Thursday 31 January 2019

Reggie Watts’ virtual reality dance party and more TED news


The TED community is busy with new projects and news — below, some highlights.

A virtual reality dance party at Sundance. Musician and comedian Reggie Watts and artist Kiira Benzing debuted their new project “Runnin’” at the Sundance Film Festival’s New Frontier exhibit. “Runnin’” is an “immersive, interactive music video” backed with a hypnotic techno beat by Wajatta (the musical duo of Watts and composer John Tejada). The project welcomes players into a “retro-future world,” coupling VR technology and the magic of dance into an experience of pure creativity. In an interview with the Sundance Institute, Watts said, “I always wanted Wajatta to be able to create videos that really embody the music in a fun way.” Check out the artist feature for a sneak peek at the visuals for the project and listen to a live performance of “Runnin’.” At the New Frontier exhibit, Nonny de la Peña also premiered a virtual reality photo booth and data artists Chris Milk and Aaron Koblin contributed to a project called “Emergence”. (Watch Watts’ TED Talk, de la Peña’s TED Talk, Milk’s TED Talk and Kobin’s TED Talk.)

Global science commission urges radical, planet-wide diet. The EAT-Lancet Commission, co-chaired by sustainability expert Johan Rockström and scientist Walter Willett, released a new report on the state of food production, environmental degradation and global sustainability. The commission, which is composed of 37 leading scientists from around the world, warns of serious consequences to current consumption patterns and offers a newly designed “planetary health diet” to help accelerate a “radical transformation of the global food system.” According to the report summary, the dietary shift will require doubling the consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts globally — and reducing sugar and red meat consumption by more than half. “To have any chance of feeding 10 billion people in 2050 within planetary boundaries, we must adopt a healthy diet, slash food waste and invest in technologies that reduce environmental impacts,” said Rockström in an interview with AFP. (Watch Rockström’s TED Talk.)

#WeKnowYouCare campaign launches. Advocacy organization Caring Across Generations, co-directed by activist Ai-jen Poo, launched its latest campaign, #WeKnowYouCare, which celebrates the 16 million men who act as caregivers for their families in America. By sharing video narratives from male caregivers, the campaign aims to highlight nuanced stories of masculinity and address why men who caregive are particularly vulnerable to isolation and lack of support. “Men were actually really quite harmed by the gender norms related to caregiving, in that it’s harder for them to ask for help, it’s harder for them to actually get the support that they need to do what is a very emotionally challenging — and otherwise [difficult] — thing to do,” said Poo in an interview with Bustle. (Watch Poo’s TED Talk.)

The hidden meanings of laughter. Neuroscientist Sophie Scott dives deep into the wonder of laughter on an episode of NPR’s Hidden Brain podcast; alongside host Shankar Vedantam, Scott discusses the animal kingdom, social bonds and the bizarre and beautiful science behind laughter. “Wherever you go in the world, you’ll encounter laughter. It has at its heart the same meaning. It’s very truthful, and it’s telling you something very positive. And that’s always a sort of wonderful thing to encounter,” she said. (Listen to the full episode.) (Watch Scott’s TED Talk.)

Have a news item to share? Write us at contact@ted.com and you may see it included in this round-up.



from TED Blog https://blog.ted.com/reggie-watts-virtual-reality-dance-party-and-more-ted-news/
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How Safe Is Your Over-the-Counter Medicine?

This over-the-counter medicine can cause serious side effects.

Over-the-counter medicines are a lucrative business for the pharmaceutical industry. Americans make 2.9 billion trips to pharmacies to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) drugs every year, spending a whopping $34.3 billion dollars! (1, 2)

While most OTC drugs have long been considered relatively harmless, recent research suggests otherwise; in many cases, the long-term consequences of taking OTC drugs were inadequately explored before their release on the market, and we are only now beginning to understand their numerous adverse effects. Read on to learn about the health risks of common OTC meds, including ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, decongestants, antacids, and antihistamines, and discover safe alternatives to these drugs.

Short on time? Use these links to skip ahead!

Why Over-the-Counter Drugs Are Not as Safe as We’ve Been Led to Believe

The public perception of over-the-counter medications is that they must be safe, since they are purchased without a prescription, and frequently without any advice or restrictions. However, a growing body of research shows that OTC drugs are anything but harmless. Ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen, decongestants, and antacids make up most of the OTC drug market and, unfortunately, our overuse of these products is damaging our health.

Over-the-counter medicine can hurt your gut health, your heart, and your immune system. Check out this article for more of the serious, even deadly, side effects of OTC medicine, and get natural alternatives. #healthylifestyle #functionalmedicine #chriskresser

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The Truth about Ibuprofen

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, are among the most commonly used drugs worldwide, with 70 million prescriptions and 30 billion over-the-counter doses sold annually in the United States. (3)

Ibuprofen’s popularity belies its high potential for adverse effects, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, kidney, and neonatal health complications.

It Carries Cardiovascular Risks

The cardiovascular risks of NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, were first identified decades ago. (4) Inexplicably, this information has remained mostly undisclosed to the public, causing millions of people to take a drug that could potentially compromise their heart health. In recent years, several studies have finally grabbed the attention of the medical community; in 2017, a study published in the European Heart Journal – Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy associated ibuprofen consumption with a 31 percent increased risk of cardiac arrest, while several others linked the drug to non-fatal myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure. (5, 6, 7)

Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase, an enzyme that produces inflammatory mediators, called prostanoids, from arachidonic acid. While NSAIDs inhibit the production of inflammatory, pain-inducing prostanoids, they also inhibit beneficial prostanoids that promote vasodilation (which helps reduce blood pressure); inhibit platelet aggregation (necessary for the blood to clot); and maintain a healthy vascular system. The reduction of beneficial cardioprotective prostanoids explains the increased risk of cardiovascular complications observed with ibuprofen use.

It May Cause Gastrointestinal Problems

The gastrointestinal complications of NSAIDs are also well recognized. Ibuprofen harms the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by reducing beneficial prostanoids that maintain the integrity of gastric tissue and the intestinal barrier. GI complications are exceedingly common; 60 to 70 percent of individuals who take NSAIDs long term develop intestinal inflammation, increased intestinal permeability, mucosal damage, gastric ulcers, diverticulitis, blood loss and anemia, and nutrient malabsorption. (8) Ibuprofen also alters the gut microbiota. (9, 10, 11) Furthermore, by damaging the intestinal barrier, ibuprofen allows for the transfer of inflammatory bacteria from the intestine to the liver, causing liver inflammation and promoting the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (12)

Ibuprofen Could Harm the Liver, Kidneys, and Immune Function

Ibuprofen damages the liver and raises levels of the enzymes AST, ALT, ALF, and bilirubin. (These are the primary markers in liver function testing.) Researchers are still trying to understand precisely how ibuprofen causes damage to the liver, but it could be, in part, an immune reaction to the drug or the body’s response to toxic byproducts produced when it attempts to metabolize ibuprofen. (13)

Ibuprofen damages the kidneys and interferes with immune function. The drug reduces glomerular filtration, the process by which the kidneys filter excess fluid and waste products into the urine, thereby straining the kidneys. Ibuprofen also impairs the immune response, suppressing the body’s ability to target and eradicate viral infection. (14)

It Carries Prenatal Risks, Too

In recent years, an alarming body of evidence has accumulated indicating that prenatal use of ibuprofen increases the risk of fetal and infant health problems. Using ibuprofen during pregnancy is associated with decreased birth weight, an increased risk of cerebral palsy, and altered fetal testis development. (15, 16, 17) Ibuprofen may induce these effects in a developing fetus by interacting with maternal hormones, inducing brain oxidative stress, stimulating endocannabinoid receptors in the nervous system, and inhibiting sulfation, a crucial biochemical pathway involved in detoxification.

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Why Aspirin Isn’t as Beneficial as You May Think

Public health authorities have long recommended low-dose aspirin therapy (taking a daily “baby aspirin” dose of 81 mg) for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. (18) However, recent research has cast serious doubt on the validity of this practice. A large NIH-funded study published in 2018 found that aspirin use has no beneficial effects on “healthy lifespan,” classified as life free of dementia or persistent physical disability, in older adults. (19)

In other words, regular aspirin use has no benefits for healthy adults. Aspirin may only exert protective effects in people with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.

Furthermore, the supposed benefits of aspirin in at-risk individuals must be weighed against the established health risks of the drug, including an increased risk of GI bleeding, hemorrhagic stroke, and brain bleeding. (20, 21)

The problematic effects of aspirin aren’t limited to adults; prenatal aspirin use is associated with an increased risk of fetal testicular dysfunction and cerebral palsy. (22, 23) The mechanisms by which aspirin induces these effects are similar to those noted with ibuprofen; aspirin alters maternal hormone production, causes oxidative stress, and inappropriately stimulates the endocannabinoid system, a biological system that plays a pivotal role in the development and function of the brain.

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Acetaminophen: Dangerous for Children—And Adults

Acetaminophen is an OTC analgesic consumed in the United States in massive quantities. Each week, approximately 23 percent of American adults pop an acetaminophen-containing medicine. (24) Unfortunately, few understand how harmful this common pain-relief drug may be.

If you’re planning on parenthood, take note: The effects of prenatal acetaminophen use by women and men on the health of their children are of special concern.
  • When women take acetaminophen before becoming pregnant or during pregnancy, they may significantly increase their baby's risk of developing childhood asthma, ADHD, autism, a reduced IQ, behavioral problems, language delay, impaired executive function, and cerebral palsy. (25, 26, 27, 28, 29) (In animal studies, female mice exposed to acetaminophen/paracetamol gave birth to female offspring with dysfunctional reproductive systems.) (30)
  • Paternal preconception acetaminophen use for eight or more days is also associated with ADHD in children. (31) Acetaminophen increases the risk of these conditions by decreasing glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant, thus leaving the fetal respiratory system and brain vulnerable to oxidative stress.
  • Acetaminophen use during early childhood may also be harmful. The use of acetaminophen in babies between the ages of 12 and 18 months increases the risk of autism spectrum disorder eight-fold. (32) In adults, acetaminophen may blunt emotions and empathy, indicating that it has adverse neurobehavioral effects well beyond pregnancy and childhood. (33, 34)

Acetaminophen is also toxic to the liver and kidneys. Over half of all acute liver failure cases are caused by acetaminophen overdose. (35, 36) Acetaminophen causes liver damage by increasing the permeability of the gut, allowing inflammatory bacteria to move from the gut into the liver. (37) The current recommended maximum dose for acetaminophen of 4,000 mg per day is capable of inducing liver damage, as indicated by elevations in the liver enzyme ALT, after just four days. (38) Last but not least, acetaminophen increases the risk of kidney and blood cancers. (39, 40) While the mechanism is not well understood, a potential explanation is that acetaminophen is a metabolite of phenacetin, a known (and now banned) carcinogen.

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Decongestants Can Have Serious Cardiovascular Side Effects

The active ingredient in most decongestants is pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors, which activate the sympathetic nervous system, increase heart rate, and raise blood pressure. When taken by individuals with undiagnosed hypertension, decongestants can cause hypertensive emergencies. (41, 42) To put this in perspective, 75 million Americans have hypertension, and over half of those do not have the condition under control or are undiagnosed. While decongestants list potential risks on the label, few people read the label or heed the advice. Decongestants pose a significant threat to these individuals, despite their OTC availability.

Decongestants have also been found to induce urinary problems in males over 50 years of age and can cause insomnia, nervousness, rapid heart rate, heart attack, and heart palpitations. (43) To make matters worse, taking decongestant nasal sprays for longer than just three days can induce a vicious cycle of rebound congestion—essentially, congestion gets worse after you stop taking the decongestant because your nasal passages have become dependent on the drug. This leads many people to continue decongestants indefinitely.

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The Many Dangers of Proton Pump Inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are among the most widely used OTC drugs for stomach upset, yet they come with a lengthy list of adverse effects. Proton pumps are well known for their role in the stomach, where they facilitate gastric acid production. The intention of taking a PPI is to reduce the activity of gastric proton pumps, thus lowering gastric acid production and alleviating reflux, peptic ulcers, and indigestion. However, few people realize that proton pumps are present in nearly every cell of the body and are essential for cellular energy production.

This means that PPIs don’t just affect the stomach; they also impair the body’s many other proton pumps and produce a wide range of negative physiological effects.

They Can Hurt Your Gut Health

Gastric acid is a component of chyme, the mixture of gastric juices and partially digested food that passes from the stomach to the small intestine. In a person with normal gastric acid production, chyme regulates the acidity of the upper small intestine, preventing bacteria from overreaching their bounds. By inhibiting gastric acid production, PPIs reduce the acidity of chyme and allow the number of microbes in the small intestine to rise, causing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). (44, 45) PPIs also change the composition of the gut microbiota, increasing levels of opportunistic pathogens and the risk of serious infections including Clostridium difficile, Campylobacter, and pneumonia. (46, 47, 48) Changes to the gut microbiota induced by PPIs may also raise the risk of chronic liver disease by increasing Enterococcus bacteria, which travel from the gut to the liver and exacerbate alcohol-induced liver disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. (49)

PPIs Can Lead to Nutrient Deficiencies

In addition to controlling bacterial populations in the small intestine, gastric acid is also required for the absorption of nutrients. Low gastric acid impairs digestion. Accordingly, deficiencies of vitamin B12, magnesium, iron, calcium, and vitamin C are common in users of PPIs. (50) In fact, poor magnesium and calcium absorption is one reason why PPIs may increase the risk of osteoporosis. (51)

They Have Neurological Effects

PPIs have been linked to an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Use of one PPI, omeprazole, is associated with declines in visual memory, episodic memory, motor and mental response speed, new learning, short-term and long-term attention, information retention, and strategy development. (52) Regular users of PPIs have a 44 percent increased risk of dementia compared to those who don’t use the drugs. (53)

There are several ways PPIs may contribute to neurodegeneration:

  • PPIs increase deposits of amyloid-beta plaques. Accumulations of these malformed proteins have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. PPIs cause this condition by upregulating enzymes that produce amyloid-beta and reducing the activity of protein-degrading lysosomes.
  • PPIs interact with tau protein, a component of neurofibrillary tangles. Neurofibrillary tangles accumulate inside neurons and impair neurological function in Alzheimer’s disease.
  • PPIs decrease magnesium and vitamin B12 levels. B12 deficiency negatively affects cognition and promotes neurological damage by interfering with DNA synthesis and methylation and promoting homocysteine neurotoxicity.  Magnesium deficiency harms cognition by lowering the brain’s defenses against oxidative stress.
  • PPIs inhibit proton pump function in neurons. Neuronal proton pumps regulate the release of neurotransmitters; impaired proton pump function alters neurotransmitter release and reuptake. (54)

They Can Hurt Your Heart Health

PPIs are harmful to the cardiovascular system. The use of PPIs after a heart attack is associated with a 30 percent increased risk of cardiovascular death, a subsequent heart attack, or stroke. (55) Use of PPIs is also associated with an increased risk of stroke and heart failure. (56, 57) PPIs induce cardiovascular dysfunction by reducing nitric oxide, which promotes the dilation of blood vessels and improves blood flow, and by increasing ADMA, a metabolic byproduct of arginine metabolism that damages the function of endothelial cells, which line the heart and blood vessels. By reducing levels of vitamin B12 and vitamin C, PPIs also weaken the body’s ability to lower homocysteine and oxidative stress, which are underlying causes of cardiovascular disease.

They Can Lead to an Increased Risk for Serious Illnesses—And Even Death

PPIs increase the risk of chronic kidney disease, gastric cancer, and colon cancer. A shocking 20 to 50 percent increase in risk for chronic kidney disease has been observed with regular use of PPIs. (58) PPIs promote gastric and colon cancer by raising the pH of the stomach, which causes the release of excessive amounts of gastrin, the hormone that causes the stomach to release gastric acid. Hypergastrinemia promotes gastric and colorectal cell hyperplasia, fundic gland polyps, and gastric carcinoids. (59, 60)

Long-term use of PPIs carries an increased risk of death, according to a recent study published in BMJ Open. In the study, the researchers examined the medical records of 275,000 users of PPIs and nearly 75,000 people who took another type of acid-suppressing drug, H2 blockers. They ultimately found that those who took PPIs for one to two years had a 50 percent increased risk of dying over the next five years compared to those on H2 blockers! (61) The increased risk of death is likely due to the neurological, cardiovascular, renal, and carcinogenic effects of prolonged PPI use.

The Issues PPIs Cause Are Long Term

As if the numerous harmful effects of PPIs weren’t enough, these drugs can also cause problems once they’ve been stopped. PPIs elevate the pH of the stomach, stimulating cells (known as parietal cells) to make more of the hormone gastrin. Elevated gastrin causes the stomach to produce more proton pumps and larger amounts of stomach acid. When PPIs are removed, the increased quantity of proton pumps and gastric acid can result in worse reflux than before the PPI, a condition referred to as “rebound reflux.” Rebound reflux promotes a hard-to-break cycle in which removal of the PPI worsens reflux, causing the affected individual to reach for PPIs again and again. However, the good news is that parietal cells are continually undergoing renewal, as healthy cells replace old ones, so former PPI users are not necessarily destined for rebound reflux forever.

Finally, there is evidence that the adverse effects of PPIs can pass from mothers to children. Use of PPIs during pregnancy may increase the risk of asthma in children by interfering with maternal digestion of proteins. Impaired maternal protein digestion may increase the number of allergens to which a fetus is exposed. Ultimately, this can cause changes in a developing baby’s immune system that may bring about an increased risk of allergies after birth. (62)

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Antihistamines May Impact Your Brain

In 2016, total sales of antihistamines in the United States amounted to a staggering $6.89 billion dollars, making them some of the most popular OTC medications. (63) Unfortunately, antihistamines are not exactly harmless. A recent study found that the use of anticholinergic drugs, a class of drugs under which antihistamines are included, is associated with an increased risk of dementia. (64) Benadryl, one of the most popular antihistamines, has been found in animal studies to impair memory consolidation, the process by which memories are stabilized after their initial acquisition. (65)

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Here Are Your Alternatives to OTC Drugs

Clearly, over-the-counter drugs are not as harmless as we’ve been led to believe. Fortunately, there are many safe, natural alternatives to OTC drugs that you can use to relieve pain, protect your heart, reduce congestion and allergies, and alleviate acid reflux and indigestion.

Five Alternatives to Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen

If you’re looking for pain relief, try one of these remedies in place of an OTC pain killer.

1. Boswellia

Boswellia is a resin extracted from the Boswellia serrata tree native to India, the Middle East, and North Africa. In ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, boswellia is used to treat arthritic pain, reduce inflammation, and quell fevers. Modern science has confirmed the anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, and analgesic properties of this plant, which mediates these conditions through the inhibition of inflammatory leukotrienes. (66) Boswellia that has been standardized to contain 30 percent AKBA (3-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid) is most useful for relieving pain and inflammation and improving joint mobility.

If supplementing with Boswellia serrata resin itself, the therapeutic dosage is typically between 800 and 1,200 mg taken three times per day. Encapsulated boswellia supplements that have been standardized for AKBA content, on the other hand, are taken at much lower doses of around 100 to 250 mg per day. Pregnant women must avoid boswellia because it can promote abortion.

2. Tart Cherry Juice

Tart cherry juice contains high levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation in the musculoskeletal system. Tart cherry juice has demonstrated benefits in the treatment of arthritis, exercise-induced muscle pain, and fibromyalgia. (67) Seek out a version that doesn’t contain added sugars to reap maximum anti-inflammatory benefits.

Tart cherry juice is most frequently consumed as a juice. In clinical trials, doses of tart cherry juice ranging from two to 12 ounces per day have been used; I recommend starting at the lower end of this range (two ounces) and working your way up from there, if necessary, until you notice a reduction in inflammation and pain. I recommend choosing an organic, no-sugar-added tart cherry juice such as Pomona Organic Tart Cherry Juice. Tart cherry juice can be safely consumed by pregnant women.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric, which contains the compound curcumin, is useful for alleviating arthritis pain. (68) Curcumin by itself has low bioavailability, requiring high doses to achieve therapeutic results. Piperine, a compound in black pepper, enhances curcumin absorption, so look for supplements that contain both compounds. Curcumin/piperine supplements should ideally contain 500 mg curcumin and 20 mg piperine per dose. Up to three doses can be taken per day. (69)

More recently, two more curcumin products with enhanced bioavailability were introduced to the market: BCM-95, a product that combines natural cofactors from turmeric root with curcumin to enhance bioavailability, and Meriva, a patented combination of curcumin and soy lecithin. The recommended dose of BCM-95 is 500 mg twice a day and that for Meriva is 200 to 500 mg twice a day.

While it is safe for pregnant women to consume turmeric in low doses with food, it should not be taken in high doses, such as those found in supplements, during pregnancy.

4. CBD Oil

CBD comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. It is extracted from the resin of cannabis buds and flowers and does not contain psychoactive THC. CBD exerts pain-relieving effects, alleviating neuropathic, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer pain by acting on the body’s endocannabinoid system. (70) I recommend thoroughly researching the brand of CBD oil you intend to use because inadequate regulation of the CBD industry has led to a lack of standardization and a high rate of mislabeling. (71)

5. Collagen

Collagen is a protein found in the connective tissue, skin, and bones of both our own bodies and the animals we eat. Supplementation with collagen has been found to significantly improve range of motion and alleviate joint pain in individuals with exercise-induced joint discomfort. (72) You can obtain collagen in your diet by consuming bone broth, chicken skin, or bone-in sardines, or by supplementing with a hydrolyzed collagen powder such as Vital Proteins’ Collagen Peptides.

In addition to these supplements, consuming an anti-inflammatory diet, getting adequate sleep and sun exposure, acupuncture, and keeping stress at a minimum can also alleviate pain with zero side effects.

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Four Options to Try Instead of Aspirin

Instead of aspirin, protect your cardiovascular health with these natural alternatives.

1. An Unprocessed, Nutrient-Dense Diet

A processed diet high in refined carbohydrates and lacking in crucial nutrients increases your risk of heart disease. Conversely, a nutrient-dense diet composed of organic, grass-fed animal products, seafood, plentiful non-starchy vegetables, moderate amounts of starchy plants, fruits, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats creates a foundation for a healthy heart.

2. Sunshine

Our bodies evolved under conditions of plentiful sun exposure. Sun exposure is required for the production of vitamin D and nitric oxide, both of which boost heart health. Aim for approximately 15 minutes of sun exposure per day, with face and limbs exposed as much as possible, during the peak hours of the day.

3. Exercise

This may seem like a no-brainer, but exercise is crucial for your heart health and is a much safer way to protect your heart than taking aspirin! Aim for regular exercise—30 or more minutes per day four days a week. Also, if you work a sedentary job, make sure to take frequent standing and walking breaks throughout the day or invest in a standing desk. Prolonged sitting is a major but modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease that we can easily reverse by getting out of our desk chairs! (73)

4. Improve Your Gut Health

A growing body of evidence indicates that the gut microbiota influences the development of cardiovascular disease. (74) Protect your heart by optimizing your gut health with an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fiber, eating fermented foods, and by addressing gut dysbiosis and possible infections. (75)

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Three Natural Decongestants

Instead of decongestants, try these home remedies.

1. A Warm Compress

Try applying a warm pack over your sinuses. Wet a washcloth with warm water and hold it over your sinuses to relieve sinus pressure.

2. A Hot Shower with Essential Oils

The steam from the shower will vaporize the oils, which you can then inhale into your sinuses. Eucalyptus and peppermint are two excellent options for opening the sinuses. (76)

3. Warm Tea and Soup

Drinking warm liquids can help loosen up congestion.

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Instead of Taking PPIs, Follow These Three Steps to Fix the Underlying Problem

Reflux is typically not caused by high stomach acid but rather by increased intra-abdominal pressure resulting from SIBO, which in turn may have been caused by low stomach acid. Instead of PPIs, you can cure reflux without medication by focusing on eradicating SIBO and restoring adequate stomach acid production. Here’s how to correct reflux without PPIs.

1. Eat a Low-Carb Diet

You can address SIBO with a low-carbohydrate diet or a low-FODMAP diet. The low-FODMAP diet should not be followed long term because it may starve beneficial gut bacteria of the fermentable fiber they require for fuel.

2. Improve Your Stomach Acid Production

Boost stomach acid production with hydrochloric acid capsules and supplement with enzymes and nutrients that aid digestion. Note that individuals on aspirin, corticosteroids, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs should not take hydrochloric acid due to the risk of exacerbating GI bleeding and ulcers. Bitter herbs such as dandelion, gentian, and yellow dock and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can also promote gastric acid production.

3. Feed Your Good Bacteria

Restore beneficial bacteria and a healthy mucosal lining in the gut with fermented foods, probiotics, bone broth, and gelatin.

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Instead of Antihistamines, Try These Five Options

There are many natural ways to alleviate allergies without resorting to antihistamines.

1. Quercetin

Quercetin, a flavonoid found in kale, onions, apples, and a variety of other fruits and vegetables, is a potent natural antihistamine that is free of side effects. (77)

2. Vitamin C

Vitamin C also lowers histamine by physically breaking apart the structure of the histamine molecule. (78)

3. Raw Honey

Local raw honey can benefit those with seasonal allergies by suppressing IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reactions and histamine release by mast cells. (79)

4. Improving Your Gut Health

Improving the health of your gut may also alleviate allergies. Research indicates that children with allergies tend to have increased levels of opportunistic and pathogenic bacteria, such as Staphylococcus, Clostridium, and Escherichia coli, and reduced levels of healthy bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. (80, 81)

5. Alleviating SIBO

SIBO may also contribute to allergies by triggering excess histamine production. Restoring balance to the gut microbiota with probiotics, particularly ones that degrade histamine, such as Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus plantarum, and treating SIBO may relieve allergic symptoms. Consuming fermentable fiber, which gut bacteria metabolize to produce butyrate, reduces intestinal permeability and increases T regulatory cells, which suppress certain immune responses such as those involved in allergies.

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Now I want to hear from you. Do you regularly take over-the-counter medications? Would you consider trying any of the alternatives I’ve suggested? Let me know in the comments below.

The post How Safe Is Your Over-the-Counter Medicine? appeared first on Chris Kresser.



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227: Using the Metabolism Reset Diet to Support Liver Health

Dr. Alan Christianson is a naturopathic endocrinologist who focuses on thyroid function, adrenal health, and metabolism. He’s been actively practicing in Scottsdale, Arizona since 1996 and is the founding physician behind Integrative Health which is a clinic there. He’s also a “New York Times” best-selling author whose books include the recent “Metabolism Reset Diet,” “The...

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Wednesday 30 January 2019

Signs of Frostbite + Tips to Keep Kids Warm

Extreme cold weather is nothing to mess with! This Southern girl got quite the education in winter weather safety while touring Tero Isokauppila’s beautiful (+ extremely snowy and cold) homeland in Finland. As you can imagine, knowing the signs of frostbite and how to stay warm in the snow is extremely serious business there. With the record-breaking...

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Avocado Kale Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing

Kale and avocado are a match made in heaven in this avocado kale salad with creamy basil dressing. This beautiful green salad is fresh, light and vibrant making it a perfect Spring and Summer meal but it’s hearty enough to enjoy throughout the colder months as well. This recipe is vegan and gluten-free. Health Benefits... Read More The post Avocado Kale Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing appeared first on Running on Real Food.

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Keratosis Pilaris Exfoliating Cream (DIY Recipe)

Have you ever noticed unsightly little red bumps on your skin? If so, they may be a condition called keratosis pilaris. Conventional treatments for the issue can be rather harsh on the skin, but there are natural options. This keratosis pilaris exfoliating cream helps moisturize and exfoliate for clearer skin. What Is Keratosis Pilaris? Also nicknamed...

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34 Healthy Oatmeal Recipes

OatmealHave you ever thought about how versatile oats are? Whether you prefer old fashioned rolled oats, quick oats, or steel cut oats, there are so many different ways to use oats. We love using oats here on Fit Foodie Finds! We love overnight oat recipes, stove top oatmeal, baked oatmeal, and ...

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Tuesday 29 January 2019

Sweet potatoes vs. potatoes: Which are really healthier? [Infographic]

Sweet potatoes vs. potatoes: A nutritional debate fueled by misinformation, baseless ‘superfood’ obsessions, and carbohydrate phobias. Here’s how these tubers compare — and why both deserve a place in your diet.

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A few years back, some crazy nutrition enthusiasts decided to figure out whether white or sweet potatoes were “healthier”.

One group compared the glycemic index and load of sweet potatoes vs. potatoes. They suggested that since white potatoes tend to be higher, they should be avoided.

Another group suggested that sweet potatoes are a vitamin A ‘superfood’, putting them way ahead of their white potato competitors.

And, of course, the carbophobes had their own take: All potatoes should be avoided because they’re too high in carbs and all those carbs will mess with your insulin regulation and cause fat gain.

Nonsense, all of it.

Both white and sweet potatoes, when eaten as part of a balanced and intentional diet, provide a fantastic array of nutrients while contributing to the satiety and deliciousness of any meal.

Check out this infographic to learn more about white and sweet potatoes, and why you should consider including both in your diet. (You can even download them for your printer or tablet).

Want to share this with family, friends, and clients? Click here to download the infographic and print it out, or save it on your tablet.

For an even more comprehensive take on this topic, check out our accompanying article, “Sweet vs. regular potatoes: Which are really healthier?”.

Passionate about nutrition and health?

If so, and you’d like to learn more about it, consider the Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification. Our next group kicks off shortly.

What’s it all about?

The Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification is the world’s most respected nutrition education program. It gives you the knowledge, systems, and tools you need to really understand how food influences a person’s health and fitness. Plus the ability to turn that knowledge into a thriving coaching practice.

Developed over 15 years, and proven with over 100,000 clients and patients, the Level 1 curriculum stands alone as the authority on the science of nutrition and the art of coaching.

Whether you’re already mid-career, or just starting out, the Level 1 Certification is your springboard to a deeper understanding of nutrition, the authority to coach it, and the ability to turn what you know into results.

[Of course, if you’re already a student or graduate of the Level 1 Certification, check out our Level 2 Certification Master Class. It’s an exclusive, year-long mentorship designed for elite professionals looking to master the art of coaching and be part of the top 1% of health and fitness coaches in the world.]

Interested? Add your name to the presale list. You’ll save up to 33% and secure your spot 24 hours before everyone else.

We’ll be opening up spots in our next Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2019.

If you want to find out more, we’ve set up the following presale list, which gives you two advantages.

  • Pay less than everyone else. We like to reward people who are eager to boost their credentials and are ready to commit to getting the education they need. So we’re offering a discount of up to 33% off the general price when you sign up for the presale list.
  • Sign up 24 hours before the general public and increase your chances of getting a spot. We only open the certification program twice per year. Due to high demand, spots in the program are limited and have historically sold out in a matter of hours. But when you sign up for the presale list, we’ll give you the opportunity to register a full 24 hours before anyone else.

If you’re ready for a deeper understanding of nutrition, the authority to coach it, and the ability to turn what you know into results… this is your chance to see what the world’s top professional nutrition coaching system can do for you.

The post Sweet potatoes vs. potatoes: Which are really healthier? [Infographic] appeared first on Precision Nutrition.



from Blog – Precision Nutrition https://www.precisionnutrition.com/sweet-potatoes-vs-potatoes-infographic
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Easy Miso Soup Recipe (With Veggies)

Sometimes when the weather is chilly or you’re simply feeling under the weather, there is nothing better than a warm brothy soup. This miso soup combines nutrient-rich bone broth with the probiotic benefits of miso. And you get the benefits of vitamins and minerals from vegetables too. Make a big batch for the whole family or just...

Continue reading Easy Miso Soup Recipe (With Veggies)...



from Wellness Mama® https://wellnessmama.com/400609/simple-homemade-miso-soup/
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Peanut Butter Banana Cold Brew Protein Smoothie

a photo of a healthy breakfast smoothieStart your day off right with this Peanut Butter Banana Cold Brew Protein Smoothie! If you love the peanut butter banana combination with an added boost of protein, then you will love this healthy breakfast smoothie! Add your favorite scoop of protein to this smoothie and you are set for ...

The post Peanut Butter Banana Cold Brew Protein Smoothie appeared first on Fit Foodie Finds.



from Fit Foodie Finds https://fitfoodiefinds.com/peanut-butter-banana-cold-brew-protein-smoothie/
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Monday 28 January 2019

Easy Vegan 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies

These healthy, easy vegan 3-ingredient oatmeal cookies are made with rolled oats, sunflower seed butter and maple syrup. That’s it! This recipe is vegan, nut-free, gluten-free, refined sugar and oil-free. 3-Ingredient Cookie Ingredients Here’s what you’ll need to make these: Rolled oats. Look for rolled oats, large flake oats or old fashioned oats. I wouldn’t recommend quick... Read More The post Easy Vegan 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Cookies appeared first on Running on Real...

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from Running on Real Food https://runningonrealfood.com/3-ingredient-oatmeal-cookies/
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How to Freeze Bananas (for smoothies and baking!)

how to freeze bananasAre bananas a staple for you when it comes to smoothies and baking? Me too! Check out this post on how to freeze bananas for an easy step by step tutorial on how to slice bananas and save them in the freezer for later. How to Freeze Bananas- It’s SO ...

The post How to Freeze Bananas (for smoothies and baking!) appeared first on Fit Foodie Finds.



from Fit Foodie Finds https://fitfoodiefinds.com/how-to-freeze-bananas/
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226: Science-Backed Reasons to Ditch the Pill (& What to Do Instead) With Dr. Jolene Brighten

Dr. Jolene Brighten is back on the podcast today and she’s here to talk about a huge topic that affects so many women. If you don’t know her from previous podcasts, she is a Functional Medicine Naturopathic Medical Doctor and the Founder of Rubus Health, which is a women’s medicine clinic that specializes in hormones....

Continue reading 226: Science-Backed Reasons to Ditch the Pill (& What to Do Instead) With Dr. Jolene Brighten...



from Wellness Mama® https://wellnessmama.com/podcast/jolene-brighten/
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Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup

A bowl of Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper SoupGet out your pressure cooker and make this Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup. This one pot meal is easy to make and packed with flavor! You can make this stuffed pepper soup recipe for the entire week for an easy healthy lunch and/or dinner. We Love Instant Pot Soup Is ...

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from Fit Foodie Finds https://fitfoodiefinds.com/instant-pot-stuffed-pepper-soup/
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Sunday 27 January 2019

Cheesy Turkey Taco Chili Mac + Weekly Menu

Coconut Flour Chocolate Mug Cake

Whip up this easy coconut flour mug cake for dessert in 90 seconds. This chocolate mug cake is paleo, grain-free, refined sugar-free, and can easily be keto! It’s mug cake time! If you’re a lover of dessert, but need a little portion control assistance, mug cakes need to be your ...

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from Fit Foodie Finds https://fitfoodiefinds.com/coconut-flour-mug-cake/
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Sausage, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Spinach Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches

photo of stacked breakfast sandwhichesNeed a quick, grab-and-go breakfast? Make these delicious freezer breakfast sandwiches! They’re made with a sausage, sun-dried tomato, and spinach egg patty, cheese, and a whole grain English muffin. So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch of these make ahead breakfast sandwiches now! We’re biggggg breakfast fans ...

The post Sausage, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Spinach Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches appeared first on Fit Foodie Finds.



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Saturday 26 January 2019

Game Night Crispy Potato Bruschetta

Do you ever feel like you’re on the verge of a breakthrough, but you’re not quite sure how you’ll do it? This has been my mindset lately. I’ve been so inspired in different areas of my life to create meaningful change. Personal growth, career dreams, family life, etc. You could say that a little self-help inspo has struck me! I’ve felt stuck with indecision and fear for a while now, and the motivation finally hit me to actively do something about getting unstuck. It’s easy to just go through the motions each day.

For most of my life, I’ve always been trying to “fix myself”…this can be a positive thing (such as when I’m trying to be the best version of myself I can be), but it can also turn into a very toxic mindset. It’s easy for me to veer to the dark side of self-improvement and lose sight of my qualities and self-worth. Anyone who suffers from this tendency knows that it’s not a particularly fun way to live. You never feel “ready” because there’s always something to fix or a goal to achieve before being worthy of yours and others acceptance. I’m working to make progress in this area. It’s kind of hard to explain, but maybe you can relate?  

I have Dr. Brené Brown to thank for my recent bout of inspiration. I first became enamoured with Brené after watching her TED talk on vulnerability years ago and listening to her on Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations podcast. I’ve read The Gifts of Imperfection twice, and plan on reading it a third time soon (it’s a quick read and easy to devour in a couple evenings). There’s so much wisdom to soak up and I learn things each time I read it. Currently, I’m reading Daring Greatly (which I’m finding slower, but still learning from it), and hope to read this one and this one next. I’ve been carving out some reading time in the evenings lately and it feels so good to get back into it! I’m also (late to the party) using my Kindle reader on my phone and love how I can read a few pages here and there while I’m waiting for an appointment or when I have time to kill. I’d love to hear if you’re reading anything inspiring lately too!

“As children we found ways to protect ourselves from vulnerability, from being hurt, diminished, and disappointed. We put on armor; we used our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors as weapons, and we learned how to make ourselves scarce, even to disappear. Now as adults we realize that to live with courage, purpose, and connectionto be the person whom we long to bewe must again be vulnerable. We must take off the armor, put down the weapons, show up, and let ourselves be seen.”

~ Daring Greatly, p. 112.

  

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Game Night Crispy Potato Bruschetta

Vegan, gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, refined sugar-free, soy-free

The first time I made this healthy comfort food recipe, Eric and I had the song Ave Maria playing (Michael Bublé version...so hypnotizing!), and we fell into a trance as we ate crispy round after crispy round of potato bruschetta. Needless to say, we heard the angels singing, and I think you will too! This recipe serves two hungry people as a main or five as an appetizer. The best tip I can give you before making these is to serve it directly on the baking sheet (if you can!) as it keeps the rounds a bit warmer compared to transferring to a platter, and also to top the rounds and serve them right away. If they sit for longer than 10 minutes, they’ll lose their fantastic crispiness and soften considerably. This recipe is inspired by the Taco Fiesta Potato Crisps in The Oh She Glows Cookbook (also a delicious appetizer option!) and Potatoes USA.

Yield
30 potato rounds
Prep time
15 Minutes
Cook time
30 Minutes

Ingredients:

For the potatoes:
  • 2 large (500 g total) Russet potatoes (unpeeled)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 mL) grapeseed oil or virgin olive oil
  • Fine sea salt
For the Avocado-Tomato topping:
  • 2 medium (7 g) garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup (15 g) lightly packed fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cups (344 g/12-ounces) grape tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon (15 mL) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon (15 mL) balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, to taste
  • 1 large (240 g) ripe avocado

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220ºC) and line an extra-large (or 2 medium) baking sheet(s) with parchment paper.
  2. With a sharp knife, slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Make sure they’re not any thinner than that, or they might not be sturdy enough to pick up with your hands and the edges will burn easier while cooking.
  3. Place the rounds into the centre of one baking sheet in a mound. Toss with the oil until all sides of the rounds are fully coated. Spread into a single layer, spacing the rounds a 1/2-inch apart. Sprinkle liberally with salt.
  4. Roast the potatoes for 25 to 35 minutes (I do 30), flipping once halfway through baking, until tender and golden brown in some spots. I prefer these slightly overcooked as they’ll crisp up a bit around the edges.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the topping. In a large food processor, mince the garlic and basil until finely chopped. Add the tomatoes and pulseonly 10 to 14 timesuntil the tomatoes are chopped into almond- and pea-sized pieces. Remove the bowl, take out the blade and set aside, and stir in the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Set aside so it can marinate in the juices.
  6. Five minutes before the potatoes are ready, dice the avocado very small until the pieces are pea-sized. Fold the diced avocado into the tomato mixture. Taste and stir in more salt if desired. The mixture will look quite juicy/watery, but this is normal!
  7. After removing the potatoes from the oven, add another generous sprinkle of salt on top. Add 1/2 to 1 tablespoon avocado-tomato mixture onto a fork and strain out the juices by tapping the inside of the bowl. Place the strained mixture onto the centre of a potato round and repeat this process for the rest of the rounds.
  8. Serve immediately, directly from the baking sheet(s)I find serving from the baking sheet keeps them warmer, but if you prefer you can transfer the rounds to a platter before adding the topping. If the potatoes sit they will soften and lose their crispness, so I don’t recommend letting them sit around for longer than 5 to 10 minutes (usually not a problem in this house!). If you have any avocado-tomato mixture leftover feel free to polish it off with some tortilla chips!

Tips:

Up the glow factor: Sprinkle my Vegan Parmesan Cheese on top.

 

Should your potatoes become soft from sitting for too long, these reheat well on a sauté pan, preheated over medium heat, for 1 to 2 minutes. This results in slightly browned bottoms and revives the firm texture without affecting the toppings.

Oh Eric, what a sport for being my food photography model, hah. There were some heavy sighs when his arms got tired…no one said being a model was easy! Okay, maybe they did say that…but just ask Eric about the struggles!

In case you’re wondering – these “photoshoot” potato bruschettas were SO COLD by the time we finally got to eat them. Sniff, sniff. But they were still worth eating! And we’ve enjoyed them many times piping hot out of the oven which is simply the best. If you try them out, I’d love to hear what you think and see your photos, so don’t forget to tag them with #ohsheglows on social media! 



from Oh She Glows https://ohsheglows.com/2019/01/26/game-night-crispy-potato-bruschetta/
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