun receiving some negative attention in the media .
Now it is being blamed for the death of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 ) What Is The Benadryl Challenge ?
This is similar to the bizarre Tide Pod Challenge of 2017 , wherein participants ingested Tide laundry detergent , on film .
( 3 ) The Benadryl Challenge requires that a participant ingest an alarming amount of Benadryl tablets , on film , and share their experience in a TikTok video .
With the Tide Pod challenge , there were at least 6 reported deaths and thousands of calls to local poison control centers .
( 3 ) The Benadryl Challenge seems as though it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the Oklahoma teen ’ s cause of death was deemed an overdose of Benadryl .
It ’ s also not the first time hospitals have seen this lately .
How Does The Benadryl Challenge Work ?
The idea is that the person taking the challenge ingests a high dose of Benadryl , enough to make them hallucinate , or “ trip ” .
But a dose this high can actually cause disruptions in how the heart pumps blood , which can lead to seizures and permanent health problems later in life .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 2 ) What Is Benadryl , Exactly ?
Benadryl is also known as diphenhydramine , and it is used as an antihistamine .
It reduces the effects of an allergy attack , which is a huge spike of histamine in your body .
It ’ s the histamine that makes you cough and sneeze , experience watery eyes and skin rashes too .
The antihistamine in Benadryl is what helps calm those physical reactions .
But it can also cause sleepiness and other side effects .
For this reason , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when driving or operating machinery on Benadryl , and never take more than the recommended dosage .
People with certain preexisting health conditions may need to avoid the drug altogether and should definitely seek the advice of their doctor before using it .
( 4 ) The family of the teen who died , say they are confident that she did not take her own life .
They said she was a “ happy and faith-driven teen , ” who was “ not one to experiment with drugs.
” ( 2 ) In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Medical Center in Texas issued a warning to parents about the Benadryl Challenge .
This , after they treated three teens for Benadryl overdose earlier in the year .
All of the teens survived , though one of them reportedly took 14 pills at one time .
“ We have seen kids who overdose in suicide attempts , ” said the nurse who treated the teens at Cook Children ’ s .
“ But this was different .
These kids weren ’ t trying to harm themselves .
They watched a video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ milligrams to take and to see how it made them feel.
” ( 2 )

In the everlasting quest for more eyeballs on social media posts, a new kind of “challenge” is making its way across the social media platform TikTok. It’s known as the “Benadryl Challenge”. (1)
TikTok, a network that shares videos created by its users, has a huge base of customers in the younger set… teens and early 20s. Lately the Benadryl Challenge… the newest in viral publicity stunts… has begun receiving some negative attention in the media. Now it is being blamed for the death of one 15-year-old teen in Oklahoma. (2)
What Is The Benadryl Challenge?
This is similar to the bizarre Tide Pod Challenge of 2017, wherein participants ingested Tide laundry detergent, on film. (3) The Benadryl Challenge requires that a participant ingest an alarming amount of Benadryl tablets, on film, and share their experience in a TikTok video.
With the Tide Pod challenge, there were at least 6 reported deaths and thousands of calls to local poison control centers. (3) The Benadryl Challenge seems as though it may be headed a similar direction, as the Oklahoma teen’s cause of death was deemed an overdose of Benadryl. It’s also not the first time hospitals have seen this lately.
How Does The Benadryl Challenge Work?
The idea is that the person taking the challenge ingests a high dose of Benadryl, enough to make them hallucinate, or “trip”. But a dose this high can actually cause disruptions in how the heart pumps blood, which can lead to seizures and permanent health problems later in life. Death is also a distinct possibility. (2)
What Is Benadryl, Exactly?
Benadryl is also known as diphenhydramine, and it is used as an antihistamine. It reduces the effects of an allergy attack, which is a huge spike of histamine in your body. It’s the histamine that makes you cough and sneeze, experience watery eyes and skin rashes too. The antihistamine in Benadryl is what helps calm those physical reactions. But it can also cause sleepiness and other side effects. For this reason, it’s recommended that people use extreme caution when driving or operating machinery on Benadryl, and never take more than the recommended dosage. People with certain preexisting health conditions may need to avoid the drug altogether and should definitely seek the advice of their doctor before using it. (4)
The family of the teen who died, say they are confident that she did not take her own life. They said she was a “happy and faith-driven teen,” who was “not one to experiment with drugs.” (2)
In August of 2020, Cook Children’s Medical Center in Texas issued a warning to parents about the Benadryl Challenge. This, after they treated three teens for Benadryl overdose earlier in the year.
All of the teens survived, though one of them reportedly took 14 pills at one time.
“We have seen kids who overdose in suicide attempts,” said the nurse who treated the teens at Cook Children’s. “But this was different. These kids weren’t trying to harm themselves. They watched a video and it told them exactly how many milligrams to take and to see how it made them feel.” (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-03--Black Farmers File Suit Against Monsanto Seeking To Block Sale Of Roundup

A federal lawsuit filed by the National Black Farmers Association ( NBFA ) on August 26 , 2020 hopes to block Monsanto and its German parent company , Bayer , from selling what has quickly become the most infamous weed killer on earth : Roundup .
The group alleges Monsanto did not share the known risks associated with both Roundup-resistant seeds and Roundup .
Use of the products has led to an endless cycle which forces black farmers to use them in increasingly larger amounts .
( 1 ) The company is surprisingly unconcerned with the risks , continuing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 10 billion or more to settle tens of thousands of claims that their Roundup products cause cancer .
In fact , they refused to even provide warning labels on their products .
( 1 ) Sadly , the company views the suit as nothing more than a ploy to get money .
“ People should see this action for what it is — an attempt by plaintiffs ’ lawyers to use media and more litigation to further their own financial interests , ” says Bayer in a statement .
“ There is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the health claims in this suit , as Roundup has been assessed and approved by independent health regulators worldwide , including the EPA , which have found that Roundup can be used safely as directed.
” ( 1 ) However , the NBFA ’ s lawyers disagree .
The suit alleges Monsanto knowingly bought up seed companies and shelf space effectively “ crowding out conventional varieties.
” This leaves black farmers little choice but to use genetically modified seeds as these are the only seeds that can stand up to the potent herbicide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Roundup have become resistant to the product , farmers must also use more of the product in hand with other dangerous chemicals .
( 1 ) “ The cycle can only be broken by removing the product from the market , ” says Chris Schnieders , one of the attorneys involved in filing the suit .
As well , according to Jim Onder , a co-counsel for the suit , there are at least 25,000 alleged cancer victims who didn ’ t settle with Bayer , some of which are members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Bayer seems to think the fault is not theirs since farmers have many seed and weed killer choices .
“ Competition and choice are alive and well in agriculture and benefit farmers equally , ” their statement concludes .
However , when you consider their strategy , this smacks of untruth .
( 1 ) Bayer hoped settlements in June 2020 would end the uncertainty brought on by the suits which are affecting their valuation and reputation .
Two separate California juries ordered $ 286 million and $ 2 billion be paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , judges and appeals courts later reduced settlements into the tens of millions .
That ’ s so wrong , considering the association ’ s founder and president , John Wesley Boyd Jr. says the settlements are mere “ pennies ” to them .
( 1 ) The NBFA has 109,000 members in 42 states .
The suit alleges thousands of them have been injured by the product , while others believe they are developing cancer .
“ I don ’ t know a Black farmer that has not used the product , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s how big the issue is.
” ( 1 ) The suit shows black farmers have been denied technical assistance to learn how to safely use the chemicals .
It also alleges a lack of a “ plain , clear warning ” put farmers at risk .
In fact , according to the suit , for decades Monsanto told black farmers the product is safe .
In response to this aspect of the suit , Bayer stated , “ Racism has no place in our society or at Bayer.
” How nice of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The shocking story behind the suit points out one more instance in which society failed the black community .
It is a clear example of corporate greed overshadowing the needs and well-being of black farmers and their families .
I for one hope to see the farmers come out the winners , and finally see this poisonous cycle broken .

A federal lawsuit filed by the National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) on August 26, 2020 hopes to block Monsanto and its German parent company, Bayer, from selling what has quickly become the most infamous weed killer on earth: Roundup. The group alleges Monsanto did not share the known risks associated with both Roundup-resistant seeds and Roundup. Use of the products has led to an endless cycle which forces black farmers to use them in increasingly larger amounts. (1)
Monsanto Refuses To Budge
The company is surprisingly unconcerned with the risks, continuing to sell the product despite paying a whopping $10 billion or more to settle tens of thousands of claims that their Roundup products cause cancer. In fact, they refused to even provide warning labels on their products. (1)
Sadly, the company views the suit as nothing more than a ploy to get money. “People should see this action for what it is — an attempt by plaintiffs’ lawyers to use media and more litigation to further their own financial interests,” says Bayer in a statement. “There is no basis in fact or law for the health claims in this suit, as Roundup has been assessed and approved by independent health regulators worldwide, including the EPA, which have found that Roundup can be used safely as directed.” (1)
Monsanto Strategy
However, the NBFA’s lawyers disagree. The suit alleges Monsanto knowingly bought up seed companies and shelf space effectively “crowding out conventional varieties.” This leaves black farmers little choice but to use genetically modified seeds as these are the only seeds that can stand up to the potent herbicide. (1)
As weeds targeted by Roundup have become resistant to the product, farmers must also use more of the product in hand with other dangerous chemicals. (1)
Cycle Created By Monsanto
“The cycle can only be broken by removing the product from the market,” says Chris Schnieders, one of the attorneys involved in filing the suit. As well, according to Jim Onder, a co-counsel for the suit, there are at least 25,000 alleged cancer victims who didn’t settle with Bayer, some of which are members of the NBFA. (1)
Meanwhile, Bayer seems to think the fault is not theirs since farmers have many seed and weed killer choices. “Competition and choice are alive and well in agriculture and benefit farmers equally,” their statement concludes. However, when you consider their strategy, this smacks of untruth. (1)
Monsanto Settlements Just “Pennies”
Bayer hoped settlements in June 2020 would end the uncertainty brought on by the suits which are affecting their valuation and reputation. Two separate California juries ordered $286 million and $2 billion be paid out in the past two-years. However, judges and appeals courts later reduced settlements into the tens of millions. That’s so wrong, considering the association’s founder and president, John Wesley Boyd Jr. says the settlements are mere “pennies” to them. (1)
Monsanto Roundup Affecting Farmers
The NBFA has 109,000 members in 42 states. The suit alleges thousands of them have been injured by the product, while others believe they are developing cancer. “I don’t know a Black farmer that has not used the product,” says Boyd. “That’s how big the issue is.” (1)
The suit shows black farmers have been denied technical assistance to learn how to safely use the chemicals. It also alleges a lack of a “plain, clear warning” put farmers at risk. In fact, according to the suit, for decades Monsanto told black farmers the product is safe. In response to this aspect of the suit, Bayer stated, “Racism has no place in our society or at Bayer.” How nice of them to care. (1)
The shocking story behind the suit points out one more instance in which society failed the black community. It is a clear example of corporate greed overshadowing the needs and well-being of black farmers and their families. I for one hope to see the farmers come out the winners, and finally see this poisonous cycle broken.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-03--Basil Leaves Work As A Cleaning Agent For Your Lungs And Might Help Fight Viruses And Infections

Have you heard of Ayurveda ?
It is a natural healing method from India , which originated over 5,000 years ago .
Ayurveda is Sanskrit for “ the science of life , ” and Western homeopathy is thought to be derived from this practice .
Ayurveda encourages preventative medicine and the use of natural substances , including herbs .
Practitioners recommend holy basil , also known as tulsi .
However , it isn ’ t just holy basil with medicinal effects .
Sweet basil also can help heal your body as well .
( 1 , 2 ) In an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Manoj Kutteri spoke on basil as the most powerful herb in the medicinal practice of Ayurveda .
Holy basil has properties such as antioxidants , antiseptics , antivirals , and Vitamin C. Dr. Kutteri is the Wellness Director of Atmantan Wellness Centre .
“ For viral infections like cold , flu , etc , medicinal tulsi leaves can be a perfect solution to fight through viral infections , increase immunity and recover from infections , ” he says .
Additionally , making a medicinal basil tea , or ingesting foods with basil as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immune booster and preventative measure .
( 2 ) It ’ s not just holy basil .
“ Basil or sweet basil ( Ocimum basilicum ) is cultivated throughout India and is known for its medicinal value , ” according to one abstract .
A study conducted in December 2019 tested the effects of extracts of basil leaves on the lungs of rats , to see if basil could be used in treating lung diseases .
Their results found that the “ effects of O. basilicum on pathological changes , immunological and inflammatory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential of the plant in asthma.
” ( 3 , 4 ) According to Parmeet Kaur , Senior Dietician of the Narayana Superspeciality Hospital , drinking tulsi tea every day can act to soothe a dry cough .
New Dehli TV ’ s Food division reports that tulsi ’ s “ antiseptic and analgesic properties [ can ] help cure many problems including dry cough .
.
.
allergic bronchitis , asthma and other lung diseases in no time.
” Additionally , tulsi possesses “ immunomodulatory ( to enhance immunity ) and antitussive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relief in the respiratory system .
In fact , it has certain oils that may clear the congestion.
” ( 5 ) Dr. Kutteri ’ s comments on the antiviral properties of basil leaves sing their praises , but he expands .
“ Chewing on one fresh medicinal tulsi leaf daily .
.
.
fight [ s ] through viral infections , ” he suggests .
He says that basil , in all its forms “ can help boost your immunity and provide some relief.
” New Dehli TV says that “ in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or tulsi , leaves are widely used to prepare desi concoctions to treat microbial infections and boost immunity.
” ( 2 , 5 ) Sweet basil “ leaf extract was highly effective in inhibiting carcinogen-induced tumor incidence in both the tumor models at peri-initiational level , ” according to a study on the effects of this herb on mice .
Furthermore , basil leaf extract remains “ associated with detoxification.
” Basil proves “ very effective in elevating antioxidant enzyme response.
” Parmeet Kaur says that tulsi “ has [ the ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chemical and physical stress.
” Additionally , he says it “ is rich in nutrients such as Vitamin K. ” ( 2 , 3 )

Have you heard of Ayurveda? It is a natural healing method from India, which originated over 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda is Sanskrit for “the science of life,” and Western homeopathy is thought to be derived from this practice. Ayurveda encourages preventative medicine and the use of natural substances, including herbs. Practitioners recommend holy basil, also known as tulsi. However, it isn’t just holy basil with medicinal effects. Sweet basil also can help heal your body as well. (1, 2)
Holy Basil
In an interview with Times Now News, Dr. Manoj Kutteri spoke on basil as the most powerful herb in the medicinal practice of Ayurveda. Holy basil has properties such as antioxidants, antiseptics, antivirals, and Vitamin C. Dr. Kutteri is the Wellness Director of Atmantan Wellness Centre. “For viral infections like cold, flu, etc, medicinal tulsi leaves can be a perfect solution to fight through viral infections, increase immunity and recover from infections,” he says. Additionally, making a medicinal basil tea, or ingesting foods with basil as an ingredient, can help as an immune booster and preventative measure. (2)
Basil In The Lungs
Sweet Basil
It’s not just holy basil. “Basil or sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is cultivated throughout India and is known for its medicinal value,” according to one abstract.
A study conducted in December 2019 tested the effects of extracts of basil leaves on the lungs of rats, to see if basil could be used in treating lung diseases. Their results found that the “effects of O. basilicum on pathological changes, immunological and inflammatory markers . . . suggests the therapeutic potential of the plant in asthma.” (3, 4)
Holy Basil
According to Parmeet Kaur, Senior Dietician of the Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, drinking tulsi tea every day can act to soothe a dry cough. New Dehli TV’s Food division reports that tulsi’s “antiseptic and analgesic properties [can] help cure many problems including dry cough . . . allergic bronchitis, asthma and other lung diseases in no time.” Additionally, tulsi possesses “immunomodulatory (to enhance immunity) and antitussive (relieves cough) properties that provide relief in the respiratory system. In fact, it has certain oils that may clear the congestion.” (5)
Fighting Viruses and Infections
Dr. Kutteri’s comments on the antiviral properties of basil leaves sing their praises, but he expands. “Chewing on one fresh medicinal tulsi leaf daily . . . fight[s] through viral infections,” he suggests. He says that basil, in all its forms “can help boost your immunity and provide some relief.”
New Dehli TV says that “in Ayurvedic tradition[,] Holy basil, or tulsi, leaves are widely used to prepare desi concoctions to treat microbial infections and boost immunity.” (2, 5)
Additional Properties of Basil
Sweet basil “leaf extract was highly effective in inhibiting carcinogen-induced tumor incidence in both the tumor models at peri-initiational level,” according to a study on the effects of this herb on mice. Furthermore, basil leaf extract remains “associated with detoxification.” Basil proves “very effective in elevating antioxidant enzyme response.”
Parmeet Kaur says that tulsi “has [the ability to] protect organs and tissues against chemical and physical stress.”
Additionally, he says it “is rich in nutrients such as Vitamin K.” (2, 3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-03--A Molecule In Honeybee Venom Destroys Breast Cancer Cells In The Lab, Study Shows

Australian researchers have found that honeybee venom kills aggressive breast cancer cells .
And it has the added benefit of not damaging healthy cells .
( 1 , 2 ) Researchers published the study in the international , peer-reviewed journal npj Precision Oncology on September 1 , 2020 .
Dr. Ciara Duffy from the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and The University of Western Australia led the research team .
( 1 , 2 ) The team used venom from 312 honeybees and bumblebees hailing from England , Ireland , and Perth Western Australia .
They tested them on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including triple-negative breast cancer , which is more challenging to treat than other types .
( 1 , 2 , 3 ) The scientists learned that , while bumblebee venom had little effect on the cancer cells , the honeybee venom from all locations killed the cancerous cells .
The difference between the two types of venom is that honeybee venom contains a peptide called melittin .
Melittin makes up half of honeybee venom by weight .
It ’ s the component that makes honeybee venom so effective at destroying cancer cells .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested a very small , positively charged peptide in honeybee venom called melittin , which we could reproduce synthetically , and found that the synthetic product mirrored the majority of the anti-cancer effects of honeybee venom , ” Dr. Duffy said in an interview with the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research .
“ We found both honeybee venom and melittin significantly , selectively and rapidly reduced the viability of triple-negative breast cancer and HER2-enriched breast cancer cells.
” ( 1 ) At a specific concentration , melittin can kill off cancerous cells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The venom was extremely potent , ” Dr. Duffy said.
“ We found that melittin can completely destroy cancer cell membranes within 60 minutes.
” ( 1 , 2 ) Another amazing effect of melittin is its ability to reduce the chemical messages of cancer cells within 20 minutes .
These messages are crucial to cancer ’ s growth , so stopping them is important to keep cancer from spreading .
( 1 , 2 ) Western Australia ’ s Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken told the Perkins Institute , “ This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a major component of honeybee venom , can suppress the growth of deadly breast cancer cells , particularly triple-negative breast cancer.
” ( 1 ) He continued , “ Significantly , this study demonstrates how melittin interferes with signaling pathways within breast cancer cells to reduce cell replication .
It provides another wonderful example of where compounds in nature can be used to treat human diseases.
” ( 1 ) Dr. Duffy ’ s team also found that melittin could be used effectively with chemotherapy .
Melittin creates pores in breast cancer cell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter the cells and kill them off .
( 1 , 2 ) We found that melittin can be used with small molecules or chemotherapies , such as docetaxel , to treat highly-aggressive types of breast cancer .
The combination of melittin and docetaxel was extremely efficient in reducing tumor growth in mice , ” Dr. Duffy said .
( 1 ) Future Research on the Effects of Melittin on Breast Cancer Duffy ’ s team plans to continue their studies of melittin by learning about its effects on other types of cancer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , endometrial , bladder , lung , colon , and head , and neck cancers .
They will also explore the best delivery method of melittin , as well as toxicities and maximum tolerated doses .
The research team believes that melittin could provide an easily accessible and cost-effective cancer treatment in areas that are remote or less developed .
( 2 )

Honeybee Venom Kills Breast Cancer Cells
Australian researchers have found that honeybee venom kills aggressive breast cancer cells. And it has the added benefit of not damaging healthy cells. (1, 2)
Researchers published the study in the international, peer-reviewed journal npj Precision Oncology on September 1, 2020. Dr. Ciara Duffy from the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and The University of Western Australia led the research team. (1, 2)
The team used venom from 312 honeybees and bumblebees hailing from England, Ireland, and Perth Western Australia. They tested them on different clinical subtypes of breast cancer, including triple-negative breast cancer, which is more challenging to treat than other types. (1, 2, 3)
The scientists learned that, while bumblebee venom had little effect on the cancer cells, the honeybee venom from all locations killed the cancerous cells. The difference between the two types of venom is that honeybee venom contains a peptide called melittin. Melittin makes up half of honeybee venom by weight. It’s the component that makes honeybee venom so effective at destroying cancer cells. (1, 2)
“We tested a very small, positively charged peptide in honeybee venom called melittin, which we could reproduce synthetically, and found that the synthetic product mirrored the majority of the anti-cancer effects of honeybee venom,” Dr. Duffy said in an interview with the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. “We found both honeybee venom and melittin significantly, selectively and rapidly reduced the viability of triple-negative breast cancer and HER2-enriched breast cancer cells.” (1)
Melittin
At a specific concentration, melittin can kill off cancerous cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. “The venom was extremely potent,” Dr. Duffy said.“We found that melittin can completely destroy cancer cell membranes within 60 minutes.” (1, 2)
Another amazing effect of melittin is its ability to reduce the chemical messages of cancer cells within 20 minutes. These messages are crucial to cancer’s growth, so stopping them is important to keep cancer from spreading. (1, 2)
Western Australia’s Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken told the Perkins Institute, “This is an incredibly exciting observation that melittin, a major component of honeybee venom, can suppress the growth of deadly breast cancer cells, particularly triple-negative breast cancer.” (1)
He continued, “Significantly, this study demonstrates how melittin interferes with signaling pathways within breast cancer cells to reduce cell replication. It provides another wonderful example of where compounds in nature can be used to treat human diseases.” (1)
Dr. Duffy’s team also found that melittin could be used effectively with chemotherapy. Melittin creates pores in breast cancer cell membranes, which allows other treatments to enter the cells and kill them off. (1, 2)
We found that melittin can be used with small molecules or chemotherapies, such as docetaxel, to treat highly-aggressive types of breast cancer. The combination of melittin and docetaxel was extremely efficient in reducing tumor growth in mice,” Dr. Duffy said. (1)
Future Research on the Effects of Melittin on Breast Cancer
Duffy’s team plans to continue their studies of melittin by learning about its effects on other types of cancer, including lung, gastric, ovarian, endometrial, bladder, lung, colon, and head, and neck cancers. They will also explore the best delivery method of melittin, as well as toxicities and maximum tolerated doses. The research team believes that melittin could provide an easily accessible and cost-effective cancer treatment in areas that are remote or less developed. (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-04--17 Things That Happen To Your Body When You Eat Two Ripe Bananas Every Day For 30 Days

Bananas are the perfect snack on the go .
They ’ re easy to just grab and eat .
However , there are also amazing benefits to them .
Below , we ’ ll look at 17 reasons why you should eat two bananas a day for optimal health .
• They Keep Your Blood Pressure Under Control The potassium content of bananas ( one medium-sized banana has 13 % of your daily potassium ) helps your body rid itself of extra sodium when you urinate .
Additionally , bananas relax the walls of your blood vessels .
Both of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure .
( 1 ) Laura Flores , a nutritionist in San Diego , says bananas “ protect against developing Type 2 diabetes.
” Time to start packing them in your lunch !
( 2 ) One serving of banana , or one medium banana , has 0g of fat , making it an appealing snack .
( 3 ) • Just Say “ No ” To Kidney Stones It ’ s the potassium again !
The potassium in bananas can help prevent your body from producing kidney stones , which are painful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potassium in bananas keeps your muscles working well , which helps if you ’ re prone to muscle soreness , or if you ’ re involved in sports like running or yoga where you need to be limber .
( 1 ) • They Can Help With Stomach Problems , Too If you ’ re prone to diarrhea or stomach problems , grab bananas .
They can replenish the electrolytes that are lost with illness .
Not only that , bananas are also considered easy to digest , due to how the starch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Nutritionist Laura Flores says that “ bananas are high in antioxidants , which can provide protection from free radicals , which we come into contact with every day , from the sunlight to the lotion you put on your skin.
” ( 2 ) • The Riper The Better : They Boost Blood Cells If your banana has dark speckles on it , don ’ t throw it away .
The ones with these dark spots are 8 times better at enhancing the white blood cells in the body .
White blood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fight infection in the body .
( 2 ) • They Help You Lose Weight Three different studies show that while other fruits are linked to long-term weight gain , bananas are actually linked to losing weight over time .
So if you ’ ve heard bananas are bloating , it ’ s just a myth .
( 3 ) Banana peels have antioxidant chemicals and can be used to soothe skin irritations , such as bug bites .
( 3 ) One banana has three grams of your daily fiber intake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breakfast , you ’ ve conquered ⅕ of your daily fiber goals .
( 1 ) If you like your bananas green , you ’ re still helping yourself !
The resistant starch in the underripe ones , help lower your blood sugar .
( 1 ) • They Take The Edge Off ( The Flu ) The probiotics contained in bananas will help reduce the problems caused by colds and flus .
( 1 ) Two bananas will give you half of your daily vitamin B6 goals !
( 1 ) Vitamin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give you 30 % of your recommended daily dose .
( 2 ) This amazing fruit contains Vitamin A , which can help your eyesight !
( 1 ) “ Due to high levels of tryptophan , which the body converts to serotonin , the mood-elevating brain neurotransmitter , ” they are great for improving mood , according to Laura Flores .
( 2 )

Bananas are the perfect snack on the go. They’re easy to just grab and eat. However, there are also amazing benefits to them. Below, we’ll look at 17 reasons why you should eat two bananas a day for optimal health.
They Keep Your Blood Pressure Under Control
The potassium content of bananas (one medium-sized banana has 13% of your daily potassium) helps your body rid itself of extra sodium when you urinate. Additionally, bananas relax the walls of your blood vessels. Both of these things are instrumental in lowering blood pressure. (1)
Bananas Fight Diabetes
Laura Flores, a nutritionist in San Diego, says bananas “protect against developing Type 2 diabetes.” Time to start packing them in your lunch! (2)
They Are Naturally Fat-Free
One serving of banana, or one medium banana, has 0g of fat, making it an appealing snack. (3)
Just Say “No” To Kidney Stones
It’s the potassium again! The potassium in bananas can help prevent your body from producing kidney stones, which are painful to pass. (1)
Bananas Make Your Muscles Feel Good
The potassium in bananas keeps your muscles working well, which helps if you’re prone to muscle soreness, or if you’re involved in sports like running or yoga where you need to be limber. (1)
They Can Help With Stomach Problems, Too
If you’re prone to diarrhea or stomach problems, grab bananas. They can replenish the electrolytes that are lost with illness. Not only that, bananas are also considered easy to digest, due to how the starch in them breaks down. (3)
Bananas Shield Against Free Radicals
Nutritionist Laura Flores says that “bananas are high in antioxidants, which can provide protection from free radicals, which we come into contact with every day, from the sunlight to the lotion you put on your skin.” (2)
The Riper The Better: They Boost Blood Cells
If your banana has dark speckles on it, don’t throw it away. The ones with these dark spots are 8 times better at enhancing the white blood cells in the body. White blood cells are those little guys that work to fight infection in the body. (2)
They Help You Lose Weight
Three different studies show that while other fruits are linked to long-term weight gain, bananas are actually linked to losing weight over time. So if you’ve heard bananas are bloating, it’s just a myth. (3)
The Peels Help Bug Bites
Banana peels have antioxidant chemicals and can be used to soothe skin irritations, such as bug bites. (3)
2 Bananas= 20% Of Daily Fiber
One banana has three grams of your daily fiber intake. That means by having two for breakfast, you’ve conquered ⅕ of your daily fiber goals. (1)
The Less-Ripe Ones Lower Blood Sugar
If you like your bananas green, you’re still helping yourself! The resistant starch in the underripe ones, help lower your blood sugar. (1)
They Take The Edge Off (The Flu)
The probiotics contained in bananas will help reduce the problems caused by colds and flus. (1)
Bananas And B6
Two bananas will give you half of your daily vitamin B6 goals! (1)
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is so important–and two bananas will give you 30% of your recommended daily dose. (2)
Super Vision
This amazing fruit contains Vitamin A, which can help your eyesight! (1)
They Fight Depression
“Due to high levels of tryptophan, which the body converts to serotonin, the mood-elevating brain neurotransmitter,” they are great for improving mood, according to Laura Flores. (2)