healthyholisticliving--2020-07-20--Wriggling Roundworm Found in Woman’s Tonsil After She Ate Sashimi

It ’ s hard to find someone who doesn ’ t like sushi these days .
Sushi night with the girls , or on a date , has become a staple of culture .
But be careful where you eat .
Food poisoning is bad .
A worm in your tonsil is worse .
In Tokyo , Japan , a 25-year-old woman came into the St. Luke ’ s International Hospital with throat pain and irritation .
Although her blood tests were clear , a physical examination of the patient revealed something horrible .
Disgustingly , in the woman ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
After the hospital staff removed the worm , with tweezers , it turned out to be 1.5 inches ( 38mms ) long .
The medical journal , The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene , published an article about this case in the July 8th , 2020 issue .
According to the journal , once the worm was extracted , the patient felt a lot better .
Frankly , if a worm had been pulled out of me , I don ’ t know how good I would feel .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctors that five days before her hospital visit , she ’ d consumed some assorted sashimi .
The sashimi was the most likely culprit .
“ DNA PCR and the fact that the worm was in exuviation revealed , ” according to the journal , that “ this worm was a fourth-stage larva of Pseudoterranova azarasi.
” What does that mean ?
Well , “ Pseudoterranova is an uncommon nematode of the family Anisakidae .
Anisakis simplex , a major type of the family , is a white roundworm causing gastric , intestinal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These parasites usually infect raw fish , or fish that has not properly been cooked .
( 1 ) Am I In Danger Of Roundworm ?
That ’ s tough to say .
There have been 700 cases of Pseudoterranova , and those have only shown up in the Netherlands , South American and North Pacific countries , and Japan .
However , Anisakiasis , the related parasite , is on the upswing in Western countries .
In Portugal , a 32-year-old man came to the ER after a week of stomach pain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ count was up , signaling an infection .
However , it wasn ’ t an infection–at least not a conventional one .
His stomach was also tender , so the doctors performed an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy .
The procedure is not a surgery .
Instead , doctors insert a tube , with an attached light and camera , into the gastrointestinal tract .
Unfortunately–or fortunately , depending on how you look at it–they found something stuck in there .
A parasite had latched so firmly onto the wall of the intestine that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 , 3 ) Dr. Joana Carmo was one of the doctors who treated the man , and eventually wrote an article on the case .
She says that “ in European countries , fish infestation is probably more frequent than we thought .
One study showed , ” according to her , “ that anisakis simplex ( the species most commonly associated with human infections ) was found in 39.4 % of the fresh mackerel examined from different fish markets in Granada , Spain.
” According to CDC spokesperson , Amy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identified in the US.
” The CDC website warns that “ some people experience a tingling sensation after or while eating raw or undercooked fish or squid .
This is actually the worm moving in the mouth or throat.
” ( 3 )

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like sushi these days. Sushi night with the girls, or on a date, has become a staple of culture. But be careful where you eat. Food poisoning is bad. A worm in your tonsil is worse.
The Tonsil Roundworm
In Tokyo, Japan, a 25-year-old woman came into the St. Luke’s International Hospital with throat pain and irritation. Although her blood tests were clear, a physical examination of the patient revealed something horrible. Disgustingly, in the woman’s tonsil, was a black worm. After the hospital staff removed the worm, with tweezers, it turned out to be 1.5 inches (38mms) long. The medical journal, The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, published an article about this case in the July 8th, 2020 issue. According to the journal, once the worm was extracted, the patient felt a lot better. Frankly, if a worm had been pulled out of me, I don’t know how good I would feel. (1, 2)
The Sashimi Culprit
The woman told doctors that five days before her hospital visit, she’d consumed some assorted sashimi. The sashimi was the most likely culprit. “DNA PCR and the fact that the worm was in exuviation revealed,” according to the journal, that “this worm was a fourth-stage larva of Pseudoterranova azarasi.”
What does that mean? Well, “Pseudoterranova is an uncommon nematode of the family Anisakidae. Anisakis simplex, a major type of the family, is a white roundworm causing gastric, intestinal, ectopic, and allergic diseases.” These parasites usually infect raw fish, or fish that has not properly been cooked. (1)
Am I In Danger Of Roundworm?
That’s tough to say. There have been 700 cases of Pseudoterranova, and those have only shown up in the Netherlands, South American and North Pacific countries, and Japan. However, Anisakiasis, the related parasite, is on the upswing in Western countries. In Portugal, a 32-year-old man came to the ER after a week of stomach pain and vomiting. His white blood cell count was up, signaling an infection. However, it wasn’t an infection–at least not a conventional one. His stomach was also tender, so the doctors performed an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The procedure is not a surgery. Instead, doctors insert a tube, with an attached light and camera, into the gastrointestinal tract. Unfortunately–or fortunately, depending on how you look at it–they found something stuck in there. A parasite had latched so firmly onto the wall of the intestine that it pierced right through into the stomach. (1, 3)
More Roundworm Information
Dr. Joana Carmo was one of the doctors who treated the man, and eventually wrote an article on the case. She says that “in European countries, fish infestation is probably more frequent than we thought. One study showed,” according to her, “that anisakis simplex (the species most commonly associated with human infections) was found in 39.4% of the fresh mackerel examined from different fish markets in Granada, Spain.”
According to CDC spokesperson, Amy Rowland, “rare cases have been identified in the US.” The CDC website warns that “some people experience a tingling sensation after or while eating raw or undercooked fish or squid. This is actually the worm moving in the mouth or throat.” (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-20--Double Chocolate Espresso Cookies

Double Chocolate Espresso Cookies

Dear Reader : These are extraordinary times we ’ re living in , and while we always have a view toward health and wellness , sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different .
As our needs shift , self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren ’ t normally a part of your diet .
We believe that sometimes it ’ s OK to forego the usual self-care routine .
That ’ s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “ yummy but maybe not for every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Enjoy !
Coffee and chocolate come together perfectly in these delicious cookies !
But be warned : the finished product is heavy on the coffee flavor .
For this reason , it ’ s a good idea to stick with a light or medium roast .
The coffee is finely ground , then bloomed in warm browned butter , so it ’ s definitely a big part of the flavor profile of these yummy cookies .
Another way these cookies are unique , is in their density .
This is achieved by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them , midway through baking .
• None In a large mixing bowl , whisk the coffee and sugars together in a large mixing bowl .
• None Melt the butter in a light-bottomed saucepan .
Once the butter has fully melted , increase the heat to high .
• None Pay close attention as it boils , swirling and stirring occasionally .
Look for the bubbles to quickly turn into a foam .
There will be a change in sound too , as the crackling bubbles turn to foam .
The color @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brown , and the smell will become nutty like caramel .
Once all of this happens , quickly pour the browned butter into the sugar mixture .
Whisk to combine .
• None Add the eggs and vanilla to the butter mixture .
Whisk to combine .
• None In a medium bowl , whisk together the flour , cocoa powder , baking powder , baking soda , and salt .
• None Roughly chop 1 cup of chocolate chips .
Stir the chopped chocolate piece and the remaining whole chocolate chips into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour .
The longer the dough rests ( up to 12 hours ) , the better the texture and flavor turns out .
• None Preheat the oven to 350 F° .
Roll the dough into small balls ( 2 Tbsp ) and then roll in the raw sugar .
• None Bake on a parchment-lined tray for 10 minutes .
At the 10 minute mark , remove the cookie sheet from the oven and firmly bang it on the countertop a few times .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and collapse .
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt ( don ’ t skip this step ! )
and bake for an additional 4–5 minutes .
• None Let cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring the cookies a rack to cool completely .

Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we always have a view toward health and wellness, sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different. As our needs shift, self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the usual self-care routine. That’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!
Coffee and chocolate come together perfectly in these delicious cookies! But be warned: the finished product is heavy on the coffee flavor. For this reason, it’s a good idea to stick with a light or medium roast. The coffee is finely ground, then bloomed in warm browned butter, so it’s definitely a big part of the flavor profile of these yummy cookies.
Another way these cookies are unique, is in their density. This is achieved by literally banging the air bubbles out of them, midway through baking.
Intrigued? Let’s get to baking.
Ingredients:
3 Tbsp finely ground coffee
1 cup brown sugar
⅔ cup cane sugar
1 cup unsalted butter
2 eggs
2 egg yolks
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
2 ½ cups organic unbleached white all-purpose flour
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp kosher salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
¼ cup course turbinado (raw) sugar
Flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions:


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-20--Strawberry Pretzel Salad Is A Sweet Summertime Treat!

Dear Reader : These are extraordinary times we ’ re living in , and while we always have a view toward health and wellness , sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different .
As our needs shift , self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren ’ t normally a part of your diet .
We believe that sometimes it ’ s OK to forego the usual self-care routine .
That ’ s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “ yummy but maybe not for every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Enjoy !
Few flavor combinations are more lovely than the sweet and salty one .
There ’ s just something about it that hits all the right spots .
If you agree , then you ’ re in for a real treat with this yummy summertime “ salad ” .
Why is it called a salad ?
Honestly , I do not know the answer to this question .
There are no greens to be found on or in it .
This isn ’ t one of those sneaky dishes where you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kale .
It ’ s exactly what it sounds like : sweet and salty yumminess you ’ ll be craving all summer long .
Think layers of Jell-O , tangy strawberries , and sweetened cream cheese atop a salty , buttery pretzel crust .
But this salad is not just cool , creamy , and delicious .
It is also exceedingly easy to make , and the potential for modifications and add-ons is definitely there .
You could substitute a different type of fruit , or use a few different kinds .
Changing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great option too .
Try raspberry for a bit more tang !
The sky ’ s the limit with this wonderful sweet and salty canvas .
To make the crust : Preheat your oven to 400 degrees .
Combine the crushed pretzels , butter , and sugar in a medium bowl .
Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9″×13″ baking dish .
Bake this until set , for 8-10 minutes .
Let cool .
To make the cream cheese filling : With an electric hand mixer , whip together the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fold in the Cool Whip .
Spread the cream cheese filling on top of the pretzel crust .
It ’ s important to be sure to spread the filling all the way to the edges of the pan .
This creates a necessary barrier between the gelatin and the crust .
Place the pan in the refrigerator while you ’ re preparing the gelatin .
To make the gelatin : Boil water and in a medium pan and dissolve the gelatin in the water .
Pour in the strawberries and stir well to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few minutes before pouring it over the cream cheese layer .
Put the pan back in the refrigerator again , until the gelatin sets completely .
When ready to serve , slice into squares and enjoy !

Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we always have a view toward health and wellness, sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different. As our needs shift, self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the usual self-care routine. That’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!
Few flavor combinations are more lovely than the sweet and salty one. There’s just something about it that hits all the right spots. If you agree, then you’re in for a real treat with this yummy summertime “salad”.
Why is it called a salad? Honestly, I do not know the answer to this question. There are no greens to be found on or in it. This isn’t one of those sneaky dishes where you actually end up consuming 3 servings of kale. It’s exactly what it sounds like: sweet and salty yumminess you’ll be craving all summer long. Think layers of Jell-O, tangy strawberries, and sweetened cream cheese atop a salty, buttery pretzel crust.
But this salad is not just cool, creamy, and delicious. It is also exceedingly easy to make, and the potential for modifications and add-ons is definitely there. You could substitute a different type of fruit, or use a few different kinds. Changing the flavor of the gelatin is a great option too. Try raspberry for a bit more tang! The sky’s the limit with this wonderful sweet and salty canvas.
Ingredients:
Crust:
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 and 1/2 cups pretzels, finely crushed
3 tablespoons sugar
Cream cheese filling:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
8 oz. Cool Whip, thawed (or whipped cream)
Strawberry gelatin:
2 – 10 oz. bags of frozen or fresh strawberries, sliced
6 oz. strawberry gelatin
2 cups water, boiling
Directions:
To make the crust: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Combine the crushed pretzels, butter, and sugar in a medium bowl. Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9″×13″ baking dish. Bake this until set, for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.
To make the cream cheese filling: With an electric hand mixer, whip together the sugar and cream cheese. Then gently fold in the Cool Whip.
Spread the cream cheese filling on top of the pretzel crust. It’s important to be sure to spread the filling all the way to the edges of the pan. This creates a necessary barrier between the gelatin and the crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator while you’re preparing the gelatin.
To make the gelatin: Boil water and in a medium pan and dissolve the gelatin in the water. Pour in the strawberries and stir well to combine.
Let the gelatin sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the cream cheese layer. Put the pan back in the refrigerator again, until the gelatin sets completely.
When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy!


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-21--Hyper-aggressive Cannibal Rats Swim Up Toilets During Lockdown To Find Food

As COVID-19 continues to affect communities across the globe , one English city is dealing with an unusual pandemic effect : cannibal rats .
This follows suite as other densely-populated cities have experienced similar phenomena , with shuttered restaurants cutting off the rats ’ usual back-alley smorgasbord of scraps .
In addition to turning on each other , rats in Stoke-On-Trent are going to extreme lengths to get into houses to find food .
While lockdown restrictions in the UK have begun to ease , months without the usual food waste of busy eateries have altered the behavior of Stoke-On-Trent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ veteran Mike Flynn , the loss of garbage and waste that was once plentiful outdoors has forced the rodents to boldly go inside .
“ The rats are getting more brazen and desperate , ” Flynn told Stoke-On-Trent Live .
As the owner of Alpha Pest Control , he ’ s receiving his fair share of unusual calls .
One way the rats get into homes is by taking a swim through pipes , entering through toilets or other large drains .
“ If there is a break in the sewer system they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Flynn explains .
“ They will usually come in through the bathroom or kitchen.
” Many homes in Stoke-On-Trent date back to the 1950s and 1960s , allowing time for cracks in pipes to develop .
Rats can dig up to 2 feet per day , finding plenty of ways to get inside where they can find food .
Turning On Each Other As a result of limited resources , the rats in Stoke-On-Trent have also taken to cannibalism .
For example , Flynn recently checked on a rat he had caught in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stripped to bare bones , having been feasted on by another .
( 1 ) While it may be distasteful to humans , cannibalism in rats is a common occurrence .
Steve Belmain is a professor of ecology at the Natural Resources Institute in Kent .
He told The Guardian that cannibalism is often a matter of resources , especially in mother rats eating their offspring .
“ Mothers will eat their young in the hope of one day being able to reproduce again , ” Belmain notes .
“ If there ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of herself , she won ’ t kill herself looking after them.
” Since city-dwelling rats rely on restaurant refuse and trash from humans to survive , a change to their resources can easily lead to cannibalistic behavior .
( 2 ) In May , the CDC issued a warning regarding rodent populations .
While residents may notice more rat activity than normal , pest control experts should also be prepared .
Responding to “ unusual or aggressive rodent behavior ” will likely be the norm until restaurants resume usual operations .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s are seeing an increase in calls .
British pest control experts Rentokil saw an 80 % traffic increase to their website .
Additionally , the demand for toilet rat flaps–a spiked , one-way gate for pipes to stop rodent invasion–is very high .
( 1,2 ) As normal activity slowly begins to return to communities experiencing an increase in cannibal rats , these behaviors are likely to lessen .
Rats are extremely adaptable .
They ’ ll probably go back to normal much faster than we will .

As COVID-19 continues to affect communities across the globe, one English city is dealing with an unusual pandemic effect: cannibal rats. This follows suite as other densely-populated cities have experienced similar phenomena, with shuttered restaurants cutting off the rats’ usual back-alley smorgasbord of scraps. In addition to turning on each other, rats in Stoke-On-Trent are going to extreme lengths to get into houses to find food.
Cannibal Rats Take A Swim
While lockdown restrictions in the UK have begun to ease, months without the usual food waste of busy eateries have altered the behavior of Stoke-On-Trent rats. According to 40-year pest control veteran Mike Flynn, the loss of garbage and waste that was once plentiful outdoors has forced the rodents to boldly go inside. “The rats are getting more brazen and desperate,” Flynn told Stoke-On-Trent Live. As the owner of Alpha Pest Control, he’s receiving his fair share of unusual calls.
One way the rats get into homes is by taking a swim through pipes, entering through toilets or other large drains. “If there is a break in the sewer system they can get in your drains,” Flynn explains. “They will usually come in through the bathroom or kitchen.” Many homes in Stoke-On-Trent date back to the 1950s and 1960s, allowing time for cracks in pipes to develop. Rats can dig up to 2 feet per day, finding plenty of ways to get inside where they can find food.
Turning On Each Other
As a result of limited resources, the rats in Stoke-On-Trent have also taken to cannibalism. For example, Flynn recently checked on a rat he had caught in a trap earlier. The rat was stripped to bare bones, having been feasted on by another. (1)
While it may be distasteful to humans, cannibalism in rats is a common occurrence. Steve Belmain is a professor of ecology at the Natural Resources Institute in Kent. He told The Guardian that cannibalism is often a matter of resources, especially in mother rats eating their offspring. “Mothers will eat their young in the hope of one day being able to reproduce again,” Belmain notes. “If there’s not enough food to take care of herself, she won’t kill herself looking after them.” Since city-dwelling rats rely on restaurant refuse and trash from humans to survive, a change to their resources can easily lead to cannibalistic behavior. (2)
More Work For Pest Control Companies
In May, the CDC issued a warning regarding rodent populations. While residents may notice more rat activity than normal, pest control experts should also be prepared. Responding to “unusual or aggressive rodent behavior” will likely be the norm until restaurants resume usual operations. (3)
Pest control companies like Flynn’s are seeing an increase in calls. British pest control experts Rentokil saw an 80% traffic increase to their website. Additionally, the demand for toilet rat flaps–a spiked, one-way gate for pipes to stop rodent invasion–is very high. (1,2)
As normal activity slowly begins to return to communities experiencing an increase in cannibal rats, these behaviors are likely to lessen. Rats are extremely adaptable. They’ll probably go back to normal much faster than we will.


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-21--Super-Rich Call For Higher Taxes On Wealthy To Pay For COVID-19 Recovery

Super-Rich Want to Be Taxed for COVID-19 Recovery Some of the wealthiest people on earth have signed an open letter asking their governments to raise taxes on the super-rich .
The driving force behind this letter is a desire to help fund COVID-19 recovery .
( 1 ) The group of 83 includes Abigail Disney and her brother Ben , the heirs to the Disney fortune , as well as Ben and Jerry ’ s co-founder Jerry Greenfield .
Richard Curtis , the British screenwriter and director , is also part of the group .
( 1 , 2 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ millionairesforhumanity.com .
They make the aim of the letter clear with the statement , “ Today , we , the undersigned millionaires , ask our governments to raise taxes on people like us .
Immediately .
Substantially .
Permanently.
” ( 1 ) To be considered “ ultra-wealthy ” , a person must have a fortune of more than $ 30 million .
There are 500,000 individuals worldwide with this status .
That ’ s more than the populations of Belize , Iceland , or Malta .
( 2 ) The 83 super-wealthy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from North America , Europe , or New Zealand .
They believe that their wealth gives them an important part to play in COVID-19 recovery .
They wrote , “ As Covid-19 strikes the world , millionaires like us have a critical role to play in healing our world .
No , we are not the ones caring for the sick in intensive care wards .
We are not driving the ambulances that will bring the ill to hospitals .
We are not restocking grocery store shelves or delivering food door to door.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , “ But we do have money , lots of it .
Money that is desperately needed now and will continue to be needed in the years ahead , as our world recovers from this crisis.
” ( 1 ) Referring to data from the UN , the millionaires warn that the COVID-19 crisis could push half a billion more people into poverty .
They also refer to the systemic inadequacies that have been revealed by COVID-19 , including the lack of resources in the healthcare system and in education .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ willing to fund COVID-19 recovery , they realize that the responsibility of equitably allocating funds still lies with governments .
They write , “ The problems caused by , and revealed by , Covid-19 can ’ t be solved with charity , no matter how generous .
Government leaders must take the responsibility for raising the funds we need and spending them fairly.
” ( 1 ) And they don ’ t want the tax increase to be a one-time thing .
In fact , the group of millionaires is asking for it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure we adequately fund our health systems , schools , and security through a permanent tax increase on the wealthiest people on the planet , people like us.
” ( 1 ) While the millionaires acknowledge that they are some of the least likely to fall victim to COVID-19 , they profess that what affects one affects all .
“ Our interconnectedness has never been more clear , ” they write .
“ We must rebalance our world before it is too late .
There will not be another chance to get this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finish their letter with this plea , “ So please .
Tax us .
Tax us .
Tax us .
It is the right choice .
It is the only choice .
Humanity is more important than our money.
” ( 1 )

Super-Rich Want to Be Taxed for COVID-19 Recovery
Some of the wealthiest people on earth have signed an open letter asking their governments to raise taxes on the super-rich. The driving force behind this letter is a desire to help fund COVID-19 recovery. (1)
The group of 83 includes Abigail Disney and her brother Ben, the heirs to the Disney fortune, as well as Ben and Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield. Richard Curtis, the British screenwriter and director, is also part of the group. (1, 2)
They posted their letter on the website millionairesforhumanity.com. They make the aim of the letter clear with the statement, “Today, we, the undersigned millionaires, ask our governments to raise taxes on people like us. Immediately. Substantially. Permanently.” (1)
To be considered “ultra-wealthy”, a person must have a fortune of more than $30 million. There are 500,000 individuals worldwide with this status. That’s more than the populations of Belize, Iceland, or Malta. (2)
The 83 super-wealthy people who signed the letter are all from North America, Europe, or New Zealand. They believe that their wealth gives them an important part to play in COVID-19 recovery. They wrote, “As Covid-19 strikes the world, millionaires like us have a critical role to play in healing our world. No, we are not the ones caring for the sick in intensive care wards. We are not driving the ambulances that will bring the ill to hospitals. We are not restocking grocery store shelves or delivering food door to door.” (1)
The letter continues, “But we do have money, lots of it. Money that is desperately needed now and will continue to be needed in the years ahead, as our world recovers from this crisis.” (1)
Funds for Inadequate Systems
Referring to data from the UN, the millionaires warn that the COVID-19 crisis could push half a billion more people into poverty. They also refer to the systemic inadequacies that have been revealed by COVID-19, including the lack of resources in the healthcare system and in education. (1, 3)
While the millionaires are willing to fund COVID-19 recovery, they realize that the responsibility of equitably allocating funds still lies with governments. They write, “The problems caused by, and revealed by, Covid-19 can’t be solved with charity, no matter how generous. Government leaders must take the responsibility for raising the funds we need and spending them fairly.” (1)
And they don’t want the tax increase to be a one-time thing. In fact, the group of millionaires is asking for it to become permanent. “We can ensure we adequately fund our health systems, schools, and security through a permanent tax increase on the wealthiest people on the planet, people like us.” (1)
Global Interconnectedness
While the millionaires acknowledge that they are some of the least likely to fall victim to COVID-19, they profess that what affects one affects all. “Our interconnectedness has never been more clear,” they write. “We must rebalance our world before it is too late. There will not be another chance to get this right.” (1)
The millionaires finish their letter with this plea, “So please. Tax us. Tax us. Tax us. It is the right choice. It is the only choice. Humanity is more important than our money.” (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-21--Scientists: Blood Iron Levels Strongly Correlated With Long Lifespan

How and why we age is one of the most hotly-debated hottest topics ever .
It seems there is an endless number of studies and anecdotes offering shortcuts here and there to the fountain of youth… or reasons you have not arrived yet .
Now there is a bit more research , this time suggesting that iron levels have much to do with aging .
( 1 ) It ’ s remarkable how much information we have about our bodies , and yet how little we know .
The question of how and why we age is a grand and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as we grasp one aspect of it , a new understanding comes in to cancel out a previous one .
There is so much to know , that it ’ s like we ’ re always just scratching the surface .
The human body is so strategically and wonderfully engineered that it can feel like we have no idea what ’ s going on .
But every piece of the puzzle adds a new dimension to our understanding .
Every new conclusion leads to more questions , yes .
But they often lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ways of not just extending our lifespan , but really making those extra years count .
Making them strong , healthy , quality years .
Exciting research published in Nature Communications in July of 2020 , suggests that keeping one ’ s blood iron levels in check is a major factor in aging gracefully and living longer .
The research finds that high levels of iron in the blood may contribute to a reduction in overall healthy years we experience .
You may have already noticed that for a long time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lower red meat consumption .
This research could shed some light on why it is that diets that are high in red meat consumption impact heart health like they do .
In the study , the research scientists from Edinburgh University and the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing in Germany looked at ten regions of the human genome that are linked to a longer lifespan .
They found commonalities in those gene sets that are linked to the metabolism of iron in the blood .
What they found was that these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longevity .
This suggests a strong tie between iron levels and a long healthy life .
( 2 ) Dr. Paul Timmers from the Usher Institute at Edinburgh had this to say : “ We are very excited by these findings as they strongly suggest that high levels of iron in the blood reduces our healthy years of life and keeping these levels in check could prevent age-related damage .
We speculate that our findings on iron metabolism might also start to explain why very high levels of iron-rich red meat in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as heart disease.
” ( 1 ) Blood iron levels are directly affected by diet , so it ’ s great that we all have some measure of control here .
Abnormally high or low levels of iron have been linked not just to heart disease , but to a number of other age-related diseases like Parkinson ’ s .
The researchers note that the development of a drug to help stabilize blood iron levels is a logical next step .
A lot more research is necessary , of course .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ puzzle , like a sign at a trailhead toward that fountain of youth .
A guide to follow , while we continue learning more .

How and why we age is one of the most hotly-debated hottest topics ever. It seems there is an endless number of studies and anecdotes offering shortcuts here and there to the fountain of youth… or reasons you have not arrived yet. Now there is a bit more research, this time suggesting that iron levels have much to do with aging. (1)
It’s remarkable how much information we have about our bodies, and yet how little we know. The question of how and why we age is a grand and complex mystery. It seems that just as we grasp one aspect of it, a new understanding comes in to cancel out a previous one. There is so much to know, that it’s like we’re always just scratching the surface. The human body is so strategically and wonderfully engineered that it can feel like we have no idea what’s going on. But every piece of the puzzle adds a new dimension to our understanding. Every new conclusion leads to more questions, yes. But they often lead to new ways of living better too. Ways of not just extending our lifespan, but really making those extra years count. Making them strong, healthy, quality years.
Blood Iron Levels Are Key To Aging Gracefully
Exciting research published in Nature Communications in July of 2020, suggests that keeping one’s blood iron levels in check is a major factor in aging gracefully and living longer. The research finds that high levels of iron in the blood may contribute to a reduction in overall healthy years we experience.
You may have already noticed that for a long time, dieticians have been singing the virtues of lower red meat consumption. This research could shed some light on why it is that diets that are high in red meat consumption impact heart health like they do.
In the study, the research scientists from Edinburgh University and the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing in Germany looked at ten regions of the human genome that are linked to a longer lifespan. They found commonalities in those gene sets that are linked to the metabolism of iron in the blood. What they found was that these gene sets are also responsible for our longevity. This suggests a strong tie between iron levels and a long healthy life. (2)
Looking For Longevity? Lower Iron Levels
Dr. Paul Timmers from the Usher Institute at Edinburgh had this to say: “We are very excited by these findings as they strongly suggest that high levels of iron in the blood reduces our healthy years of life and keeping these levels in check could prevent age-related damage. We speculate that our findings on iron metabolism might also start to explain why very high levels of iron-rich red meat in the diet has been linked to age-related conditions such as heart disease.” (1)
Blood iron levels are directly affected by diet, so it’s great that we all have some measure of control here. Abnormally high or low levels of iron have been linked not just to heart disease, but to a number of other age-related diseases like Parkinson’s.
The researchers note that the development of a drug to help stabilize blood iron levels is a logical next step. A lot more research is necessary, of course. But this is an important piece of the puzzle, like a sign at a trailhead toward that fountain of youth. A guide to follow, while we continue learning more.


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-22--The Glue That Holds Our Roads Together Could Become Toxic When Exposed to Sun And Rain

We often drive over roads and highways without thinking much about the smooth , black surface beneath us–at least not until we hit a pothole or rough patch .
These crumbled , gritty spots of asphalt are caused by the erosion of asphalt binder .
It turns out that this cementing material is a toxic glue that could be leaching into our water supply .
While the results aren ’ t promising for the planet , they could encourage engineers to look for new and healthier pavement options .
( 1 ) A study conducted by researchers from Florida State @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of asphalt binder .
Ryan Rodgers is the director of the Future Fuels Institute at the MagLab , or National High Magnetic Field Laboratory .
Since his career began , Rodgers has been studying the chemistry of petroleum and its effects on the world around it .
While he and his team have published studies on the behavior of petroleum molecules , asphalt binder was the missing link in a well-examined chain .
“ You see the brand new asphalt roads go down and they ’ re smooth as silk on top , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fields magazine .
“ And then you look at one that ’ s 5 years , 10 years old , and you can see the [ stone ] aggregate .
And you ’ re like , ‘ Where the hell did all the cement go ? '
” To understand how asphalt ’ s toxic glue behaved , the research team needed to examine the molecular structure of this material .
( 2 ) While an asphalt road includes crushed stones , sand , and gravel , the binder is what keeps it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ product of petroleum , crude oil that ’ s carbon-rich and took millennia to form between earth ’ s mantle below and massive rock and sediment above .
After it ’ s pulled from reservoirs deep beneath the earth , petroleum is refined and distilled for a variety of uses .
Asphalt binder is a by-product of this distillation process , a sticky black substance keeping the roads together .
( 3 ) Rodgers , already aware that soil and runoff neared asphalt roads contained carcinogenic substances , wanted to see how asphalt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Submerging a sample of the toxic glue in water , the team shined artificial sunlight over the glass slide .
With a control sample kept in the dark , the results were what the researchers had theorized .
Because of a process called photooxidation , the sunlight-bathed asphalt binder leached 25 times the amount of water-soluble organic compounds .
Additionally , the compounds detected derive from petroleum and are generally considered toxic .
( 1 ) Because the compounds were highly concentrated after sunlight exposure , the experiment proves that sunlight affects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easily translatable to paved roads , which bake in the sun and bathe in the rain day-in and day-out .
“ There are tens of thousands of elemental compositions , ” Rodgers notes regarding the leached compounds .
“ Each one of those can have [ hundreds of thousands of ] different structures .
So you ’ re just puking ungodly amounts of material that is And it ’ s water-soluble , and it has every structure that you can possibly think of .
So the idea that one of them is bad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While the results may seem bleak , more research needs to be done by the team to determine the asphalt binder ’ s level of toxicity .
The team hopes that their findings will provide the science to other researchers , industry leaders , and policymakers to identify and deal with toxic materials , however widely used .
With 8.5 million miles of road in the United States alone , the results of this study will have resounding impacts across the globe .
( 2 )

We often drive over roads and highways without thinking much about the smooth, black surface beneath us–at least not until we hit a pothole or rough patch. These crumbled, gritty spots of asphalt are caused by the erosion of asphalt binder. It turns out that this cementing material is a toxic glue that could be leaching into our water supply. While the results aren’t promising for the planet, they could encourage engineers to look for new and healthier pavement options. (1)
Could Asphalt Glue Be Toxic?
A study conducted by researchers from Florida State University aimed to examine the chemical behavior of asphalt binder. Ryan Rodgers is the director of the Future Fuels Institute at the MagLab, or National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. Since his career began, Rodgers has been studying the chemistry of petroleum and its effects on the world around it. While he and his team have published studies on the behavior of petroleum molecules, asphalt binder was the missing link in a well-examined chain.
“You see the brand new asphalt roads go down and they’re smooth as silk on top,” Rodgers told the MagLab’s fields magazine. “And then you look at one that’s 5 years, 10 years old, and you can see the [stone] aggregate. And you’re like, ‘Where the hell did all the cement go?'” To understand how asphalt’s toxic glue behaved, the research team needed to examine the molecular structure of this material. (2)
While an asphalt road includes crushed stones, sand, and gravel, the binder is what keeps it all together. Asphalt binder is a product of petroleum, crude oil that’s carbon-rich and took millennia to form between earth’s mantle below and massive rock and sediment above. After it’s pulled from reservoirs deep beneath the earth, petroleum is refined and distilled for a variety of uses. Asphalt binder is a by-product of this distillation process, a sticky black substance keeping the roads together. (3)
The Experiment Yields Results
Rodgers, already aware that soil and runoff neared asphalt roads contained carcinogenic substances, wanted to see how asphalt binder would react to water and light. Submerging a sample of the toxic glue in water, the team shined artificial sunlight over the glass slide. With a control sample kept in the dark, the results were what the researchers had theorized. Because of a process called photooxidation, the sunlight-bathed asphalt binder leached 25 times the amount of water-soluble organic compounds. Additionally, the compounds detected derive from petroleum and are generally considered toxic. (1)
Because the compounds were highly concentrated after sunlight exposure, the experiment proves that sunlight affects the asphalt binder molecules. This is easily translatable to paved roads, which bake in the sun and bathe in the rain day-in and day-out. “There are tens of thousands of elemental compositions,” Rodgers notes regarding the leached compounds. “Each one of those can have [hundreds of thousands of] different structures. So you’re just puking ungodly amounts of material that is And it’s water-soluble, and it has every structure that you can possibly think of. So the idea that one of them is bad for you is probably pretty good.”
While the results may seem bleak, more research needs to be done by the team to determine the asphalt binder’s level of toxicity. The team hopes that their findings will provide the science to other researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to identify and deal with toxic materials, however widely used. With 8.5 million miles of road in the United States alone, the results of this study will have resounding impacts across the globe. (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-22--Backyard Birding, Tips To Attract Birds To Your Nest

With many people spending so much time at home during the coronavirus pandemic , you may be noticing the birds that visit your backyard more than usual .
While cardinals and robins are common in my neighborhood , I ’ ve recently noticed hawks and woodpeckers near my home for the first time .
If , like me , you ’ ve found yourself unintentionally taking up backyard birding and find it enjoyable , here are some tips to attract more birds to your yard .
1 .
Learn the Birds in Your Area Depending on where you live , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of birds come through your backyard .
Do some research on the birds that are common to your area so you can start keeping an eye out for them .
This information will also help you figure out what plants , food , and birdhouses would be best to install in your backyard .
( 1 ) Additionally , you may want to research which bird species migrate through your area and when .
This will add some variety to your daily birdwatching and help you spot birds you may not have noticed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ native plants in your yard , you ’ ll not only attract more birds to it but you ’ ll also provide them with food sources as they ’ re challenged by climate change .
The National Audubon Society recommends focusing on plants that will provide the food categories of bugs , nuts and seeds , fruit , and nectar .
If you ’ re not sure what plants are native to your area , the NAS has you covered !
Their native plants database will help you figure out what to grow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 2 , 3 ) Many of the things you can do to attract birds to your yard involves just leaving things alone .
For instance , not raking in the fall is actually good for our feathered friends !
Fallen leaves and debris work as a natural mulch , preventing weeds from growing .
They also provide a place for insects and moth caterpillar pupae to live and grow .
One pair of chickadee parents requires between 6,000 and 9,000 caterpillars to feed their babies every spring , so leave your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 , 2 ) You can also forget about deadheading flowers .
Leftover seed heads provide food for birds throughout the fall and winter .
( 2 ) If you live in an apartment or in a home without a yard , you can still birdwatch from your balcony or window !
Grab a pair of binoculars and wait for one of the many birds that inhabit urban areas to fly past your lenses .
If you want to attract birds to your home , suction cup a feeder to your window @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bird activity happens in the morning , so if you want the best chance of observing them , set an alarm .
While birds tend to be the noisiest and most active in the early hours , putting feeders in your backyard will ensure visits from birds throughout the day .
( 1 ) If you have kiddos in the house , involve them in your backyard birding endeavors , too !
Children will enjoy looking through binoculars for their favorite species .
And they can keep a birding notebook to draw birds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
They may even alert you to new birds that visit your yard .
( 4 ) Hopefully , you ’ re feeling ready to take on backyard birding .
While it may be a hobby that you ’ ve stumbled on because of the pandemic , I ’ m sure it ’ s one that you ’ ll appreciate for long after !

Backyard Birding Tips
With many people spending so much time at home during the coronavirus pandemic, you may be noticing the birds that visit your backyard more than usual. While cardinals and robins are common in my neighborhood, I’ve recently noticed hawks and woodpeckers near my home for the first time. If, like me, you’ve found yourself unintentionally taking up backyard birding and find it enjoyable, here are some tips to attract more birds to your yard.
1. Learn the Birds in Your Area
Depending on where you live, you could see more than 200 species of birds come through your backyard. Do some research on the birds that are common to your area so you can start keeping an eye out for them. This information will also help you figure out what plants, food, and birdhouses would be best to install in your backyard. (1)
Additionally, you may want to research which bird species migrate through your area and when. This will add some variety to your daily birdwatching and help you spot birds you may not have noticed otherwise. (1)
2. Grow Native Plants
By growing native plants in your yard, you’ll not only attract more birds to it but you’ll also provide them with food sources as they’re challenged by climate change. The National Audubon Society recommends focusing on plants that will provide the food categories of bugs, nuts and seeds, fruit, and nectar. If you’re not sure what plants are native to your area, the NAS has you covered! Their native plants database will help you figure out what to grow to support and attract your local birds. (2, 3)
3. Let Things Be
Many of the things you can do to attract birds to your yard involves just leaving things alone. For instance, not raking in the fall is actually good for our feathered friends! Fallen leaves and debris work as a natural mulch, preventing weeds from growing. They also provide a place for insects and moth caterpillar pupae to live and grow. One pair of chickadee parents requires between 6,000 and 9,000 caterpillars to feed their babies every spring, so leave your rake in the shed this fall! (1, 2)
You can also forget about deadheading flowers. Leftover seed heads provide food for birds throughout the fall and winter. (2)
4. No Backyard? No Problem!
If you live in an apartment or in a home without a yard, you can still birdwatch from your balcony or window! Grab a pair of binoculars and wait for one of the many birds that inhabit urban areas to fly past your lenses. If you want to attract birds to your home, suction cup a feeder to your window. (1)
5. Be an Early Bird
The majority of bird activity happens in the morning, so if you want the best chance of observing them, set an alarm. While birds tend to be the noisiest and most active in the early hours, putting feeders in your backyard will ensure visits from birds throughout the day. (1)
6. Involve the Kids in Birding
If you have kiddos in the house, involve them in your backyard birding endeavors, too! Children will enjoy looking through binoculars for their favorite species. And they can keep a birding notebook to draw birds and write down observations they make about them. They may even alert you to new birds that visit your yard. (4)
Hopefully, you’re feeling ready to take on backyard birding. While it may be a hobby that you’ve stumbled on because of the pandemic, I’m sure it’s one that you’ll appreciate for long after!


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-22--Turmeric Golden Milk Popsicles to Help Boost The Immune System

Do you know turmeric ?
If you don ’ t already know about this incredible spice , you definitely should !
Turmeric is a beautiful golden color and is responsible for that rich honey yellow of certain curries .
Used in India for thousands of years as both a spice and a medicinal herb , the western world seems to be waking up to the medicinal benefits of turmeric too .
( 1 ) Why is turmeric so powerful ?
Curcumin is the answer .
This is the active compound found in turmeric .
Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of curcumin naturally found in turmeric is not all that high , around 3 % .
So if the intended use is of a medicinal nature , people often take supplements with concentrated amounts of curcumin .
But as an addition to one ’ s everyday diet , turmeric offers wonderful flavor , color , and is found to help boost the immune system too .
These turmeric popsicles are a great way to obtain some of these benefits and cool off at the same time .
( 2 ) Turmeric is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of year .
Many people think of a daily cold and flue regimen only during the fall and winter months , but it ’ s important to think about maintaining a healthy immune system all the time .
Your immune system is always working to support you , and it ’ s nice to give it a boost when you can .
Studies have discovered that curcumin could act as an immunomodulatory agent .
This means it looks to be capable of modulating the activity of T-cells and B-cells , and pro-inflammatory cytokines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conductor of an orchestra , the curcumin in turmeric can direct cells on where to go and how many are needed in a given situation .
All of this , in addition to enhancing your immune system ’ s antibody response too .
Turmeric itself is loaded with antioxidants to help stop free-radical damage from occurring .
Oxidative damage is thought to be what ’ s behind a lot of the diseases that come with aging , and that makes a lot of sense .
Oxidation is a process of changing , often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cellular level in our bodies and is completely natural .
But the role that oxidation plays , and the effect it has on us , can be influenced by diet .
That ’ s where foods that are high in antioxidants come in handy .
And foods that are deliciously cool on a hot summer day , definitely get our vote .
Golden Milk Popsicles To Help Boost The Immune System Golden milk is so yummy and satisfying , you ’ ll want it every day !
In the summer when it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wonderful popsicles .
As temperatures dip , turn it into a warm and soothing beverage that helps you drift off to sleep at night .
• None Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth .
Strain through a mesh strainer to get a nice silky-smooth liquid .
• None Pour the golden milk into popsicle molds .
Freeze for 1 hour .
Remove from the freezer and insert the sticks .
Freeze until solid .
• None To get the popsicle out of the mold easily , try running it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moments .
Enjoy !

Do you know turmeric? If you don’t already know about this incredible spice, you definitely should! Turmeric is a beautiful golden color and is responsible for that rich honey yellow of certain curries. Used in India for thousands of years as both a spice and a medicinal herb, the western world seems to be waking up to the medicinal benefits of turmeric too. (1)
Why is turmeric so powerful? Curcumin is the answer. This is the active compound found in turmeric. Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant.
Unfortunately, the level of curcumin naturally found in turmeric is not all that high, around 3%. So if the intended use is of a medicinal nature, people often take supplements with concentrated amounts of curcumin. But as an addition to one’s everyday diet, turmeric offers wonderful flavor, color, and is found to help boost the immune system too.
These turmeric popsicles are a great way to obtain some of these benefits and cool off at the same time. (2)
How Curcumin Supports The Immune System
Turmeric is a great addition to your diet any time of year. Many people think of a daily cold and flue regimen only during the fall and winter months, but it’s important to think about maintaining a healthy immune system all the time. Your immune system is always working to support you, and it’s nice to give it a boost when you can.
Studies have discovered that curcumin could act as an immunomodulatory agent. This means it looks to be capable of modulating the activity of T-cells and B-cells, and pro-inflammatory cytokines too. (3) Like the conductor of an orchestra, the curcumin in turmeric can direct cells on where to go and how many are needed in a given situation. All of this, in addition to enhancing your immune system’s antibody response too.
The Antioxidant Power Of Turmeric
Turmeric itself is loaded with antioxidants to help stop free-radical damage from occurring. Oxidative damage is thought to be what’s behind a lot of the diseases that come with aging, and that makes a lot of sense. Oxidation is a process of changing, often breaking down. It happens on a cellular level in our bodies and is completely natural. But the role that oxidation plays, and the effect it has on us, can be influenced by diet. That’s where foods that are high in antioxidants come in handy. And foods that are deliciously cool on a hot summer day, definitely get our vote.
Golden Milk Popsicles To Help Boost The Immune System
Golden milk is so yummy and satisfying, you’ll want it every day! In the summer when it’s hot, enjoy it in these wonderful popsicles. As temperatures dip, turn it into a warm and soothing beverage that helps you drift off to sleep at night.
Ingredients:
2 cups unsweetened canned coconut milk
3 tbsp raw honey
1 teaspoon organic turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-22--A Swarm Of Flying Ants Stretched For Miles Over The UK And Looked Like Rain On Weather Radar

I ’ m sure I ’ m not the only person in the world wondering what else 2020 can throw at us .
It ’ s bad enough COVID-19 has taken over our lives .
But add to that the crazy insect world and the bizarre bugs that keep turning up and causing trouble and it starts to feel a little like the old plague and pest thing happening all over again .
Religious connotations aside , from murder hornets to the rising of cicadas and the latest giant swarms of flying ants , I ’ m starting to feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So what ’ s with the flying ants ?
( 1 , 2 , 3 ) The swarm of flying ants was spotted by the UK ’ s national weather service , the Met Office .
They shared radar images that many might mistake for rain .
Instead , it was ant swarms flying over southeast England .
( 1 ) “ It ’ s not raining in London , Kent or Sussex , but our radar says otherwise , ” tweeted the Met office on July 17 , 2020 .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the weather was clearly dry , hot , and sunny .
It ’ s easy to see why there was some confusion once you take a look at the images .
The swarm remained visible on the radar for about two hours .
( 1 ) As well , there weren ’ t enough clouds on the weather forecasters ’ satellites to produce rain at that time .
Suspicions the particles weren ’ t raindrops arose when it appeared the “ drops ” were too long and wide to be a rain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ta be bugs .
( 1 ) It wasn ’ t long before their bug hunch was confirmed .
People started posting on social media about the swarm using hashtags # flyingants and # flyingantday .
Yuck .
( 1 ) In areas in eastern England , swarm reports also popped up .
However , there weren ’ t enough flying ants in the area to show up on the radar .
( 1 ) Apparently , flying ants are a British tradition in the summer months .
When they appear , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day.
” However , there isn ’ t really an official , single day the phenomenon takes place according to the Royal Society of Biology ( RSB ) .
( 4 ) The Right Conditions For Flying Ants It occurs when young queen ants and males leave their nests to breed and start new colonies .
( 4 ) Ants only take flight when they have the right conditions according to the ( RSB ) .
That explains why they all seem to take off together when climate conditions are just right .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ isn ’ t one specific day that can be declared Flying Ant Day .
( 4 ) According to RSB studies , it has to be warmer than 13C ( 55 degrees Fahrenheit ) and wind speeds have to be less than 6.3 meters ( 21 feet ) per second .
Flying ants tend to take flight on summer days with a mean temperature above 25C ( 77 degrees Fahrenheit ) .
( 4 ) The good news is , despite their ick factor , the flying ants are quite harmless .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ environment .
These little flying barons of the insect world keep soil healthy by aerating the ground allowing more water , oxygen , and nutrients to reach roots .
They also provide a tasty snack for animals .
( 4 )

I’m sure I’m not the only person in the world wondering what else 2020 can throw at us. It’s bad enough COVID-19 has taken over our lives. But add to that the crazy insect world and the bizarre bugs that keep turning up and causing trouble and it starts to feel a little like the old plague and pest thing happening all over again. Religious connotations aside, from murder hornets to the rising of cicadas and the latest giant swarms of flying ants, I’m starting to feel a little antsy (pun intended). So what’s with the flying ants? (1, 2, 3)
Flying Ants: It’s Not Rain
The swarm of flying ants was spotted by the UK’s national weather service, the Met Office. They shared radar images that many might mistake for rain. Instead, it was ant swarms flying over southeast England. (1)
“It’s not raining in London, Kent or Sussex, but our radar says otherwise,” tweeted the Met office on July 17, 2020. (1)
Although it looked like rain, the weather was clearly dry, hot, and sunny. It’s easy to see why there was some confusion once you take a look at the images. The swarm remained visible on the radar for about two hours. (1)
No Clouds, Just Flying Ants
As well, there weren’t enough clouds on the weather forecasters’ satellites to produce rain at that time. Suspicions the particles weren’t raindrops arose when it appeared the “drops” were too long and wide to be a rain. Nope, that’s gotta be bugs. (1)
Flying Ants Hunch Confirmed
It wasn’t long before their bug hunch was confirmed. People started posting on social media about the swarm using hashtags #flyingants and #flyingantday. Yuck. (1)
In areas in eastern England, swarm reports also popped up. However, there weren’t enough flying ants in the area to show up on the radar. (1)
Flying Ants A Summer Tradition
Apparently, flying ants are a British tradition in the summer months. When they appear, they dub the momentous occasion “Flying Ant Day.” However, there isn’t really an official, single day the phenomenon takes place according to the Royal Society of Biology (RSB). (4)
The Right Conditions For Flying Ants
It occurs when young queen ants and males leave their nests to breed and start new colonies. (4)
Ants only take flight when they have the right conditions according to the (RSB). That explains why they all seem to take off together when climate conditions are just right. It’s also the reason there isn’t one specific day that can be declared Flying Ant Day. (4)
According to RSB studies, it has to be warmer than 13C (55 degrees Fahrenheit) and wind speeds have to be less than 6.3 meters (21 feet) per second. Flying ants tend to take flight on summer days with a mean temperature above 25C (77 degrees Fahrenheit). (4)
Flying Ants Are Harmless
The good news is, despite their ick factor, the flying ants are quite harmless. In fact, they are good for the environment. These little flying barons of the insect world keep soil healthy by aerating the ground allowing more water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach roots. They also provide a tasty snack for animals. (4)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-23--Bread Shortage? This Is The Easiest Kind Of Bread You Can Make

Maybe quarantine and coronavirus have got you in the mood to cook , or perhaps you ’ ve always been a baker at heart .
Well , here ’ s a recipe for what is promised to be the easiest bread you can ever make–Navajo flatbreads .
Jamie Oliver is a renowned British chef , with books and shows .
In his cookbook , Jamie ’ s America , he describes Navajo flatbreads as “ sort of cross between Indian naan breads and Mexican tortillas .
They ’ re used for breakfast , lunch or dinner and carry , complement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with them.
” He goes on to say that “ in the old days , ” there was a relationship test attached to these breads .
Oliver says that “ if a Navajo woman couldn ’ t whip up a batch of fluffy flatbreads , her chances of marrying a decent bloke were pretty low .
No pressure !
” ( 1 ) The Origins Of This Bread Recipe Brandon Johnson owns The Brass Kettle in Aberdeen , South Dakota .
Even though he ’ s had to close his dining room due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thinking of others .
“ Looking at the shortages going on , I just put it on Facebook hoping it helps someone , ” Johnson says .
“ People are sharing their stories , and talking about living on hard times , and even just bread shortages .
.
.
by connecting with other people across the world they feel a little bit better together.
” His grandma used to make this bread for their family .
Growing up with not much money , sometimes this was all he had to eat for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide the same nourishment to others .
“ If people can use it and it can help somebody , then the job is done , that ’ s the whole intention of it.
” ( 2 ) • None 2 teaspoons of oil ( try vegetable oil or shortening ) • • None Mix together the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl • None Add in the oil or shortening • None Pour most of the water into the bowl • None Continue slowly adding in the water as you blend the ingredients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has the consistency of uncooked pizza dough–slightly sticky–then it ’ s ready • None Knead the dough together for a few minutes • None Let the dough rest in the greased bowl for 30 – 60 minutes • None Divide your dough into six segments • None The thickness of each section of dough should be about the same thickness as a tortilla ) Tip : Roll each flatbread out onto a floured surface • None Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan for greasing • None Place your flatbreads onto the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you see golden-brown spots There are options when it comes to storing these Navajo flatbreads .
They can be kept for two days under a flour sack towel .
They can also be frozen , inside a freezer-safe bag ( 3 )

Maybe quarantine and coronavirus have got you in the mood to cook, or perhaps you’ve always been a baker at heart. Well, here’s a recipe for what is promised to be the easiest bread you can ever make–Navajo flatbreads.
How A Chef Describes This Bread
Jamie Oliver is a renowned British chef, with books and shows. In his cookbook, Jamie’s America, he describes Navajo flatbreads as “sort of cross between Indian naan breads and Mexican tortillas. They’re used for breakfast, lunch or dinner and carry, complement or mop up whatever is being served with them.” He goes on to say that “in the old days,” there was a relationship test attached to these breads. Oliver says that “if a Navajo woman couldn’t whip up a batch of fluffy flatbreads, her chances of marrying a decent bloke were pretty low. No pressure!” (1)
The Origins Of This Bread Recipe
Brandon Johnson owns The Brass Kettle in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Even though he’s had to close his dining room due to Covid-19, he’s still thinking of others. “Looking at the shortages going on, I just put it on Facebook hoping it helps someone,” Johnson says. “People are sharing their stories, and talking about living on hard times, and even just bread shortages . . . by connecting with other people across the world they feel a little bit better together.” His grandma used to make this bread for their family. Growing up with not much money, sometimes this was all he had to eat for the day. He hopes it will provide the same nourishment to others. “If people can use it and it can help somebody, then the job is done, that’s the whole intention of it.” (2)
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups of lukewarm water
2 teaspoons of oil (try vegetable oil or shortening)
1 Tablespoon of baking powder
1 teaspoon of salt
Mixing bowl
Griddle or cast-iron skillet (3)
Directions
Mix together the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl Add in the oil or shortening Pour most of the water into the bowl Stir water, oil, and dry ingredients together Continue slowly adding in the water as you blend the ingredients together When the mixture has the consistency of uncooked pizza dough–slightly sticky–then it’s ready Knead the dough together for a few minutes Let the dough rest in the greased bowl for 30 – 60 minutes Divide your dough into six segments Roll out each segment flat. ( The thickness of each section of dough should be about the same thickness as a tortilla) Tip: Roll each flatbread out onto a floured surface
Heat your cooking surface–griddle or cast-iron skillet–to 350℉ Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan for greasing Place your flatbreads onto the pan or skillet Cook until you see golden-brown spots Flip your flatbreads Cook them until finished Eat and enjoy!
(3)
Notes On The Recipe
There are options when it comes to storing these Navajo flatbreads. They can be kept for two days under a flour sack towel. They can also be frozen, inside a freezer-safe bag (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-24--What The Hell Is This River of Black Sludge Oozing Through Arizona?

The dumpster fire that is 2020 has brought us wildfires in Australia , the COVID-19 pandemic , and murder hornets .
And now , a river of black sludge is oozing through Arizona .
What is going on ?
( 1 ) Officials from Pima County tweeted a 53-second video of the black sludge careening its way along a trail on July 16 , 2020 .
They aptly captioned the video , “ Who had this on their 2020 hellscape bingo card ?
” ( 1 ) Pima County ’ s Facebook page provided a bit more information on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same day , officials identified the black sludge as a flash flood .
In this context , it seems clear that the apocalyptic-looking river is in fact a mix of water and charred debris .
As the flood gets closer to the camera , you can see steam rising off of it .
( 2 ) In the Facebook post , officials said that the video was taken on Wednesday , July 15 , 2020 in the Cañada del Oro Wash .
They wrote that the flood occurred after a minor storm and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 ) “ Floods can happen anywhere and at any time .
But did you know wildfires increase flood risks ?
It ’ s true , ” Pima County officials wrote on Facebook .
“ Wildfires like the Bighorn Fire leave the ground charred , barren , and unable to absorb water .
Even a light rain can produce devastating flash floods and mudflows , often with little warning.
” ( 2 ) The Bighorn Fire started in the Catalina Mountains west of Tucson on June 5 , 2020 .
Thought to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fire burned 119,978 acres before becoming fully contained on July 23 , 2020 .
( 3 ) Weather conditions at the time of the fire were both dry and windy .
This pushed the fire toward communities , and many residents were forced to evacuate .
( 3 ) While the fire has been contained , officials warn that there are still risks associated with the burned area , which is still closed to the public .
On a website sharing information about the Bighorn Fire , officials wrote , “ While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residual heat within the containment line may be visible for some time .
A closure order remains in effect for public safety as there are hazards in the burn scar and the Bighorn Fire increased the possibility of flooding downstream and of sediment and debris runoff.
” ( 3 ) So although residents of Pima County are undoubtedly relieved that the Bighorn Fire has been contained , they still need to worry about flash floods .
Pima County ’ s Floods Follow Fires website warns residents , “ As water runs downhill through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and undercut previously stable areas which causes large amounts of burned material ( ash , sand , silt , rocks , trees ) to become loose , ” just like the river of black sludge they posted a video of .
“ As water and the material begin to move , the risk of damage to downhill areas increases.
” ( 4 ) According to the website , Pima County has been the eighth deadliest location for flood-related fatalities in the United States for the 20 previous years .
The site encourages residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to buy flood insurance .
( 4 ) The flash flood may not exactly be a river of black sludge , but it ’ s haunting nonetheless .
And here ’ s to hoping we don ’ t fill in any more spaces on our 2020 hellscape bingo cards .
( 1 )

River of Black Sludge
The dumpster fire that is 2020 has brought us wildfires in Australia, the COVID-19 pandemic, and murder hornets. And now, a river of black sludge is oozing through Arizona. What is going on? (1)
Officials from Pima County tweeted a 53-second video of the black sludge careening its way along a trail on July 16, 2020. They aptly captioned the video, “Who had this on their 2020 hellscape bingo card?” (1)
Who had this on their 2020 hellscape bingo card? pic.twitter.com/fUNvIVS7aw — Official Pima County (@pimaarizona) July 16, 2020
Pima County’s Facebook page provided a bit more information on the phenomenon. In a post from the same day, officials identified the black sludge as a flash flood. In this context, it seems clear that the apocalyptic-looking river is in fact a mix of water and charred debris. As the flood gets closer to the camera, you can see steam rising off of it. (2)
In the Facebook post, officials said that the video was taken on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 in the Cañada del Oro Wash. They wrote that the flood occurred after a minor storm and added the hashtag #floodsfollowfires. (2)
“Floods can happen anywhere and at any time. But did you know wildfires increase flood risks? It’s true,” Pima County officials wrote on Facebook. “Wildfires like the Bighorn Fire leave the ground charred, barren, and unable to absorb water. Even a light rain can produce devastating flash floods and mudflows, often with little warning.” (2)
Bighorn Fire
The Bighorn Fire started in the Catalina Mountains west of Tucson on June 5, 2020. Thought to have been caused by a lightning strike, the fire burned 119,978 acres before becoming fully contained on July 23, 2020. (3)
Weather conditions at the time of the fire were both dry and windy. This pushed the fire toward communities, and many residents were forced to evacuate. (3)
While the fire has been contained, officials warn that there are still risks associated with the burned area, which is still closed to the public. On a website sharing information about the Bighorn Fire, officials wrote, “While the fire is 100% contained, residual heat within the containment line may be visible for some time. A closure order remains in effect for public safety as there are hazards in the burn scar and the Bighorn Fire increased the possibility of flooding downstream and of sediment and debris runoff.” (3)
Floods Follow Fires
So although residents of Pima County are undoubtedly relieved that the Bighorn Fire has been contained, they still need to worry about flash floods. Pima County’s Floods Follow Fires website warns residents, “As water runs downhill through burned areas, it can create erosion and undercut previously stable areas which causes large amounts of burned material (ash, sand, silt, rocks, trees) to become loose,” just like the river of black sludge they posted a video of. “As water and the material begin to move, the risk of damage to downhill areas increases.” (4)
According to the website, Pima County has been the eighth deadliest location for flood-related fatalities in the United States for the 20 previous years. The site encourages residents to create an emergency response plan and to buy flood insurance. (4)
The flash flood may not exactly be a river of black sludge, but it’s haunting nonetheless. And here’s to hoping we don’t fill in any more spaces on our 2020 hellscape bingo cards. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-24--12 Early Warning Signs of a Vitamin B12 Deficiency That Should Never Be Ignored

It can be hard to keep up with all the types of vitamins and minerals we need to stay healthy .
A common vitamin you hear a lot about is Vitamin B12 .
It ’ s important because it helps produce red blood cells and DNA .
It also keeps the nervous system healthy .
However , it is possible to have a Vitamin B12 deficiency and not even know it .
Here are 12 early warning signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency that shouldn ’ t be ignored .
( 1 ) • Dementia like symptoms such as confusion , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can experience these symptoms and not be deficient in Vitamin B12 , you should still speak to your doctor .
( 1 ) One of the earliest warning signs according to the charity , Patient Thyroid Advocacy , is the appearance of white spots on the skin .
Most commonly they appear on the arm , but they can appear anywhere .
It could be a result of reduced melatonin , which produces the color in skin .
Once they appear , they often become dry and flaky .
However , they are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forearm gradually .
( 1 ) Pins and needles is the unpleasant sensation you get when your feet fall asleep .
In the case of a deficiency , it can also lead to numbness .
The deficiency can cause changes in nerve connections leading to a condition called Vitamin B12 neuropathy .
In some people , it can be downright painful .
( 4 ) The sensation can occur in the hands , feet , or in some cases the legs .
The legs might also experience vibrations and a decreased sensitivity to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain in the palms of the hands .
( 4 ) Symptoms in and around the mouth can include an itchy tongue and sores around the lips .
Apparently , the itch can be very frustrating causing a constant need to scratch the area along the edge or tip of the tongue .
Mouth sores tend to appear at the corners of the mouth and are quite raw and uncomfortable .
( 3 ) Because Vitamin B12 plays a key role in red blood cell production , a deficiency can lead to anemia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can experience a reduced sense of taste .
In fact , many of the symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency are related to anemia , a condition caused by low red blood cells or hemoglobin .
If a B12 deficiency goes on over a longer period of time , anemia can develop .
When anemic , you are more likely to develop more symptoms including muscle weakness , depression , paresthesia , diarrhea , mouth ulcers , disturbed vision , and irritability .
( 2 ) While many of the symptoms described here could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deficiency , you can avoid the risk by including more salmon , eggs , dairy , beef , or liver in your diet .
( 1 )

It can be hard to keep up with all the types of vitamins and minerals we need to stay healthy. A common vitamin you hear a lot about is Vitamin B12. It’s important because it helps produce red blood cells and DNA. It also keeps the nervous system healthy. However, it is possible to have a Vitamin B12 deficiency and not even know it. Here are 12 early warning signs of Vitamin B12 deficiency that shouldn’t be ignored. (1)
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency include: (1, 2, 3, 4)
White spots on the skin Itchy, tingly tongue Heart palpitations Exhaustion Constipation Muscle weakness Reduced sense of taste Irritability and depression Mouth sores Eye twitch Pins and needles (paresthesia) Dementia like symptoms such as confusion, poor concentration, and forgetfulness
Although you can experience these symptoms and not be deficient in Vitamin B12, you should still speak to your doctor. (1)
Vitamin B12 Deficiency White Spots
One of the earliest warning signs according to the charity, Patient Thyroid Advocacy, is the appearance of white spots on the skin. Most commonly they appear on the arm, but they can appear anywhere. It could be a result of reduced melatonin, which produces the color in skin. Once they appear, they often become dry and flaky. However, they are often overlooked because they appear on the forearm gradually. (1)
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Neuropathy
Pins and needles is the unpleasant sensation you get when your feet fall asleep. In the case of a deficiency, it can also lead to numbness. The deficiency can cause changes in nerve connections leading to a condition called Vitamin B12 neuropathy. In some people, it can be downright painful. (4)
The sensation can occur in the hands, feet, or in some cases the legs. The legs might also experience vibrations and a decreased sensitivity to touch. Some people also experience stabbing pain in the palms of the hands. (4)
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Mouth Symptoms
Symptoms in and around the mouth can include an itchy tongue and sores around the lips. Apparently, the itch can be very frustrating causing a constant need to scratch the area along the edge or tip of the tongue. Mouth sores tend to appear at the corners of the mouth and are quite raw and uncomfortable. (3)
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Reduced Sense Of Taste
Because Vitamin B12 plays a key role in red blood cell production, a deficiency can lead to anemia. When you are anemic, you can experience a reduced sense of taste. In fact, many of the symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency are related to anemia, a condition caused by low red blood cells or hemoglobin. If a B12 deficiency goes on over a longer period of time, anemia can develop. When anemic, you are more likely to develop more symptoms including muscle weakness, depression, paresthesia, diarrhea, mouth ulcers, disturbed vision, and irritability. (2)
While many of the symptoms described here could be completely unrelated to a Vitamin B12 deficiency, you can avoid the risk by including more salmon, eggs, dairy, beef, or liver in your diet. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-24--Quick & Easy Oatmeal Protein Cookies

Quick & Easy Oatmeal Protein Cookies

No , cookies aren ’ t exactly what might come to mind when you think “ healthy breakfast ” , but we ’ re not talking about your run of the mill chocolate chip cookie here .
Sure , it ’ s got “ cookie ” in the name , but that refers more to its shape than a cookie ’ s typical status as a sweet dessert treat .
In fact , two of the key ingredients in these cookies are Greek yogurt and oats , each very well-established as breakfast foods in their own right .
Oats are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good reason .
They are really good for you , and a perfect way to start your day on a healthy note .
Oats are loaded with a special kind of fiber known as beta-glucan , which helps lower cholesterol levels .
Fiber also helps keeps us fuller , longer , so it ’ s a perfect way to power up for a busy and productive morning .
Oats also contain high amounts of antioxidants , which are great for keeping you young and healthy on the inside and the outside .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creamy flavor of good quality Greek yogurt .
Dense yet fluffy , a bit like soft-serve ice cream , Greek yogurt is packed with protein .
High protein meals are where it ’ s at for folks who are normally a little peckish throughout the day but are trying to lose some weight .
The elevated protein helps in two ways : it keeps you fuller longer , and it can also help light up your metabolism .
One more amazing thing that Greek yogurt has : loads of probiotics .
Probiotics are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ balancing the bacteria found there , and you definitely want these guys in your life .
• None 2-3 scoops of vanilla protein powder of your choice • None 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt .
Use plain Greek yogurt for less sugar .
• None Heat your oven to 350°F .
Prepare a large baking sheet by spraying with cooking spray or covering with parchment paper .
• None Place the oats in a food processor .
Process until they ’ re mostly ground , with a few bigger pieces .
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ batter , but do not overmix .
• None Next add the blueberries .
Pulse for just 10 seconds to combine .
• None Scoop the batter onto your baking sheet , forming 18 evenly-spaced cookies .
• None Bake until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly browned , about 10-12 minutes .
• None Allow to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire cooling rack .
• None Store in the refrigerator for up to a week .
Breakfast is served !

No, cookies aren’t exactly what might come to mind when you think “healthy breakfast”, but we’re not talking about your run of the mill chocolate chip cookie here. Sure, it’s got “cookie” in the name, but that refers more to its shape than a cookie’s typical status as a sweet dessert treat.
In fact, two of the key ingredients in these cookies are Greek yogurt and oats, each very well-established as breakfast foods in their own right.
The Health Benefits Of Oats
Oats are a timeless breakfast staple, and for good reason. They are really good for you, and a perfect way to start your day on a healthy note. Oats are loaded with a special kind of fiber known as beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol levels. Fiber also helps keeps us fuller, longer, so it’s a perfect way to power up for a busy and productive morning. Oats also contain high amounts of antioxidants, which are great for keeping you young and healthy on the inside and the outside.
The Health Benefits Of Greek Yogurt
There is just something about the rich, creamy flavor of good quality Greek yogurt. Dense yet fluffy, a bit like soft-serve ice cream, Greek yogurt is packed with protein. High protein meals are where it’s at for folks who are normally a little peckish throughout the day but are trying to lose some weight. The elevated protein helps in two ways: it keeps you fuller longer, and it can also help light up your metabolism.
One more amazing thing that Greek yogurt has: loads of probiotics. Probiotics are all about making your tummy happy by balancing the bacteria found there, and you definitely want these guys in your life.
How To Make Blueberry Lemon Protein Cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup certified gluten-free oats
1 cup blanched almond flour
2-3 scoops of vanilla protein powder of your choice
1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt. Use plain Greek yogurt for less sugar.
1/2 cup unpasteurized honey or maple syrup
Zest from 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh blueberries
Directions:
Heat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a large baking sheet by spraying with cooking spray or covering with parchment paper. Place the oats in a food processor. Process until they’re mostly ground, with a few bigger pieces. Add in almond flour, honey, protein powder, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, lemon zest, baking powder, salt and baking soda. Process until everything has blended into a batter, but do not overmix. Next add the blueberries. Pulse for just 10 seconds to combine. Scoop the batter onto your baking sheet, forming 18 evenly-spaced cookies. Bake until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Breakfast is served!
Makes 18 cookies


Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Dear Reader : These are extraordinary times we ’ re living in , and while we always have a view toward health and wellness , sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different .
As our needs shift , self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren ’ t normally a part of your diet .
We believe that sometimes it ’ s OK to forego the usual self-care routine .
That ’ s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “ yummy but maybe not for every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Enjoy !
The pandemic has brought a lot of changes into many of our lives , many of them not so great .
But one thing it has done is raise every bread baker ’ s game .
No matter where your skills were before the lockdown began , you have no doubt leveled up .
Now that we ’ re well into the summer months , it is completely possible that by now you have baked literally every kind of bread there is to bake .
But what about blueberry zucchini @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , denseness that zucchini bread is so loved for , but with a zesty pop of flavor from ripe , fruity blueberries .
Not only is everyone ’ s favorite summertime squash really versatile , it ’ s actually quite good for you too !
It ’ s great for digestion , thanks to its high water content , electrolytes , and fiber .
That high fiber content happens to also be helpful in keeping you fuller , longer , helping to regulate your blood sugar by steering you clear of carbohydrates that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outdone , blueberries happen to be bursting with nutrition… not just flavor !
Many people think of blueberries as a superfood , and it ’ s hard to argue with that logic .
They are low in calories but packed full of fiber and vitamin C. Vitamin C is nice because it has antioxidant properties , but blueberries are loaded with polyphenols too .
These very special antioxidants are called flavonoids , and these flavonoids give blueberries the highest antioxidant capacity of any popular fruit or vegetable out there .
That ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how to bring these healthy things together into one decadent bread you ’ ll love treating yourself to .
• None Heat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare 4 min-loaf pans by lightly greasing them .
• None Beat together the eggs , oil , vanilla , and sugar in a large bowl .
Next , fold in the zucchini .
Add the flour , salt , baking powder , baking soda , and cinnamon and combine well .
Gently fold in the blueberries .
Pour the batter into your pans .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean .
Cool for 20 minutes in the pans , then move to wire racks and allow to cool completely .

Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we always have a view toward health and wellness, sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different. As our needs shift, self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the usual self-care routine. That’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!
The pandemic has brought a lot of changes into many of our lives, many of them not so great. But one thing it has done is raise every bread baker’s game. No matter where your skills were before the lockdown began, you have no doubt leveled up. Now that we’re well into the summer months, it is completely possible that by now you have baked literally every kind of bread there is to bake. But what about blueberry zucchini bread? That same fresh, moist, denseness that zucchini bread is so loved for, but with a zesty pop of flavor from ripe, fruity blueberries.
Health Benefits Of Zucchini
Not only is everyone’s favorite summertime squash really versatile, it’s actually quite good for you too! It’s great for digestion, thanks to its high water content, electrolytes, and fiber. That high fiber content happens to also be helpful in keeping you fuller, longer, helping to regulate your blood sugar by steering you clear of carbohydrates that spike blood sugar.
Health Benefits Of Blueberries
Not to be outdone, blueberries happen to be bursting with nutrition… not just flavor! Many people think of blueberries as a superfood, and it’s hard to argue with that logic. They are low in calories but packed full of fiber and vitamin C. Vitamin C is nice because it has antioxidant properties, but blueberries are loaded with polyphenols too. These very special antioxidants are called flavonoids, and these flavonoids give blueberries the highest antioxidant capacity of any popular fruit or vegetable out there. That’s really saying something!
Here’s how to bring these healthy things together into one decadent bread you’ll love treating yourself to.
Ingredients For Blueberry Zucchini Bread
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup vegetable oil
3 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups white sugar
2 cups shredded zucchini
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 pint fresh blueberries
Directions For Blueberry Zucchini Bread


healthyholisticliving--2020-07-27--Wife Takes Dishwashing Job At Nursing Home To Visit Husband With Alzheimer’s

When the March 2020 COVID-19 outbreak stopped visitors from visiting many care facilities , Steve Daniel ’ s wife decided to take a dishwashing job at her husband ’ s nursing home .
It was a worthwhile loophole for Mary Daniel , who was used to visiting her husband every night .
In a sweet and comforting ritual , the 57-year-old would normally get Steve ready for bed and lay with him for a few precious hours until he fell asleep .
The pandemic changed all of that .
When RoseCastle Management , the owners of the memory care facility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they wanted to do something to help .
After 114 days apart , Mary was able to huge Steve as his wife–and a RoseCastle employee .
( 1 ) Since 2013 , Steve has been dealing with early-onset Alzheimer ’ s disease .
It was a hard choice for Mary to make when deciding that more care was needed for her husband than she could provide .
The man had been a salesman , used to interacting with people throughout his day .
After his diagnosis , hours in front of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t contributing to his overall happiness .
It was then that Mary decided a memory care center would provide the socialization her husband needs .
According to Mary , Steve thrived at RoseCastle .
Her nightly visits brought comfort to the pair .
On March 10th , Mary ’ s visit went as usual and she headed home after Steve fell asleep .
The next day , as COVID-19 was sweeping through the globe , the facility called her with some bad news .
A state order meant that visitors were no longer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She wouldn ’ t be able to visit Steve for the foreseeable future .
While Mary was saddened , she had no way to predict the length and severity of the pandemic at the time .
As the days dragged on , she tried everything she could think of to get inside to see her husband .
She called RoseCastle Management , reporters , and even reached out to Florida ’ s governor .
Nothing seemed to work .
After a gut-wrenching visit with her husband through his window , Mary knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find another way .
She created an advocacy Facebook group to bring awareness to the isolation that nursing home patients and their families were facing .
Finally , her plight reached RoseCastle ’ s chief human resources officer Mary Raddant .
Her solution ?
Offer Steve ’ s wife a part-time dishwashing job at the nursing home , allowing her to spend time with her husband after her shift .
Without hesitation , Mary accepted and got to work .
( 1 ) Mary is now a full-fledged employee of RoseCastle .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of employment , especially during a pandemic .
“ I had to have a background check , a drug test , a COVID test , 20 hours of video training on everything , including infectious diseases , ” Mary explained to TODAY .
“ It was 100 percent legit.
” ( 2 ) While she was happy to finally see her husband , the reunion with Steve was emotional .
“ I opened the door and Steve just looked at me , wide-eyed , ” Daniel told The Washington Post .
“ Then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cried together , hugging and reveling in being able to touch after so long apart .
Now , Mary is able to see Steve twice a week after putting in some elbow grease as a dishwasher .
Although she ’ s grateful for the opportunity , she hopes to bring awareness to the plight of those isolated in care facilities during the pandemic .
( 1 ) While the restrictions in place help protect residents , Mary feels there ’ s a way to compromise without being unsafe .
In the meantime , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s able to see her husband even if it means a little extra labor .
“ I don ’ t mind being busy , ” she told TODAY .
“ Then I get the reward at the end.
” ( 2 )

When the March 2020 COVID-19 outbreak stopped visitors from visiting many care facilities, Steve Daniel’s wife decided to take a dishwashing job at her husband’s nursing home. It was a worthwhile loophole for Mary Daniel, who was used to visiting her husband every night. In a sweet and comforting ritual, the 57-year-old would normally get Steve ready for bed and lay with him for a few precious hours until he fell asleep. The pandemic changed all of that.
When RoseCastle Management, the owners of the memory care facility, heard about Mary’s situation, they wanted to do something to help. After 114 days apart, Mary was able to huge Steve as his wife–and a RoseCastle employee. (1)
A Dishwashing Job At The Nursing Home
Since 2013, Steve has been dealing with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. It was a hard choice for Mary to make when deciding that more care was needed for her husband than she could provide. The man had been a salesman, used to interacting with people throughout his day. After his diagnosis, hours in front of the television and constant time inside wasn’t contributing to his overall happiness. It was then that Mary decided a memory care center would provide the socialization her husband needs.
According to Mary, Steve thrived at RoseCastle. Her nightly visits brought comfort to the pair. On March 10th, Mary’s visit went as usual and she headed home after Steve fell asleep.
The next day, as COVID-19 was sweeping through the globe, the facility called her with some bad news. A state order meant that visitors were no longer allowed at nursing homes and similar facilities. She wouldn’t be able to visit Steve for the foreseeable future. While Mary was saddened, she had no way to predict the length and severity of the pandemic at the time. As the days dragged on, she tried everything she could think of to get inside to see her husband. She called RoseCastle Management, reporters, and even reached out to Florida’s governor. Nothing seemed to work.
After a gut-wrenching visit with her husband through his window, Mary knew Steve’s tears meant she needed to find another way. She created an advocacy Facebook group to bring awareness to the isolation that nursing home patients and their families were facing. Finally, her plight reached RoseCastle’s chief human resources officer Mary Raddant. Her solution? Offer Steve’s wife a part-time dishwashing job at the nursing home, allowing her to spend time with her husband after her shift. Without hesitation, Mary accepted and got to work. (1)
A Husband And Wife Reunited
Mary is now a full-fledged employee of RoseCastle. She went through all the normal rigors of employment, especially during a pandemic. “I had to have a background check, a drug test, a COVID test, 20 hours of video training on everything, including infectious diseases,” Mary explained to TODAY. “It was 100 percent legit.” (2)
While she was happy to finally see her husband, the reunion with Steve was emotional. “I opened the door and Steve just looked at me, wide-eyed,” Daniel told The Washington Post. “Then he said my name.” They both cried together, hugging and reveling in being able to touch after so long apart. Now, Mary is able to see Steve twice a week after putting in some elbow grease as a dishwasher. Although she’s grateful for the opportunity, she hopes to bring awareness to the plight of those isolated in care facilities during the pandemic. (1)
While the restrictions in place help protect residents, Mary feels there’s a way to compromise without being unsafe. In the meantime, she’s happy that she’s able to see her husband even if it means a little extra labor. “I don’t mind being busy,” she told TODAY. “Then I get the reward at the end.” (2)