healthyholisticliving--2020-09-26--Toddler Dies In Her Sleep After Parents Are Told By Doctor She Only Has The Flu

Usually , I try to write articles that stick closely to the facts .
Sometimes , I do give my opinion .
I ’ m only human .
But there are very few times , if any , that I ’ ve said , let ’ s examine the story , but then talk about it , leave the reporting aside .
Today , with the story of the toddler who died of the flu , is going to be that day .
The Background On The Ontario Toddler It ’ s a very sad story .
Devastating , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arzo Wahab and her husband , whose name is unmentioned , took their daughter , Sophia , to Sick Kids in Toronto ( formally known as the Hospital for Sick Children ) .
Sophia was “ lethargic , throwing up , and had discoloured eyes.
” It was a six-hour wait .
They were told it would be another seven .
They brought the child to a walk-in clinic in Newmarket , and the doctor told them she needed to be seen urgently .
So they headed to Southlake Regional Health Centre .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ initially ready for tests , the supervisor pushed back .
Sophia had the flu , he said , and probably one infection that had morphed into another .
Go home , he said .
Come back if she ’ s still sick in four days .
She died in three .
( 1 ) The supervising doctor was callous and foolish .
But he wasn ’ t wrong , in terms of her diagnosis .
She did have one infection , Strep A , that turned into a bile infection .
Her Strep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she also had pneumonia .
We asked her so many times to do tests , ” says Wahab .
“ But we kept getting brushed off .
I told the doctor that her eyes don ’ t look the same – this is my kid , I knew she wasn ’ t well.
” ( 1 ) Sophia ’ s mother is suing Southlake Regional Health Centre .
Quite honestly , she ’ s not wrong to do so .
The supervising physician was callous , he was dismissive , and he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apply his knowledge .
But there ’ s things and people who are getting caught up in this that shouldn ’ t be .
My best friend is a nurse .
She ’ d like to become a doctor , and , in fact , is getting into several prestigious med schools .
She has told me that in healthcare , everywhere–as she has worked in the States , as well–there is a divide .
Doctors often see themselves as superior to anyone else in health care , because of their long amounts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students and nurses and parents because to allow another perspective is to admit they are not all-powerful .
That ’ s what happened here .
There was a good doctor in the walk-in clinic .
The resident was ready to do the work .
Then the supervising doctor stepped in .
Women are less listened to by doctors .
Women are more likely to have their pain ignored and their fears dismissed in the medical system .
Esther Chen is a doctor at Zuckerburg San Francisco General Hospital .
She says , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sexism , or that “ we judge women and pain in terms of their presentation for different clinical conditions.
” Could the fact that Sophia was a girl and her mother , a woman , was her most vocal advocate ?
It could be .
It could be the arrogance .
But , it ’ s a troubling idea .
( 2 ) Americans hear stories of Canadian wait times all the time .
Here ’ s the truth ; you may have to wait a while for many procedures .
But , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s based on how serious they take you .
A few weeks ago , I went to the hospital with an illness .
I won ’ t share all my private medical history , but it was serious enough that without treatment , I could have died .
I saw a doctor in less than 20 minutes .
There ’ s a reason why this happened to me , while Sophia faced a 13-hour-long ER wait .
First , it ’ s the city .
Toronto is big .
Really big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sick people .
Primarily , though , it can be summed up by language .
I came across this idea on an American policing forum .
People were bemoaning how the police took so long to show up , and a former cop chimed in .
The secret , he explained , is in how you describe things .
If you say , “ hi officer , so , I just broke up with my boyfriend , and he ’ s been so weird , and now he ’ s here , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you say , “ a man is trying to break into my house , ” that cop is taking you seriously .
I believe it to be the same for doctors .
If they don ’ t think you ’ re “ seriously ill , ” you ’ re not top priority–and that decision is often based on how you explain your symptoms .

Usually, I try to write articles that stick closely to the facts. Sometimes, I do give my opinion. I’m only human. But there are very few times, if any, that I’ve said, let’s examine the story, but then talk about it, leave the reporting aside. Today, with the story of the toddler who died of the flu, is going to be that day.
The Background On The Ontario Toddler
It’s a very sad story. Devastating, in fact. Around Christmastime, 2019, Arzo Wahab and her husband, whose name is unmentioned, took their daughter, Sophia, to Sick Kids in Toronto (formally known as the Hospital for Sick Children). Sophia was “lethargic, throwing up, and had discoloured eyes.”
It was a six-hour wait. They were told it would be another seven.
They brought the child to a walk-in clinic in Newmarket, and the doctor told them she needed to be seen urgently. So they headed to Southlake Regional Health Centre. There, although the resident doctor was initially ready for tests, the supervisor pushed back. Sophia had the flu, he said, and probably one infection that had morphed into another. Go home, he said. Come back if she’s still sick in four days.
She died in three. (1)
Sophia’s Flu
The supervising doctor was callous and foolish. But he wasn’t wrong, in terms of her diagnosis. She did have one infection, Strep A, that turned into a bile infection. Her Strep A turned septic, however, and she also had pneumonia.
We asked her so many times to do tests,” says Wahab. “But we kept getting brushed off. I told the doctor that her eyes don’t look the same – this is my kid, I knew she wasn’t well.” (1)
It’s Not All Canadian Healthcare
Sophia’s mother is suing Southlake Regional Health Centre. Quite honestly, she’s not wrong to do so. The supervising physician was callous, he was dismissive, and he was wrong, in terms of how to apply his knowledge.
But there’s things and people who are getting caught up in this that shouldn’t be.
The Inside Scoop
My best friend is a nurse. She’d like to become a doctor, and, in fact, is getting into several prestigious med schools. She has told me that in healthcare, everywhere–as she has worked in the States, as well–there is a divide. Doctors often see themselves as superior to anyone else in health care, because of their long amounts of training. They will ignore med students and nurses and parents because to allow another perspective is to admit they are not all-powerful.
That’s what happened here. There was a good doctor in the walk-in clinic. The resident was ready to do the work. Then the supervising doctor stepped in.
Speculation
Women are less listened to by doctors. Women are more likely to have their pain ignored and their fears dismissed in the medical system. Esther Chen is a doctor at Zuckerburg San Francisco General Hospital. She says, it could be due to ingrained, unconscious sexism, or that “we judge women and pain in terms of their presentation for different clinical conditions.” Could the fact that Sophia was a girl and her mother, a woman, was her most vocal advocate? It could be. It could be the arrogance. But, it’s a troubling idea. (2)
The Wait Times
Americans hear stories of Canadian wait times all the time. Here’s the truth; you may have to wait a while for many procedures. But, when it comes to Canadian healthcare, it’s based on how serious they take you. A few weeks ago, I went to the hospital with an illness. I won’t share all my private medical history, but it was serious enough that without treatment, I could have died. I saw a doctor in less than 20 minutes.
There’s a reason why this happened to me, while Sophia faced a 13-hour-long ER wait. First, it’s the city. Toronto is big. Really big. There’s a lot of sick people.
Primarily, though, it can be summed up by language.
Language
I came across this idea on an American policing forum. People were bemoaning how the police took so long to show up, and a former cop chimed in.
The secret, he explained, is in how you describe things. If you say, “hi officer, so, I just broke up with my boyfriend, and he’s been so weird, and now he’s here,” the cop has already tuned you out. If you say, “a man is trying to break into my house,” that cop is taking you seriously. I believe it to be the same for doctors. If they don’t think you’re “seriously ill,” you’re not top priority–and that decision is often based on how you explain your symptoms.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-28--Research Reveals How Honeybee Venom Can Help Beat Breast Cancer

If you thought that we only get sweet delicious honey from bees you may be surprised by the many other positive benefits that these little fellows can have in our lives .
Possibly even beating breast cancer .
For thousands of years , Europeans had used not only the honey but the propolis and venom of their native honeybees ( Apis mellifera ) for medicinal purposes .
( 1 ) The various components of bee venom have been known to be used in the treatment of diseases , like arthritis , rheumatism , pain , skin diseases , and cancerous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of honeybee venom is melittin , which now is being tested against some subtypes of breast cancer .
( 2 ) According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation , 1 of 8 women in The United States will get diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime .
It ’ s estimated that there will be 276,480 new breast cancer cases this year .
From that 10 % to 20 % will be TNBC ( Triple Negative Breast Cancer ) which is a more aggressive form of cancer and it has proven more problematic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is known to strike more among young people , African Americans , Hispanics , and/or those with a BRCA1 ( BReast CAncer 1 ) gene mutation .
( 4 ) HER2-positive stands for Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2 , this is a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells .
It is recommended that every breast cancer patient is tested for HER2 , as this turns out to be more intrusive than other types of breast cancers .
( 5 ) Located in Perth , Australia the Harry Perkins Institute of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leading research establishments that has been active since 1998 .
( 6 ) There Dr. Ciara Duffy and her colleagues extracted the venom and the melittin compound from 312 honeybees and bumblebees from Perth Western Australia , Ireland , and England .
The honeybees from these regions are considered the healthiest from the 20,000 types of bees out there .
Then , they proceeded to test for anti-cancer properties to fight against different subtypes of breast cancer .
This had never been investigated before .
The results of this test were surprisingly good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 % of the cancer cells .
And with minimal effects on normal cells using a specific concentration of honeybee venom .
In Dr. Duffy ’ s words : “ The venom was extremely potent ” .
( 6 ) The research team noted that the melittin compound in honeybee venom eliminated breast cancer cell membranes in 60 min or less .
Within 20 minutes , it reduced cancer cell growth and division by blocking the chemical messages among cancer cells .
This was not the case for the venom extracted from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not as effective as the venom of the honeybee .
These results are especially promising for breast cancer subtypes like TNBC and HER2-positive variations that are very difficult to treat .
The promising results of this first trial using honeybee venom can provide direction .
Perhaps even to point researchers towards developing and improving newer therapies .
Employing natural products that are more available and cost-effective in many places around the world .
The fight is an ongoing one .
Researchers are trying a variety of new approaches like the one conducted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Medical Research .
Meantime , it is important to be aware of the risk factors .
It ’ s essential to gather practical usable information and follow up regular check-ups for early detection .
For more information about breast cancer , you can go to https : //www.nationalbreastcancer.org/

More Than Honey
If you thought that we only get sweet delicious honey from bees you may be surprised by the many other positive benefits that these little fellows can have in our lives. Possibly even beating breast cancer.
For thousands of years, Europeans had used not only the honey but the propolis and venom of their native honeybees (Apis mellifera) for medicinal purposes. (1)
The various components of bee venom have been known to be used in the treatment of diseases, like arthritis, rheumatism, pain, skin diseases, and cancerous tumors. One of the main components of honeybee venom is melittin, which now is being tested against some subtypes of breast cancer. (2)
TNBC (Triple Negative Breast Cancer) and HER2-positive subtypes of Breast Cancer
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 of 8 women in The United States will get diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. It’s estimated that there will be 276,480 new breast cancer cases this year. From that 10% to 20% will be TNBC (Triple Negative Breast Cancer) which is a more aggressive form of cancer and it has proven more problematic to treat. (3)
TNBC is known to strike more among young people, African Americans, Hispanics, and/or those with a BRCA1 (BReast CAncer 1) gene mutation. (4)
HER2-positive stands for Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2, this is a protein that promotes the growth of cancer cells. It is recommended that every breast cancer patient is tested for HER2, as this turns out to be more intrusive than other types of breast cancers. (5)
The Honeybee Vennon against Breast Cancer
Located in Perth, Australia the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research is one of the national leading research establishments that has been active since 1998. (6)
There Dr. Ciara Duffy and her colleagues extracted the venom and the melittin compound from 312 honeybees and bumblebees from Perth Western Australia, Ireland, and England. The honeybees from these regions are considered the healthiest from the 20,000 types of bees out there.
Then, they proceeded to test for anti-cancer properties to fight against different subtypes of breast cancer. This had never been investigated before. The results of this test were surprisingly good. The team was able to destroy 100% of the cancer cells. And with minimal effects on normal cells using a specific concentration of honeybee venom. In Dr. Duffy’s words: “The venom was extremely potent”. (6)
The research team noted that the melittin compound in honeybee venom eliminated breast cancer cell membranes in 60 min or less. Within 20 minutes, it reduced cancer cell growth and division by blocking the chemical messages among cancer cells. This was not the case for the venom extracted from the bumblebee, even in higher doses was not as effective as the venom of the honeybee.
These results are especially promising for breast cancer subtypes like TNBC and HER2-positive variations that are very difficult to treat.
Sweet Future
The promising results of this first trial using honeybee venom can provide direction. Perhaps even to point researchers towards developing and improving newer therapies. Employing natural products that are more available and cost-effective in many places around the world.
Going Forward
The fight is an ongoing one.
Researchers are trying a variety of new approaches like the one conducted by Dr. Duffy at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. Meantime, it is important to be aware of the risk factors. It’s essential to gather practical usable information and follow up regular check-ups for early detection.
For more information about breast cancer, you can go to https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-28--The Different Colors Of Emoji Hearts Actually Have Different Meanings

What do emoji hearts mean to you ?
We all know they portray love and we all love to use them .
But before we press send it ’ s important to know that emoji hearts have different meanings , dependent on which color we choose to use .
If you ’ d love to be more conversant in the language of love whilst texting , emailing and on social media , follow this short guide to winning some real , human hearts .
Orange heart : Reserved for support and warmth .
Somewhere in between red and yellow , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to flirt , but your fondness is strong ( 1 ) .
Yellow heart : Wanting your relationship to remain platonic ?
Sending yellow means friendship , best friend status , and your appreciation of such ( 1 ) .
Green heart : Ideal to send to someone who follows a plant-based diet or an environmentalist lifestyle , or for volunteers to show respect .
Can also portray jealousy of another ’ s relationship , lifestyle etc .
( 2 ) Blue heart : Denotes feelings of faithfulness , confidence , loyalty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ baby-boy celebrations , love of the ocean and water sports , and to show support for Autism .
( 2 ) Purple heart : On Mother ’ s Day or any day , purple is great for compassion between parents and children .
Can show love for anything wealthy , glamorous , or fashionista .
It can say thanks too for military sacrifice .
During difficult times it can be sent to sympathize .
( 2 , 3 ) Black heart : Want to call someone cruel or heartless ?
Used for darker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may have suffered a traumatic event , or even a saddened soul .
For dark humor also .
( 1 ) White heart : Pure love and crystal-clear kindness is the significance here .
Also a craving for white chocolate .
( 3 ) Brown heart : Sweet , calm , long-lasting love is expressed .
This time a penchant for brown chocolate .
( 3 ) Red heart : Last but not least red is classic and timeless .
Simply to confess love , passion , romance , and to secure friendship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you wish to further symbolize your sentiment you can enhance the correct vibe with these emoji hearts : ( 2 ) Exclamation heart- I really like you/ this , or I ’ m in agreement with you .
Double heart with swirl– An allegiance of love between two people .
Heart with diamonds- You are great , a diamond !
Heart with bow- I give you my heart , my forever love .
Have You Been Sending The Right Message ?
The actual impact the color and style of your emoji hearts may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is immense , so choose wisely , and remember never say I love you if you don ’ t really mean it !
It ’ s also imperative to note that on different social media platforms the colors have even further differences , so it ’ s good to familiarize yourself with each arena and the emoji heart etiquette used on each .
Have you been sending out the correct emotions with your emojis ?
With the above love , you can now .

What do emoji hearts mean to you? We all know they portray love and we all love to use them.
But before we press send it’s important to know that emoji hearts have different meanings, dependent on which color we choose to use.
If you’d love to be more conversant in the language of love whilst texting, emailing and on social media, follow this short guide to winning some real, human hearts.
What Do Colored Emoji Hearts Portray?
Orange heart: Reserved for support and warmth. Somewhere in between red and yellow, orange means you don’t want to flirt, but your fondness is strong (1).
Yellow heart: Wanting your relationship to remain platonic? Sending yellow means friendship, best friend status, and your appreciation of such (1).
Green heart: Ideal to send to someone who follows a plant-based diet or an environmentalist lifestyle, or for volunteers to show respect. Can also portray jealousy of another’s relationship, lifestyle etc. (2)
Blue heart: Denotes feelings of faithfulness, confidence, loyalty, and honor. Can be used for baby-boy celebrations, love of the ocean and water sports, and to show support for Autism. (2)
Purple heart: On Mother’s Day or any day, purple is great for compassion between parents and children. Can show love for anything wealthy, glamorous, or fashionista. It can say thanks too for military sacrifice. During difficult times it can be sent to sympathize. (2, 3)
Black heart: Want to call someone cruel or heartless? Used for darker emotions, or whilst supporting someone who may have suffered a traumatic event, or even a saddened soul. For dark humor also. (1)
White heart: Pure love and crystal-clear kindness is the significance here. Also a craving for white chocolate. (3)
Brown heart: Sweet, calm, long-lasting love is expressed. This time a penchant for brown chocolate. (3)
Red heart: Last but not least red is classic and timeless. Simply to confess love, passion, romance, and to secure friendship and bonding. (1)
Emoji Hearts With Symbolism.
If you wish to further symbolize your sentiment you can enhance the correct vibe with these emoji hearts: (2)
Broken heart- Shows sadness or suffering.
Exclamation heart- I really like you/ this, or I’m in agreement with you.
Double heart with swirl– An allegiance of love between two people.
Beating heart– I have strong feelings, a connection.
Growing heart- My feelings are growing deeper
Heart with diamonds- You are great, a diamond!
Heart with arrow- I’m hopelessly in love.
Heart with bow- I give you my heart, my forever love.
Have You Been Sending The Right Message?
The actual impact the color and style of your emoji hearts may have on the recipient’s emotions is immense, so choose wisely, and remember never say I love you if you don’t really mean it!
It’s also imperative to note that on different social media platforms the colors have even further differences, so it’s good to familiarize yourself with each arena and the emoji heart etiquette used on each.
Have you been sending out the correct emotions with your emojis?
With the above love, you can now.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-28--Stars Are Born! Two Adorable Toddlers With Down’s Syndrome Make Their TV Debut In A Heart-Warming Ad

Stars Are Born! Two Adorable Toddlers With Down’s Syndrome Make Their TV Debut In A Heart-Warming Advert For Baby Wipes

In high school , my mom took me and my siblings to her friend ’ s brother ’ s birthday party .
He was turning 35 .
“ A few years ago , ” she said .
“ It would have been impossible to imagine him living this long .
” Ten years later , this man is still alive and thriving , with an active social life ( pre-COVID ) , and a job he loves .
This was and is such an accomplishment because my mom ’ s friend ’ s brother has Down ’ s Syndrome .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ showcased two beautiful children with Down ’ s Syndrome in their new ad .
To understand why this is so important , we ’ ll give you some background .
Down ’ s Syndrome is a condition where a child is born with an extra chromosome .
People with Down ’ s Syndrome usually have a distinctive physical appearance and developmental and intellectual challenges .
Additionally , Down ’ s syndrome is linked to other health conditions .
( 1 ) • None 50 % of babies with Down ’ s are born @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• None Up to 75 % have hearing loss • None 12 % have intestinal blockages which need surgery after birth “ My understanding is that we have basically eradicated , almost , Down syndrome from our society , ” says Kari Stefansson , the founder of deCODE Genetics .
“ There is hardly ever a child with Down syndrome in Iceland anymore.
” The reason for that is prenatal screening tests–and abortion .
Over 99 % of women in Iceland choose to terminate a pregnancy where the child has Down ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s 98 % .
In the United States , it ’ s 67 % –although given the United States healthcare system and strong anti-choice movement , those numbers may not reflect a more enlightened attitude .
( 3 ) Given all the challenges children with Down ’ s Syndrome face–including just being born–this commercial by Pura baby wipes takes on an extra layer of wholesomeness .
The commercial features a number of babies with special needs .
The two children with Down ’ s Syndrome in the ad are Lenny and Willow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ old .
Zebedee Management represents them .
It is a company that specializes in representing individuals with disabilities .
‘ When Zebedee first launched , we were often asked what our aspirations were , and what bookings we would like to see for our models , ” says Laura Johnson , director of Zebedee Management .
“ I dreamed of seeing a baby with a disability featured on baby wipe or nappy advertising .
At the time , this seemed impossible .
But now our dreams have been realised.
” ( 4 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , explains why she contracted Lenny with a modeling agency when he was only a few months old .
‘ My main aim with Lenny modeling is to help change people ’ s perceptions of Down ’ s syndrome and show he is just like everyone else , ” she says .
“ It ’ s not something to be scared of.
” Johnson thinks Rooney–and Pura–has the right idea .
“ I feel that this sort of inclusive advertising will mean the world to [ parents of children with special needs ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accepted in the wider world and disability is not to be feared.
” ( 4 )

Content warning: abortion
In high school, my mom took me and my siblings to her friend’s brother’s birthday party. He was turning 35. “A few years ago,” she said. “It would have been impossible to imagine him living this long. ” Ten years later, this man is still alive and thriving, with an active social life (pre-COVID), and a job he loves. This was and is such an accomplishment because my mom’s friend’s brother has Down’s Syndrome.
Now, a baby wipes company has showcased two beautiful children with Down’s Syndrome in their new ad. To understand why this is so important, we’ll give you some background.
Down’s Syndrome
Down’s Syndrome is a condition where a child is born with an extra chromosome. People with Down’s Syndrome usually have a distinctive physical appearance and developmental and intellectual challenges. Additionally, Down’s syndrome is linked to other health conditions. (1)
Down’s Syndrome By The Numbers (2)
50% of babies with Down’s are born with a heart defect of some sort.
Up to 75% have hearing loss
50%-75% have sleep apnea
50%-70% have regular ear infections
50% have eye issues or diseases
10% have iron deficiency
12% have intestinal blockages which need surgery after birth
Babies And Down’s
“My understanding is that we have basically eradicated, almost, Down syndrome from our society,” says Kari Stefansson, the founder of deCODE Genetics. “There is hardly ever a child with Down syndrome in Iceland anymore.”
The reason for that is prenatal screening tests–and abortion. Over 99% of women in Iceland choose to terminate a pregnancy where the child has Down’s Syndrome. In Denmark, it’s 98%. In the United States, it’s 67%–although given the United States healthcare system and strong anti-choice movement, those numbers may not reflect a more enlightened attitude. (3)
Pura Baby Wipes
Given all the challenges children with Down’s Syndrome face–including just being born–this commercial by Pura baby wipes takes on an extra layer of wholesomeness.
The commercial features a number of babies with special needs.
The two children with Down’s Syndrome in the ad are Lenny and Willow, who are both about two years old. Zebedee Management represents them. It is a company that specializes in representing individuals with disabilities.
‘When Zebedee first launched, we were often asked what our aspirations were, and what bookings we would like to see for our models,” says Laura Johnson, director of Zebedee Management. “I dreamed of seeing a baby with a disability featured on baby wipe or nappy advertising. At the time, this seemed impossible. But now our dreams have been realised.” (4)
The Importance Of Inclusion
Lenny’s mother, Vikki Rooney, explains why she contracted Lenny with a modeling agency when he was only a few months old. ‘My main aim with Lenny modeling is to help change people’s perceptions of Down’s syndrome and show he is just like everyone else,” she says. “It’s not something to be scared of.”
Johnson thinks Rooney–and Pura–has the right idea. “I feel that this sort of inclusive advertising will mean the world to [parents of children with special needs]. It proves that their babies are accepted in the wider world and disability is not to be feared.” (4)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-28--World’s Richest One Percent Are Producing More Than Double the Carbon Emissions as the Bottom 50 Per

World’s Richest One Percent Are Producing More Than Double the Carbon Emissions as the Bottom 50 Percent

We know that greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere .
This makes the planet warmer , which has a negative effect on everything from seasonal weather patterns , to animal migration , from crop harvest to respiratory health .
It is clear that human activities are responsible for almost all of the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere over the last 150 years .
In fact , the EPA ’ s 1990-2018 Inventory Report states that the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States is from burning fossil fuels , with transportation making up most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – from gasoline and diesel fuel , and electricity was second with 26.9 % – for coal and gas .
( 1 ) A recent report by Oxfam and the Stockholm Environment Institute ( SEI ) adds a new layer to this conversation about our carbon footprint and who is responsible .
( 2 ) From 1990 to 2015 , a critical period in which annual emissions grew 60 % and cumulative emissions doubled .
( 2 ) • The richest 10 % of the world ’ s population ( c.630 million people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cumulative carbon emissions .
• The poorest 50 % ( c.3.1 billion people ) were responsible for just 7 % of cumulative emissions and used just 4 % of the available carbon budget .
• The richest 1 % ( c.63 million people ) alone were responsible for 15 % of cumulative emissions , and 9 % of the carbon budget – twice as much as the poorest half of the world ’ s population .
Over the past 20-30 years , the climate crisis has been fueled and our limited global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing the consumption of the already affluent , rather than lifting people out of poverty .
The two groups that suffer most from this injustice are those least responsible for the climate crisis .
The poorer and marginalized people already struggling with climate impacts today .
( 2 ) A Quarter Of U.S .
Carbon Emissions Are Produced By Households House size plays a huge role in determining its carbon footprint .
The bigger the house , the more it takes to power appliances and to heat and cool .
The simple fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smaller spaces .
They consume less energy , and as a result , leave a smaller carbon footprint .
The U.S. has the highest per capita emissions of any country .
The U.S. has also been dumping the largest amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere .
About a quarter of U.S. emissions are produced by households .
( 3 ) And the economic damages from climate change are projected to be large , with one 2017 study concluding the United States could lose 2.3 percent of its Gross Domestic Product for each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To put that into perspective , that would amount to more than $ 446 billion based on U.S .
Gross Domestic Product of $ 19.39 trillion in 2017 .
( 4 ) But there ’ s hope .
Wind and solar power industries are growing and their prices have dropped considerably .
( 5 ) And because of the 2015 Paris Agreement , many countries are working towards zero emissions for 2050 .
For those people in the top 1 % , to change their carbon footprint will require a re-assessment of priorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the global community , rather than self .
It is not an easy conversation , but a necessary one .

We know that greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere. This makes the planet warmer, which has a negative effect on everything from seasonal weather patterns, to animal migration, from crop harvest to respiratory health. It is clear that human activities are responsible for almost all of the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere over the last 150 years. In fact, the EPA’s 1990-2018 Inventory Report states that the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States is from burning fossil fuels, with transportation making up most of the carbon emissions at 28.2% – from gasoline and diesel fuel, and electricity was second with 26.9% – for coal and gas. (1)
A recent report by Oxfam and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) adds a new layer to this conversation about our carbon footprint and who is responsible. (2)
Confronting Carbon Inequality
From 1990 to 2015, a critical period in which annual emissions grew 60% and cumulative emissions doubled. (2)
The richest 10% of the world’s population (c.630 million people) were responsible for 52% of the cumulative carbon emissions.
The poorest 50% (c.3.1 billion people) were responsible for just 7% of cumulative emissions and used just 4% of the available carbon budget.
The richest 1% (c.63 million people) alone were responsible for 15% of cumulative emissions, and 9% of the carbon budget – twice as much as the poorest half of the world’s population.
Over the past 20-30 years, the climate crisis has been fueled and our limited global carbon budget squandered in the service of increasing the consumption of the already affluent, rather than lifting people out of poverty. The two groups that suffer most from this injustice are those least responsible for the climate crisis. The poorer and marginalized people already struggling with climate impacts today. (2)
A Quarter Of U.S. Carbon Emissions Are Produced By Households
House size plays a huge role in determining its carbon footprint. The bigger the house, the more it takes to power appliances and to heat and cool. The simple fact is that low-income people generally live in smaller spaces. They consume less energy, and as a result, leave a smaller carbon footprint.
The U.S. has the highest per capita emissions of any country. The U.S. has also been dumping the largest amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. About a quarter of U.S. emissions are produced by households. (3) And the economic damages from climate change are projected to be large, with one 2017 study concluding the United States could lose 2.3 percent of its Gross Domestic Product for each degree Celsius increase in global warming. To put that into perspective, that would amount to more than $446 billion based on U.S. Gross Domestic Product of $19.39 trillion in 2017. (4)
There Is A Solution
But there’s hope. Wind and solar power industries are growing and their prices have dropped considerably. (5) And because of the 2015 Paris Agreement, many countries are working towards zero emissions for 2050.
For those people in the top 1%, to change their carbon footprint will require a re-assessment of priorities. And a commitment to thinking about the global community, rather than self. It is not an easy conversation, but a necessary one.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-28--Germany To Ban The Sale Of Single-Use Plastics

Three cheers for Germany !
By July of the year 2021 , Germany has pledged to ban the sale of single-use plastics .
The list includes single-use plastic straws , cutlery , cotton swabs , and food containers .
This is a move that ’ s in line with a directive set forth by the EU , intended for everyone to do their part to reduce plastic waste .
As much as we would like for recycling to be the answer to Earth ’ s plastic problem , it simply isn ’ t .
And if any country is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 1 ) With their literal award-winning “ green dot ” recycling system , Germany has done everything they can to ensure that the plastics they produce do not end up in landfills but are instead recycled .
Dubbed the “ Recycling World Champion ” by World Economic Forum in 2017 , Germany has run up against the same issues that recycling programs the world over have seen .
In a word , it ’ s misuse .
The wrong types of plastic end up in the recycling bin , and sometimes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , up to 50 % of what ends up in bins designated for plastic , is actually just garbage .
Of course , all this waste needs to be separated from the plastics .
And then there is the matter of what types of plastics are in the bins .
Not all plastics are created equal .
Some are not recyclable at all , and some have to be broken down in specific ways .
To make matters worse , sorting machines can ’ t tell one type of plastic from another .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ just not sustainable .
We have tried .
It ’ s time to move on .
( 1 ) It ’ s not just time to move on , but it ’ s time to get serious .
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch , also known as the Pacific Trash Vortex , is where we can see real evidence of the damage we humans continue to do through our irresponsible behaviors .
This is a giant collection of floating trash… bits of plastic , old tires , boat hulls , marine nets , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thanks to the currents in the Pacific Ocean .
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is so huge that no one actually knows how big it is anymore , and it is so dense that larger debris can sink several meters down , creating something of an iceberg effect .
Researchers also believe the seafloor beneath the Garbage Patch may be a giant trash heap at this point too .
But they don ’ t have any way of verifying because all of these factors , make it nearly impossible .
In addition to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is so massive that it ’ s too big to troll .
( 2 ) Banning the sale of single-use plastics is a bold move , but it ’ s the right one .
It will no doubt involve individual changes in behavior , but that is precisely the point .
Though Germany is just one small country on the globe , they have contributed to the problem just as we all have .
By saying “ no more ” to that , they will be on the right side of the climate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planet .
Now , just imagine if every other country on this beautiful planet of ours got on board with that thinking ?
We have all had a hand in creating messes like that horrific garbage patch .
The only thing that is going to make it stop , is us stopping .

Three cheers for Germany! By July of the year 2021, Germany has pledged to ban the sale of single-use plastics. The list includes single-use plastic straws, cutlery, cotton swabs, and food containers. This is a move that’s in line with a directive set forth by the EU, intended for everyone to do their part to reduce plastic waste. As much as we would like for recycling to be the answer to Earth’s plastic problem, it simply isn’t. And if any country is a perfect case-in-point, that’s Germany. (1)
Recycling Single-Use Plastics Isn’t An Option
With their literal award-winning “green dot” recycling system, Germany has done everything they can to ensure that the plastics they produce do not end up in landfills but are instead recycled. Dubbed the “Recycling World Champion” by World Economic Forum in 2017, Germany has run up against the same issues that recycling programs the world over have seen. In a word, it’s misuse. The wrong types of plastic end up in the recycling bin, and sometimes plain old trash does. In Germany, up to 50% of what ends up in bins designated for plastic, is actually just garbage.
Of course, all this waste needs to be separated from the plastics. And then there is the matter of what types of plastics are in the bins. Not all plastics are created equal. Some are not recyclable at all, and some have to be broken down in specific ways. To make matters worse, sorting machines can’t tell one type of plastic from another.
The bottom line is that recycling is just not sustainable. We have tried. It’s time to move on. (1)
Reducing Our Consumption Of Single-Use Plastics
It’s not just time to move on, but it’s time to get serious. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, also known as the Pacific Trash Vortex, is where we can see real evidence of the damage we humans continue to do through our irresponsible behaviors. This is a giant collection of floating trash… bits of plastic, old tires, boat hulls, marine nets, whatever you can think of… swirled together thanks to the currents in the Pacific Ocean. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is so huge that no one actually knows how big it is anymore, and it is so dense that larger debris can sink several meters down, creating something of an iceberg effect. Researchers also believe the seafloor beneath the Garbage Patch may be a giant trash heap at this point too. But they don’t have any way of verifying because all of these factors, make it nearly impossible. In addition to that, the size of the area is so massive that it’s too big to troll. (2)
One Small Stand Against Single-Use Plastics
Banning the sale of single-use plastics is a bold move, but it’s the right one. It will no doubt involve individual changes in behavior, but that is precisely the point. Though Germany is just one small country on the globe, they have contributed to the problem just as we all have. By saying “no more” to that, they will be on the right side of the climate crisis, making changes that benefit the planet. Now, just imagine if every other country on this beautiful planet of ours got on board with that thinking? We have all had a hand in creating messes like that horrific garbage patch. The only thing that is going to make it stop, is us stopping.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-28--Father Wins Full Custody of His 9-Year-Old Daughter Who Sparked Standwithsophie Campaign

Whether you have children of your own or not , this story will break your heart .
Sophie was a healthy , happy child until her father began noticing a change in her behavior .
As a child of divorce , Sophie spends her days shuffled between her parents ’ homes .
It was obvious to her father , Michael , that something was very wrong when she began refusing to go back to her mother ’ s house .
Michael ’ s new wife had become equally concerned about Sophie ’ s unhappiness .
Consequently , in 2016 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigations , it was discovered that the mother ’ s boyfriend and his friends were sexually abusing Sophie .
Why didn ’ t her mother know Sophie was being abused ?
How could her mother , week after week , month after month , not see how scared and upset Sophie was becoming ?
Most mothers have a sixth sense about their children and their wellbeing .
Did she know but was in denial ?
Was she being threatened by the boyfriend ?
The continued court battles for custody cost Michael thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and became desperate to save Sophie so he started videoing her and the interactions between her mother and grandmother when they came to get her .
He said he didn ’ t want to do this to his daughter , but he wanted people to know exactly what Sophie was experiencing and that the court system was failing her .
When this video hit the internet , a # standwithsophie movement began to build awareness of Sophie ’ s painful situation .
As a result of this video , a GoFundMe campaign was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legal costs .
( 4 ) How , in our civilized society , can a child be left in a home where she is being sexually abused ?
How is it that the mother was continually awarded custody ?
It seems that the courts and child protective services utterly failed Sophie .
In addition , the waiting between court dates was excruciating for both Sophie and her father as he watched her continued anguish after visitations to her mother ’ s house .
Finally , in early September of 2020 , her father @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her two brothers for the few months until their final court date , when the right decision will hopefully be made .
Even so , the long-term effects of this abuse will affect Sophie and her brothers perhaps for the rest of their lives .
Child sexual abuse is far more prevalent than most people realize .
It is likely the most prevalent health problem children face with the most serious of consequences .
In the US alone , about one in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ never tell anyone .
( 1 ) Child Advocacy Centers ( CACs ) investigated 243,039 cases involving sexual abuse allegations in 2019 .
Sexual abuse may be much larger than federal statistics show due to under-reporting .
( 2 ) Stop It Now !
This organization has many resources including phone numbers by state for child protective services and other agencies .
If you suspect a child is being sexually abused , call one of these agencies to report and get guidance .
( 3 )

Whether you have children of your own or not, this story will break your heart. Sophie was a healthy, happy child until her father began noticing a change in her behavior.
The #standwithsophie Family
As a child of divorce, Sophie spends her days shuffled between her parents’ homes. It was obvious to her father, Michael, that something was very wrong when she began refusing to go back to her mother’s house.
Michael’s new wife had become equally concerned about Sophie’s unhappiness. Consequently, in 2016, they began full custody applications. During investigations, it was discovered that the mother’s boyfriend and his friends were sexually abusing Sophie.
Why didn’t her mother know Sophie was being abused? How could her mother, week after week, month after month, not see how scared and upset Sophie was becoming? Most mothers have a sixth sense about their children and their wellbeing. Did she know but was in denial? Was she being threatened by the boyfriend?
The continued court battles for custody cost Michael thousands of dollars. He ran out of money and became desperate to save Sophie so he started videoing her and the interactions between her mother and grandmother when they came to get her. He said he didn’t want to do this to his daughter, but he wanted people to know exactly what Sophie was experiencing and that the court system was failing her. When this video hit the internet, a #standwithsophie movement began to build awareness of Sophie’s painful situation. As a result of this video, a GoFundMe campaign was started to help Michael pay for his legal costs. (4)
The System
How, in our civilized society, can a child be left in a home where she is being sexually abused? How is it that the mother was continually awarded custody? It seems that the courts and child protective services utterly failed Sophie. In addition, the waiting between court dates was excruciating for both Sophie and her father as he watched her continued anguish after visitations to her mother’s house.
Finally, in early September of 2020, her father was awarded full custody of Sophie and her two brothers for the few months until their final court date, when the right decision will hopefully be made. Even so, the long-term effects of this abuse will affect Sophie and her brothers perhaps for the rest of their lives.
The Statistics
Child sexual abuse is far more prevalent than most people realize. It is likely the most prevalent health problem children face with the most serious of consequences. In the US alone, about one in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. 60% of child sexual abuse victims never tell anyone. (1)
Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) investigated 243,039 cases involving sexual abuse allegations in 2019. Sexual abuse may be much larger than federal statistics show due to under-reporting. (2)
Stop It Now! This organization has many resources including phone numbers by state for child protective services and other agencies. If you suspect a child is being sexually abused, call one of these agencies to report and get guidance. (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-29--New Dementia ‘Village’ Opens For 40 Patients At Northampton Mental Health Hospital

At first glance , it feels like something out of The Truman Show .
Caregivers working in shops and around every corner in a secure community facility .
But to a person with cognitive decline , transitioning to a dementia village offers independence and a better quality of life .
These centers offer freedom not previously afforded to those with progressive forms of dementia .
With the opening of a new village at St. Andrews Healthcare in Northampton , England , they are offering even more hope .
( 1 ) Dementia isn ’ t a disease , but a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and social abilities .
( 2 ) These symptoms often interfere and disrupt daily life , and are usually associated with older adults .
Alzheimer ’ s is the most common cause of progressive dementia .
It ’ s a degenerative disease that affects nearly 6 million Americans .
While it is progressive and degenerative , there are experts who feel that Alzheimer ’ s , and other progressive cognitive disorders , can be prevented , and potentially even reversed through an active lifestyle and care .
( 3 ) What kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for one , even just walking outdoors .
Good nutrition and activities that support cognitive function are helpful , too .
( 1 ) Reminiscence therapy for dementia shows that activities that remind patients of their youthful times can improve mood , cognition , and general behavioral function .
( 4 ) The new center at St. Andrews , called the Lowther dementia hub , is implementing all these innovative treatments to create an all-inclusive community rather than a hospital environment .
They monitor residents in non-intrusive ways such as faucets that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left on ( and then shut off automatically ) .
( 1 ) Referred to as a “ dementia village ” , this pioneering idea for a care facility was initiated in the Netherlands in 2009 with De Hogeweyk .
“ Hogeweyk ” translates to “ high ( as in esteemed ) village ” .
( 5 ) And they are indeed esteemed villages .
Most care facilities function on keeping a close eye on patients with cognitive disorders , which restricts their freedom considerably .
A dementia village allows residents to explore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ salons , grocery markets , and even a movie theater , at their leisure .
But healthcare professionals staff the village , monitoring and caring for residents as necessary .
Studies show that this extra autonomy improves the quality of life and that residents live longer than those in conventional homes .
( 5 ) Lowther dementia hub uses the model set by Hogeweyk .
They create a sense of self-sufficiency while providing state-of-the-art long-term care .
The hub hosts town amenities such as a post office and village hall for social activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can roam freely and visit with family .
( 3 ) The Idea of Dementia Village is Taking Off The new hub at St. Andrews is not the only other innovative facility designed to create autonomy among dementia patients .
In 2018 , the United States opened its first Glenner Town Square® in Chula Vista , California .
This day center focuses on Reminiscence Therapy , with an entire village themed after the 1950s .
Meanwhile , other regions are designing their own dementia villages .
Germany opened its version in 2014 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Langley , British Columbia , opened its doors in 2019 .
( 6 ) By the year 2050 , experts believe Alzheimer ’ s will affect as many as 13.8 million Americans .
One in ten adults over the age of sixty-five is diagnosed with this crippling cognitive disorder .
( 2 ) Therefore , having a life-sustaining option for our loved ones which promises to help them not just survive , but thrive , is vital for our physical and mental well-being .
A community creating a better quality-of-life for its residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can get behind .
And a trend I hope to see more of as time goes on .

At first glance, it feels like something out of The Truman Show. Caregivers working in shops and around every corner in a secure community facility. But to a person with cognitive decline, transitioning to a dementia village offers independence and a better quality of life. These centers offer freedom not previously afforded to those with progressive forms of dementia. With the opening of a new village at St. Andrews Healthcare in Northampton, England, they are offering even more hope. (1)
Hope for Dementia Patients
Dementia isn’t a disease, but a symptom that affects memory, thinking, and social abilities. (2) These symptoms often interfere and disrupt daily life, and are usually associated with older adults.
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of progressive dementia. It’s a degenerative disease that affects nearly 6 million Americans. While it is progressive and degenerative, there are experts who feel that Alzheimer’s, and other progressive cognitive disorders, can be prevented, and potentially even reversed through an active lifestyle and care. (3)
What kind of care can make a difference? Exercise, for one, even just walking outdoors. Good nutrition and activities that support cognitive function are helpful, too. (1) Reminiscence therapy for dementia shows that activities that remind patients of their youthful times can improve mood, cognition, and general behavioral function. (4)
The new center at St. Andrews, called the Lowther dementia hub, is implementing all these innovative treatments to create an all-inclusive community rather than a hospital environment. They monitor residents in non-intrusive ways such as faucets that register and record when they have been left on (and then shut off automatically). (1)
Esteemed Village
Referred to as a “dementia village”, this pioneering idea for a care facility was initiated in the Netherlands in 2009 with De Hogeweyk. “Hogeweyk” translates to “high (as in esteemed) village”. (5) And they are indeed esteemed villages. Most care facilities function on keeping a close eye on patients with cognitive disorders, which restricts their freedom considerably.
A dementia village allows residents to explore and move independently. They visit hair salons, grocery markets, and even a movie theater, at their leisure. But healthcare professionals staff the village, monitoring and caring for residents as necessary. Studies show that this extra autonomy improves the quality of life and that residents live longer than those in conventional homes. (5)
Lowther dementia hub uses the model set by Hogeweyk. They create a sense of self-sufficiency while providing state-of-the-art long-term care. The hub hosts town amenities such as a post office and village hall for social activities, and a village green where residents can roam freely and visit with family. (3)
The Idea of Dementia Village is Taking Off
The new hub at St. Andrews is not the only other innovative facility designed to create autonomy among dementia patients. In 2018, the United States opened its first Glenner Town Square® in Chula Vista, California. This day center focuses on Reminiscence Therapy, with an entire village themed after the 1950s. Meanwhile, other regions are designing their own dementia villages. Germany opened its version in 2014, and “The Village”, in Langley, British Columbia, opened its doors in 2019. (6)
By the year 2050, experts believe Alzheimer’s will affect as many as 13.8 million Americans. One in ten adults over the age of sixty-five is diagnosed with this crippling cognitive disorder. (2) Therefore, having a life-sustaining option for our loved ones which promises to help them not just survive, but thrive, is vital for our physical and mental well-being.
A community creating a better quality-of-life for its residents while caring for patients is definitely something we can get behind. And a trend I hope to see more of as time goes on.


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-29--E.P.A. Rejects Its Own Findings That a Pesticide Harms Children’s Brains

Since 2015 , under the President Obama administration , the Environmental Protection Agency ( E.PA . )
has overlooked scientific investigation that points out the necessity to ban a pesticide known as chlorpyrifos .
Yet the research is conclusive .
This pesticide causes serious damage to the cognitive capabilities of children at developing ages .
Around the world an estimated 3.2 million tons of pesticides are being used each year , putting over 2 million people at risk of pesticide pollution .
( 1 ) The use of pesticides is nothing new , they have been around since civilization came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 900 A.D .
The Chinese used arsenic sulfides to control garden insects .
Before 1900 only a few chemicals were used as pesticides .
Everything changed after DDT and the herbicide 2-4-D was developed at the beginning of World War II in the early 1940s .
After this , pesticides became an essential tool for farmers to control plagues in their crops .
It seems like a blessing that helped them to boost their productivity and reduce losses due to diseases .
It was only after that , that a major health concern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working in the fields but also for anyone who consumed their products .
( 2 ) If you are interested in finding more about the history of pesticides you can check the book : Pesticides , A Love Story : America ’ s Enduring Embrace of Dangerous Chemicals by Michelle Mart .
Who Is The E.P.A.
?
E.P.A .
also known as the United States Environmental Protection Agency was officially established on December 2nd , 1970 during President Richard Nixon ’ s administration .
E.P.A.
’ s mission is to protect humans and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that ensure that all Americans have clean air , land , and water .
( 3 ) What Is The Pesticide Chlorpyrifos ?
Chlorpyrifos is an insecticide… that is a type of pesticide that kills insects .
Think cockroaches , mosquitos , and many more annoying bugs you have no doubt dealt with at some point .
In 1965 chlorpyrifos was introduced for homes and farms by Dow Chemicals Co. Chlorpyrifos was able to get rid of all insects , so its use became popular in golf fields , homes , and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the world .
Different studies started to take place after 1970 that investigated the effects of the pesticide on humans and animals .
Research found out about the harmful effects of chlorpyrifos when it came in contact with your skin , inhaled it , or ate it .
But it was not until 2000 that this was banned from households .
Though it continued to be applied to crops in over 40,000 farms .
Chlorpyrifos comes from the organophosphate family .
It kills by attacking the nervous system , destroying chemical pathways @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 4 ) Various studies conducted by Columbia University , Stanford University , and the University of California at Berkeley had shown repeatedly that the pesticide Chlorpyrifos is neurotoxic and harms children ’ s brain by lowering IQ , damaging memory , delaying development , and reducing attention span .
There is also strong evidence that organophosphate pesticides such as chlorpyrifos damage the fetal brain when exposed during pregnancy .
This claim had been around since 2016 when E.P.A .
scientists themselves found out that chlorpyrifos poisons food and drinking water and recommended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this evidence that indicates that this organophosphate pesticide should be banned , the E.P.A.
’ s previous administrator Scott Pruitt refused to acknowledge the results given by his own research team .
The situation became only worse when the new E.P.A .
administrator Andrew Wheeler stated that chlorpyrifos would not be banned in 2019 .
He only continues to reaffirm his position , justifying it by indicating a lack of raw data .
Data that can not be provided , incidentally , due to confidentiality agreements .
( 5 ) After seeing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s solely concerned seems to be about the economical interest of chemical corporations instead of the wellbeing of children , supporting its decision by nullifying science research .
A question has arisen .
Is this the beginning of a politicized science ?

Back in 2015, under the President Obama administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (E.PA.) overlooked scientific investigation that points out the necessity to ban a pesticide known as chlorpyrifos. Yet the research was conclusive. This pesticide causes serious damage to the cognitive capabilities of children at developing ages.
After dozens of scientific studies and relentless pressure from NRDC and other public health, farmworker, and community advocacy groups, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finally banned chlorpyrifos, one of the most toxic and widely used pesticides on the market.
A Long History Of Pesticides
Around the world an estimated 3.2 million tons of pesticides are being used each year, putting over 2 million people at risk of pesticide pollution. (1)
The use of pesticides is nothing new, they have been around since civilization came into existence. Records show that by 900 A.D. The Chinese used arsenic sulfides to control garden insects. Before 1900 only a few chemicals were used as pesticides. Everything changed after DDT and the herbicide 2-4-D was developed at the beginning of World War II in the early 1940s.
After this, pesticides became an essential tool for farmers to control plagues in their crops. It seems like a blessing that helped them to boost their productivity and reduce losses due to diseases. It was only after that, that a major health concern was raised not only for the people working in the fields but also for anyone who consumed their products. (2)
If you are interested in finding more about the history of pesticides you can check the book: Pesticides, A Love Story: America’s Enduring Embrace of Dangerous Chemicals by Michelle Mart.
Who Is The E.P.A.?
E.P.A. also known as the United States Environmental Protection Agency was officially established on December 2nd, 1970 during President Richard Nixon’s administration. E.P.A.’s mission is to protect humans and the environment by developing and enforcing regulations that ensure that all Americans have clean air, land, and water. (3)
What Is The Pesticide Chlorpyrifos?
Chlorpyrifos is an insecticide… that is a type of pesticide that kills insects. Think cockroaches, mosquitos, and many more annoying bugs you have no doubt dealt with at some point. In 1965 chlorpyrifos was introduced for homes and farms by Dow Chemicals Co. Chlorpyrifos was able to get rid of all insects, so its use became popular in golf fields, homes, and other green areas. It was used all over the world.
Different studies started to take place after 1970 that investigated the effects of the pesticide on humans and animals. Research found out about the harmful effects of chlorpyrifos when it came in contact with your skin, inhaled it, or ate it.
But it was not until 2000 that this was banned from households. Though it continued to be applied to crops in over 40,000 farms.
Chlorpyrifos comes from the organophosphate family. It kills by attacking the nervous system, destroying chemical pathways, not allowing nerves to communicate. (4)
Research Studies
Various studies conducted by Columbia University, Stanford University, and the University of California at Berkeley had shown repeatedly that the pesticide Chlorpyrifos is neurotoxic and harms children’s brain by lowering IQ, damaging memory, delaying development, and reducing attention span.
There is also strong evidence that organophosphate pesticides such as chlorpyrifos damage the fetal brain when exposed during pregnancy.
This claim had been around since 2016 when E.P.A. scientists themselves found out that chlorpyrifos poisons food and drinking water and recommended it to be banned.
Despite all this evidence that indicates that this organophosphate pesticide should be banned, the E.P.A.’s previous administrator Scott Pruitt refused to acknowledge the results given by his own research team. The situation became only worse when the new E.P.A. administrator Andrew Wheeler stated that chlorpyrifos would not be banned in 2019. He only continues to reaffirm his position, justifying it by indicating a lack of raw data. Data that can not be provided, incidentally, due to confidentiality agreements. (5)
After seeing the repeated denial from E.P.A. that it’s solely concerned seems to be about the economical interest of chemical corporations instead of the wellbeing of children, supporting its decision by nullifying science research.
Finally Resolution
According to NRDC.com “After dozens of scientific studies and relentless pressure from NRDC and other public health, farmworker, and community advocacy groups, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finally banned chlorpyrifos, one of the most toxic and widely used pesticides on the market.
But the victory was short-lived. After Trump took office in 2017, his administration announced a 180-degree reversal—without new evidence—and halted the process. (The decision came after EPA administrator Scott Pruitt met with the CEO of chlorpyrifos manufacturer Dow Chemical, whose company also contributed $1 million to Trump’s inaugural activities.)
In the end, science—and an administration unwilling to ignore it—prevailed. In response to a lawsuit brought by NRDC and a coalition of labor and health groups represented by Earthjustice, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit found the Trump administration’s delays to be illegal and ruled in April that the EPA needed to follow through on the ban. After the ruling, more than 35,000 NRDC activists sent letters urging the agency to ban chlorpyrifos from our food once and for all. On August 18, the agency made it official.”


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-29--20 Incredible Health Benefits of Drinking Parsley Juice

If you ’ ve gone to a restaurant in the middle-to-high level of fanciness , you ’ ve probably had a meal garnished with a sprig of parsley .
If you ’ re like me , you ’ ve thrown it away .
However , you should be saving it for your juicer .
Parsley juice has all sorts of health benefits .
Here are twenty of them .
Cadmium is a metal that often ends up in foods such as “ shellfish , kidney , liver , mushrooms and root crops [ which ] contain especially high levels of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems , osteoporosis , and cancer .
A study of parsley juice ’ s effect on pregnant mice showed that a dose of “ 10 g/kg/day exhibited significant effects in neutralizing and reducing the deleterious changes due to Cd exposure during pregnancy on the behavioral activities , neurotransmitters , oxidative stress , and brain neurons morphology.
” ( 1 , 2 ) Amanda Capriglione is a registered dietician .
She says that parsley “ contains a chemical compound called apigenin that is known to help inhibit breast cancer cell growth.
” ( 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” says Capriglione , “ is enough to reach your daily dose of vitamin K. ” Vitamin K helps keep your bones strong .
( 3 ) “ Parsley acts as a natural breath freshener , especially after consuming garlic or onion , ” according to Amanda Capriglione .
( 3 ) According to a study in Food Research International , parsley has “ antioxidant activities in terms of β-carotene bleaching capacity and free radical scavenging activity.
” ( 4 ) According to Dr. Brunilda Nazari , parsley juice “ can help reduce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the joints.
” ( 3 ) “ It contains chemicals that cause muscle contraction in the intestine [ and ] bladder , ” says Dr. Nazari .
This makes it a great way to treat UTIs .
( 3 ) Dr. Nazari says that parsley “ is also an excellent source of flavonoids .
.
.
that help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases , including cancer , atherosclerosis , Alzheimer ’ s , and Parkinson ’ s disease.
” ( 3 ) 9 .
Parsley Can Be Used For High @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a potent diuretic–something that increases urinary production .
Diuretics reduce sodium in the blood and are often used to help with high blood pressure .
( 5 , 6 ) 10 .
Parsley Can Work Against Other Cancer-Causing Proteins Amanda Capriglione says that eating parsley with grilled foods “ minimize ( s ) the cancer-causing effects of heterocyclic amines .
.
.
[ which ] are made when proteins are cooked at high temperatures.
” ( 3 ) Capriglione says that parsley helps the body expel built-up gas , stopping bloat .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done on mice , show that ingesting parsley can stop some of the terrible effects of lead poisoning , and prevent lead buildup in the bones .
( 7 ) The collagen in parsley will “ iron out fine lines and wrinkles ” in the face , according to Amanda Capriglione .
( 3 ) Raw parsley is very high in the B vitamin folate , which is why blending it into a juice is the best way to get the best effect .
“ Folate is involved in maintaining normal levels of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important given that elevated levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases , ” says Carolina Guizar , a registered dietician nutritionist .
( 3 ) Because of its high Vitamin K , parsley is effective at helping your blood clot !
( 3 ) A study of parsley and desert date extracts on diabetic mice found that “ these extracts can be potentially used with insulin therapy to minimize its side effects and to improve the treatment of T1DM and probably other oxidative stress-associated diseases.
” ( 8 ) “ Parsley is a source @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carolina Guizar .
“ Adequate vitamin A intake ensures the optimal health of our eyes , preventing dryness , night blindness , and cataracts.
” ( 3 ) 18 .
Parsley Juice Can Help With Cramping Parsley has beneficial effects on the uterus .
As a result , “ menstrual cramps were often treated with concoctions of this herb , ” says Dr. Nazari .
( 3 ) Amanda Capriglione says that the beneficial compounds in parsley make it a great digestive aid .
( 3 ) According to MSN Lifestyle , parsley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aids the healthy gut microbiome , where the immune system is influenced most .
“ ( 9 )

If you’ve gone to a restaurant in the middle-to-high level of fanciness, you’ve probably had a meal garnished with a sprig of parsley. If you’re like me, you’ve thrown it away. However, you should be saving it for your juicer. Parsley juice has all sorts of health benefits. Here are twenty of them.
1. Parsley Protects Your Brain From Cadmium
Cadmium is a metal that often ends up in foods such as “shellfish, kidney, liver, mushrooms and root crops [which] contain especially high levels of cadmium.” Cadmium can lead to heart problems, osteoporosis, and cancer. A study of parsley juice’s effect on pregnant mice showed that a dose of “10 g/kg/day exhibited significant effects in neutralizing and reducing the deleterious changes due to Cd exposure during pregnancy on the behavioral activities, neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, and brain neurons morphology.” (1, 2)
2. Parsley Could Help Fight Breast Cancer
Amanda Capriglione is a registered dietician. She says that parsley “contains a chemical compound called apigenin that is known to help inhibit breast cancer cell growth.” (3)
3. Parsley Strengthens Bones
“Ten sprigs of parsley,” says Capriglione, “is enough to reach your daily dose of vitamin K.” Vitamin K helps keep your bones strong. (3)
4. Parsley Juice Will Kill Bad Breath
“Parsley acts as a natural breath freshener, especially after consuming garlic or onion,” according to Amanda Capriglione. (3)
5. Parsley Is An Antioxidant
According to a study in Food Research International, parsley has “antioxidant activities in terms of β-carotene bleaching capacity and free radical scavenging activity.” (4)
6. Parsley Helps Prevent Arthritis
According to Dr. Brunilda Nazari, parsley juice “can help reduce the risk of arthritis, an inflammation of the joints.” (3)
7. Parsley Juice Works For Bladder Health
“It contains chemicals that cause muscle contraction in the intestine [and] bladder,” says Dr. Nazari. This makes it a great way to treat UTIs. (3)
8. Parsley Combats Chronic Illness.
Dr. Nazari says that parsley “is also an excellent source of flavonoids . . . that help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, including cancer, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.” (3)
9. Parsley Can Be Used For High Blood Pressure
Studies show that parsley is a potent diuretic–something that increases urinary production. Diuretics reduce sodium in the blood and are often used to help with high blood pressure. (5, 6)
10. Parsley Can Work Against Other Cancer-Causing Proteins
Amanda Capriglione says that eating parsley with grilled foods “minimize(s) the cancer-causing effects of heterocyclic amines. . .[which] are made when proteins are cooked at high temperatures.” (3)
11. Parsley Juice Stops Bloating
Capriglione says that parsley helps the body expel built-up gas, stopping bloat. (3)
12. Parsley Stops Toxic Effects of Lead
Studies of Chinese parsley, done on mice, show that ingesting parsley can stop some of the terrible effects of lead poisoning, and prevent lead buildup in the bones. (7)
13. Parsley Juice Will Smooth Your Skin
The collagen in parsley will “iron out fine lines and wrinkles” in the face, according to Amanda Capriglione. (3)
14. Parsley Helps Your Heart
Raw parsley is very high in the B vitamin folate, which is why blending it into a juice is the best way to get the best effect. “Folate is involved in maintaining normal levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which is important given that elevated levels are associated with cardiovascular diseases,” says Carolina Guizar, a registered dietician nutritionist. (3)
15. Parsley Juice Helps Clotting
Because of its high Vitamin K, parsley is effective at helping your blood clot! (3)
16. Parsley Is A Good Supplement to Diabetic Medication
A study of parsley and desert date extracts on diabetic mice found that “these extracts can be potentially used with insulin therapy to minimize its side effects and to improve the treatment of T1DM and probably other oxidative stress-associated diseases.” (8)
17. Parsley Helps Your Eyes
“Parsley is a source of plant-based vitamin A,” says Carolina Guizar. “Adequate vitamin A intake ensures the optimal health of our eyes, preventing dryness, night blindness, and cataracts.” (3)
18. Parsley Juice Can Help With Cramping
Parsley has beneficial effects on the uterus. As a result, “menstrual cramps were often treated with concoctions of this herb,” says Dr. Nazari. (3)
19. Parsley Juice Helps Digestion
Amanda Capriglione says that the beneficial compounds in parsley make it a great digestive aid. (3)
20. Boosts Immune System
According to MSN Lifestyle, parsley “contains ample vitamin C, which aids the healthy gut microbiome, where the immune system is influenced most. “ (9)


healthyholisticliving--2020-09-29--Crows Are Capable Of Conscious Thought, Scientists Demonstrate For The First Time

Since the pandemic brought my kids home from university , we ’ ve enjoyed a wide range of conversations .
The other day , my son broached an interesting subject .
“ So apparently crows are capable of pondering life , ” he said .
I hate being a know-it-all kind of mom , but I nodded and said , “ Yes , I think I saw a documentary about that.
” “ No , this is new information , ” he said .
“ That ’ s why they just sit there alone in trees , or on fences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ somehow seems quite romantic to me .
Whenever I hear something emotional or intelligent about animals , it confirms my feelings we share more than just a planet .
Scientists in this case have proven crows are little black-feathered philosophers capable of conscious thought .
( 1 ) Crows are “ Corvids ” , part of the raven family of birds .
This seems even more poignant when you think of Edgar Allen Poe ’ s poem The Raven .
The insight into a man ’ s conversation with a bird seemed impossible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of birds are aware of their environments .
They can ponder their lives and are aware of the short-term passage of time .
This , scientists suggest allows them to generate subjective experiences .
( 1 ) The research conducted at the University of Tubingen in Germany looked at two carrion crows .
Each had electrodes monitoring their brain activity while they were shown about 20,000 light signals .
During dozens of sessions , the birds learned to acknowledge visual stimuli with nods .
( 1 ) But how does this show they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were inconsistent , it made it harder to confirm the light actually did shine .
Interestingly , this led to disagreements between the two crows showing they were capable of individual , subjective experiences .
( 1 ) “ Nerve cells that represent visual input without subjective components are expected to respond in the same way to a visual stimulus of constant intensity , ” says animal physiologist Andreas Nieder of the University of Tubingen .
“ Our results , however , conclusively show that nerve cells at higher processing levels of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subjective experience , or more precisely produce subjective experiences.
” ( 1 ) The discovery of the crows experienced primary , or sensory , consciousness is important .
Scientists believed this type of thought only exists in primates .
The findings bring a whole new meaning to the term bird brain .
Birds are not as dim-witted as once thought .
( 1 ) Primary consciousness means we are aware of ourselves and our individual knowledge .
However , it also means we can reflect on that knowledge .
We can apply our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in turn allows us to problem-solve and make decisions , something scientists already know crows can do .
It ’ s also what I learned in the documentary I watched .
( 1 ) So when you think of primary consciousness , it allows us to appreciate and interact with the world not only in the present but also with consideration and knowledge there is a past and future .
This ability was believed to only apply to mammalian brains with cerebral cortexes .
However , we now know avian brains have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 2 ) Meanwhile , scientists will further pursue the crow ’ s way of thinking : Are they aware they are aware ?
( 2 )

Since the pandemic brought my kids home from university, we’ve enjoyed a wide range of conversations. The other day, my son broached an interesting subject. “So apparently crows are capable of pondering life,” he said. I hate being a know-it-all kind of mom, but I nodded and said, “Yes, I think I saw a documentary about that.” “No, this is new information,” he said. “That’s why they just sit there alone in trees, or on fences. They’re thinking.” This somehow seems quite romantic to me. Whenever I hear something emotional or intelligent about animals, it confirms my feelings we share more than just a planet. Scientists in this case have proven crows are little black-feathered philosophers capable of conscious thought. (1)
Crows Of The Raven Family
Crows are “Corvids”, part of the raven family of birds. This seems even more poignant when you think of Edgar Allen Poe’s poem The Raven. The insight into a man’s conversation with a bird seemed impossible, yet new findings show this family of birds are aware of their environments. They can ponder their lives and are aware of the short-term passage of time. This, scientists suggest allows them to generate subjective experiences. (1)
German Study Of Crows
The research conducted at the University of Tubingen in Germany looked at two carrion crows. Each had electrodes monitoring their brain activity while they were shown about 20,000 light signals. During dozens of sessions, the birds learned to acknowledge visual stimuli with nods. (1)
But how does this show they are consciously thinking? Because the lights were inconsistent, it made it harder to confirm the light actually did shine. Interestingly, this led to disagreements between the two crows showing they were capable of individual, subjective experiences. (1)
Crows And Subjective Experiences
“Nerve cells that represent visual input without subjective components are expected to respond in the same way to a visual stimulus of constant intensity,” says animal physiologist Andreas Nieder of the University of Tubingen. “Our results, however, conclusively show that nerve cells at higher processing levels of the crow’s brain are influenced by subjective experience, or more precisely produce subjective experiences.” (1)
Crows And Primary Consciousness
The discovery of the crows experienced primary, or sensory, consciousness is important. Scientists believed this type of thought only exists in primates. The findings bring a whole new meaning to the term bird brain. Birds are not as dim-witted as once thought. (1)
Primary consciousness means we are aware of ourselves and our individual knowledge. However, it also means we can reflect on that knowledge. We can apply our reflections to our individual experiences. This in turn allows us to problem-solve and make decisions, something scientists already know crows can do. It’s also what I learned in the documentary I watched. (1)
Crows Appreciate Their Environment
So when you think of primary consciousness, it allows us to appreciate and interact with the world not only in the present but also with consideration and knowledge there is a past and future. This ability was believed to only apply to mammalian brains with cerebral cortexes. However, we now know avian brains have the same ability despite being smaller and smoother. (2)
Meanwhile, scientists will further pursue the crow’s way of thinking: Are they aware they are aware? (2)