Category: Science

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Not Every Ladybug Is Lucky, and Here’s How You Tell the Difference

Ladybugs (or ladybirds, for you UK-types) actually include a number of species that fall under the species umbrella coccinellidae. They’re widely considered to be good luck symbols, to represent joys to equal your sorrows, and are sometimes associated with the Virgin Mary.

They’re one of a group of 6,000 or so small beetles that are similar in marking and color – lady beetles, really, not bugs at all – most of which are beneficial creatures that feed on agricultural pests. Everyone likes ladybugs, right?

Well, get ready to rethink your position. The North American ladybug (which is a good little beetle) is strikingly similar to the Asian ladybug, which was introduced by the USDA in order to combat the spread of aphids and has since spread through pretty much every state in the lower 48.

Image Credit: Pixabay

While the Asian ladybug does prey on aphids, it also has overtaken native species – and it’s not nearly as harmless to humans. They like to nest in the cracks and crevices of homes, they can stain walls and fabrics, and they are more aggressive than native varieties (they may even bite you).

They can also ruin the taste of wine if they infest a vineyard, which is no good at all!

You can keep them out of your house by making sure cracks around windows, doors, pipes, vents, etc. are all tightly fitted, and that rips in your screens are repaired. Once they’re inside you can vacuum them up or catch them on sticky tape – but don’t squish them. If you do, them the ensuing goo could stain your furniture.

Image Credit: Pixabay

If you’re wanting ladybugs for your garden, try to make sure the variety you want is what you receive. Which brings us to this: if they’re similar in markings and color, how can we tell the difference?

Well, the Asian variety can be more orange or yellow, instead of the deep red of the native North American ladybug, but the main distinctive feature is this: the Asian species has a marking toward its head that resembles a black M.

Image Credit: Catherine Song. © The Spruce, 2018

So, look closely, my friends, and don’t assume your luck is about to change if a ladybug lands on you – it could be about to bite.

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Anyone Trying to Lose Weight Should Read This First

Diet and weight loss is a billion-dollar industry, and there’s a reason for that – most people end up in a cycle of weight-loss and -gain that never ends, sending them back to the hamster wheel over and over again.

Or maybe, like personal trainer and nutrition coach Graeme Tomlinson believes, the trouble is that the diet and nutrition industry lies to people in order to get them to keep buying “health” food, and to keep them spinning the hamster wheel.

What if a little education, a little extra time, and a little adjustment in attitude could change all of that? What if eating “healthy” and losing weight didn’t have to make you sad?

Check out the 12 posts below if you’re intrigued – I know I am!

#1. Why counting calories is important.

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Nobody in the world (or certainly very few) intentionally aim to be overweight or obese. Yet it has happened to more than 65% of us. Whilst gaining fat appears relatively straightforward, reducing fat continues to be problematic. As does our understanding of the process required to do so and the food we eat. – – Google, social media, friends and family will all suggest means to achieve fat loss. The unanimous message from such sources is that one has to consume less food. And with this in mind, many attempt to severely reduce episodes of eating and minimise portion sizes. – – The problem with intuitive use of the above method is that alteration of body composition is not subjective. Instead, it answers objectively to the numeric balance of energy. Therefore unmeasured reduction of meals or quantity of food in meals/snacks/drinks may be redundant to fat loss unless actual energy within meals/snacks/drinks is accounted for. – – As the above example shows, reducing episodes of eating does not guarantee a calorie deficit. Here, an individual is hoping that their assumption of ‘eating less’ will support the goal. But the reality is that the individual is not factually aware of the caloric volume included in their nutritional consumption. – – Alternatively, accurate calculation of an individual’s compositional statistics in relation to TDEE can factually determine basic values of energy required to enter a state of caloric deficit. Once this is attained, an individual can become more astute at appreciating what counts for fat loss – consistent adherence to a negative energy balance. Thus, assumption is replaced by certain science whilst inclusion of all foods is possible. – – Despite what you hear, rigorously proven science shapes the world we live in – including our physical ability to change. The simplicity of accurately adhering to a functional caloric deficit is your fat loss science. It doesn’t force you to restrict carbs, do torturous HIIT, believe you need to detox or loiter around imaginary starvation modes. Instead, energy balance is the sole decider of fat loss/gain and it is free. You may want to make use of it, or at the very least appreciate it.?

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#2. You can’t tell me they don’t want us to be fat.

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For the ordinary individual, it is possible to consume balanced, nutritious food without eating into an overdraft. One can save money by purchasing nutrient dense produce in bulk. But, in 2019 it is becoming more difficult to purchase high quality convenience food for an affordable price. This is compounded by the fact that our lifestyle relies on convenience more than ever. – – The price difference is not because supermarkets want us to become overweight or consume poor quality ingredients. Instead, it’s simply down to the increased cost of quality, fresh produce in comparison to cheap, processed, lower quality produce. Many convenient, nutrient dense foods have also become fashion accessories, consumed boastfully with glee. – – The brutality of western business is exemplified by the rise of quinoa (which correlated with the rise of veganism). A grain which originated in Bolivia and Peru before its rise to the top of the Hollywood ‘clean eating hall of fame’. Despite its palatable unavailability, flossing manufactures no doubt experienced a boom in sales as celebrity nutrition guru’s the world over flocked to its side to feel ‘superhuman’ after consumption… – – Back in the real world of toil and pluck, such is the demand for quinoa, that poorer Bolivian’s can no longer afford it. A previously local, nourishing, dietary staple has now been forcefully replaced by cheaper, processed food. – – Granted, non optimal foods can be enjoyed as part of any diet. But bargain deals attached to lower quality produce increases likelihood of excessive quantities being purchased and consumed. – – In 2019, irrespective of business based reasoning, quality is not available to some underprivileged people. Whilst the price gap regarding convenience is large now, this may infiltrate into all food purchases, such is our societal appetite for nutritional status. – – For us to progress as a healthier, nutritionally classless society which considers a duty of care for all, this has to change ?. – – But how? ? – – #thefitnesschef #mealprep #junkfood #fastfood #cheapfood #obesity #diet #eatwell #healthyfood #nutrients #salad #fruit #nutritious #losefat #lunchbox #worklunch

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#3. The more you know.

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As we speak, hardcore keto combatants will be frantically searching their favourite blogs to find the recipe for this ‘fat burning’ bacon cheeseburger in an avocado bun. That’s after they leave a beleaguered comment on this post, complete with 12 uses of the word ‘insulin’ and a link to a 2011 study conducted on field mice. – – The Keto diet has credence regarding epilepsy. But for rational human beings, including level headed keto dieters, this comparison highlights some extreme and farcical concepts of the ketogenic diet regarding fat loss. – – Like any method of eating, going Keto is an option if it is rational and sustainable for an individual. But given the demise of rationality in the fitness industry, it is hardly surprising that Keto ‘conceptual fat loss exclusivities’ (which rips up 7 billion years of evidence) keep prevailing. – – The extreme beliefs that carbs inhibit fat loss and that fat can be shed in a state of ketogenic caloric surplus are both fanciful and false. In fact, they are as deluded as believing that this avocado bun won’t slide around in your hands like a BMW in the snow. Rigorous studies continuously negate direct relationship between moderate carbohydrate consumption and weight gain. – – Such pro-keto/anti-carb beliefs would therefore assume that the ‘keto burger’ (and high volume of cheese & streaky bacon) is automatically better for fat loss. Yet, by virtue of rationality, fat loss is (and always will be) about achieving an overall caloric deficit, regardless of the food consumed. Therefore, in isolation, the keto burger is more detrimental to fat loss than the regular burger. – – Both these burgers are an option, and the ketogenic diet can work for fat loss. But only if a calorie deficit is achieved. Funny that… ?. – – Reg burger: Mix 150g 5% beef, 1tsp garlic powder, 1tsp dried herbs. Oven cook for 20 mins. Add to brioche bun with 2 cooked bacon medallions, 1 fried egg, 15g low fat cheese, 1 tsp ketchup & spinach. – – #thefitnesschef #keto #diet #ketodiet #ketoweightloss #fatloss #burger #nutritioncoach #eatsmart #carbsarelife #balanceddiet #fatlossdiet #fatlosshelp #losefat #fatlosstips

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#4. It’s all about calories in, calories out.

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When frequenting online nutrition blogs in 2019, one is often confronted with ‘that’ dreaded statement: ‘A calorie is not a calorie.’ A statement issued by those who turn the most simple nutritional concept upside down in a disastrous attempt to convey an unrelated message. – – When analyzing ingredients in food it is clear that significant differences exist. For example, consumption of a cookie offers a different nutritional acquisition than that of brazil nuts. The nuts contain nutritional benefits which the cookie lacks, just like the cookie contains palatable benefits which the nuts probably lack. But there is still one simple, yet constant similarity which aligns the cookie and the nuts – they both contain 203 calories. And all calories are created equal. – – To argue otherwise is irresponsible. And whilst it is usually a constructive attempt to explain micro/macro-nutritional benefits some foods hold over others, denial of the calorie as the unit of energy it is casts the most basic nutritional equation of calories in vs calories out into an unnecessary hellfire. – – It clouds one’s beliefs concerning energy balance. In the example of fat loss, one may be led to believe that the micro-nutritional benefits attained from 203 calories of nuts will directly translate more favourably than 203 less nutritious calories from cookies. But whilst more nutrients are acquired from the nuts, the balance of energy (which defines fat loss) is the same after consumption of both calorically equal foods. – – Some foods have more nutrients than others. But that doesn’t make them universally better, it merely makes them different. And whilst many nutritional variables change from one food to the next, the calorie does not. – – Whilst their value may be higher or lower, a calorie is always a calorie, irrespective of additional nutritional variables. Or any agenda driven annihilation of basic nutrition science you read online. ? – – #thefitnesschef #calories #caloriedeficit #nutrients #brazilnuts #cookie #cookielove #snacktime #fatlosstips #losefat #balanceddiet #nutritioncoach #snack #fatlosscoach #nutritiontips #flexibledieting #caloriecounting #caloriecontrol

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#5. Labels are your friend.

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After 4 months together, it’s time for Peter to meet Monica’s parents. And so they begin their voyage of doom, frequenting delightful service stations such as Watford Gap and Slough to delay the onset of hell on earth. – – The arrival. Both parents stand side by side, more overweight than 6 months ago. Susan (mother) sports a false smile that would terrify anyone under the age of 23, whilst Donald (father)’s facial expression resembles a constipated tangerine leather satchel in the mound of trump himself. – – Small talk commences. Mother takes a handful of nuts and turns to Monica with a dismissive tone, “you’ve lost weight then…” “Yes! I feel better than ever” replies Monica. I finally understand that cals in vs cals out defines fat loss.” Mother cuts her off with “We eat healthy, don’t we Donald?” He nods his head approvingly before shoveling a handful of raisins into his palm. “See… FRUIT”. He begins to chew on plentiful mouthfuls, squelching each one with a side snarl. “And we barely eat anything” he adds. – – The evening meal begins. Peter, for the want of making a good impression, doesn’t report the piss and vomit that Hector the cat laid so kindly on his shoe. He also chooses not to report that the chicken is dry and that the broccoli looks like it’s just arrived back from a holiday in a septic tank. – – In the morning, Monica and Peter are greeted by Monica’s mother. She stands with her arms placed either side of a bowl of granola and avocado toast. “Think you know about weight loss?! Well I’ll show you two sh*ts how it’s done.” She wolfs down both items in 86 seconds. “Whala”. She wipes her mouth with her wrist and struts into the lounge muttering “calories… pah… nourish_mandyxx from Instagram says we must fuel our soul with goodness and eat intuitively.” – – Deflated, Monica sets off for home with Peter. And her parents continue their life of nutritional presumption, all the while ignorantly guessing and failing to understand their erroneous ways. ? – – #thefitnesschef #portionsize #calories #caloriedeficit #nutrients #eatsmart #caloriecontrol #fatloss #nutritioncoach #diettips #diethelp #fatlosstips #snacks #snacktime #diet #avotoast

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#6. This kind of blew my mind.

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Here we are again. Tackling irresponsible marketing propaganda which idolizes consumption of nutrients within products as a majestic means to manage or change body composition… – – Consumption of nutrients and quality ingredients is vital for optimal health and there is no doubt that the two juices on the left contain an abundance of nutrients. But they also contain calories and sugar. In fact, 1100 of the total 1350 calories derive from sugar to be exact. This accumulates to 275g of sugar overall. – – One could compare the juices on the left to zero calorie ‘diet drinks’ to accentuate the point of this post, but a comparison with original calorie/sugar inclusive drinks displays the point even better. Whilst the drinks on the right are bereft of any nutritional value, seven of the cans combine to 411 calories and 99g of sugar. That’s less than 1/3 of the calories of the ‘superfood’, ‘invigorating’ drinks on the left. In addition, nearly 1/3 of their sugar content. – – Consuming 1350 calories from the juices on the left may fit your goal. However, consuming such a proportion of calories from swiftly consumed drinks each week may reek havoc with one’s adherence to calorie control. – – Health and fitness is all encompassing and nuance is always present amid the overlapping fundamentals which ultimately form optimal health and ideal composition. But these two fundamentals (nutrient acquisition and energy balance) run separately in their translation to our anatomy. We need to realise this before we can reap the rewards of both nutritional representations by intertwining them into an inclusive, enjoyable, nutrient dense, energy controlled diet which is the result of calm, informed choice. – – Despite what well marketed products promote, no food or drink makes you slim, fat, healthy or unhealthy. But mismanagement and poor understanding of the components of overall diet and lifestyle may do as time goes by.? – – #thefitnesschef #calories #smoothie #sugar #caloriecounting #highsugar #dieting #fatloss #fatlosshelp #fatlosscoach #fruit #caloriecontrol #diettips #caloriedeficit #nutritionfacts #lowsugar

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#7. Can I get an Amen?

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A carbohydrate by basic definition is; ‘a biomolecule consisting of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.’ Though, rather unfortunately over the last 30 years or so carbohydrates have been met with revulsion, fear and persecution. Mainly by those who erroneously sympathize with the notion consumption of carbs will impact body fat more so than any other macronutrient source. – – The immediate problem with such a dubious claim is the mirky differentiation of carbohydrates as an entity within edible food. Pizza, pasta, chips, bread and pastry all fall inside the umbrella of “Don’t eat it because it’s got carbs and you’ll get fat.” Yet if we examine the exact ingredients in such food we can immediately assert that carbohydrates are not the only caloric variable present. The examples displayed on the right of this graphic represent foods which contain calories from carbs, protein and more pertinently, fat – which houses caloric density. – – Put simply, fat contains 9 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram respective of protein and carbs. Therefore the presence of protein and fat (via additional ingredients) within food will increase its overall caloric worth. Calorie balance (of any macronutrient ratio) determines body composition. Not carbs. – – The futility of the ‘carbs make you fat’ argument is compelled by the fact that fruit and vegetables are mostly made up of carbohydrates. Therefore by persecuting carbs in such generic terms, one would be inadvertently claiming that ‘broccoli makes you fat’. – – Reducing body fat has and always will be about creating a negative energy balance, irrespective of carbohydrate consumption. Cutting out carbs may create a calorie deficit, but the same applies if fat and protein are removed. And given that most foods contain all three macronutrients, it’s a much more logical and realistic idea to address overall caloric worth of food. Then you can realize that carbohydrates can feature in any dieting goal. ? – – #thefitnesschef #carbs #fatloss #fatlosshelp #dieting #fatlosstips #caloriedeficit #pizza #nutritioncoach #dieting #keto #insulin #diettips #nutritiontips #carbsarelife #nocarbs #diettips #fruit #vegetables

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#8. Rethink your definitions.

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If there was a jar where £1 was payable every time the words “I was good” or “I was bad” were uttered when discussing food intake, we would be very rich. – – The problem with such vague descriptions defining the success of our eating decisions is that they are meaningLESS regarding the meaningFUL physiological result of that decision. Whilst ‘good’ and ‘bad’ are broad terms of moral direction, our biological system cannot relate to them. – – Good for what? Is it not that one simply consumed food including micronutrients, fibre and a balance of macronutrients, thus supporting function and satiety? But what if such consumption exceeded one’s caloric limit regarding their desired composition, is it still good? – – Bad for what? Is it not that one simply consumed food bereft of micronutrients which may be less likely to satiate them? But what if such consumption supports to one’s caloric limit regarding their desired composition? What if nutrients have already been attained? Is it still bad? – – The long term key to taking control of one’s dietary outcomes is to understand that there is no good or bad, only difference. And our understanding of nutritional difference is what enables us to find a balance that support all aspects of our diet. Science determines nutritional outcomes. Not morality. – – Instead of being good or bad each time you consume food, understanding the food you consume within the context of your individual dietary goals will allow you to find this balance. You can understand that micronutrients are required for overall health, caloric management is needed for desired composition, and enjoyment is a necessity for adhering to any type of eating strategy or dietary transition. Balancing these dietary aspects via a non rigid variety of different food is the key to achieving all of the above. – – Each individual episode of eating is a small piece of the jigsaw. No matter what is consumed in each episode, it can fit the overall goal if you put the other pieces together around it. ? – – #calories #caloriedeficit #micronutrients #nutrients #fatloss #thefitnesschef #fatlosstips #eatsmart #diettips #snacktime #optimalhealth #dieting

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#9. Carbs can’t tell time.

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Whilst the mythical onslaught on those carbohydrates who like to stay up late has been circling for years, I doubt they were read in the journal of nutrition. Or any scientific journal for that matter. – – For years this ‘no carbs at night’ metabolic artifice has plagued us to the point where people trying to lose fat still believe in it’s validity. It’s concept was probably born out of the fact that our metabolism slows down as we may move less in evenings. And obviously sleep. – – But according to a study published by the obesity journal, a test group that ate most daily carbohydrates at dinner, compared to those who spread them out during the day, actually showed greater losses in total body weight, body fat and waist circumference. This study is a small sample, but proof that this fallacy is mythical. – – To summarize another study published in the Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease Journal, it found that eating carbs at night “may prevent midday hunger, better support weight loss and improve metabolic outcomes over conventional weight loss diets”. The study looked at macronutrient distribution throughout the day and its impact on hunger controlling hormones such as ghrelin, leptin and adiponectin. Subjects who consumed more carbs at night reported greater satiety. These are just two studies of course. – – Important considerations: Body composition is determined by total energy in vs energy out, regardless of food/nutrient type or time of day consumed. By eliminating carbs at night to lose fat, you are simply over complicating a way to reduce overall calorie intake. Our metabolism does not operate on a chronological timer, instead it operates when it is required to do so. – – It’s now after 6pm (in the U.K.). If you want carbohydrates and they fit your goal and enjoyment, eat them. ? – – #thefitnesschef #carbs #carbsafterdark #fatloss #nutritioncoach #nocarbs #fatlosstips #eatsmart #caloriedeficit #caloriecounting #dieting #nutritiontips #balanceddiet #fatlosscoach #fatlosshelp #carbsarelife

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#10. Eat whichever pleases you.

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Empty (noun) means: “containing nothing, not fulfilled or occupied” – – Therefore, according to the notoriously popular label of ‘empty calories’ preached by many a ‘pseudo-nutritionists’ the world over, these slices of toast and jam contain nothing but thin air. Yet this is categorically untrue because they still contain macronutrients/calories. And whilst such jargon adoring nutritional dust mites actually intend to shed light on minimal micronutrient presence within such foods, they would be better placed to just f*cking say that. Because all food has value, including its enjoyment. – – Good (noun) means: “morally right, righteousness” – – Therefore, attributing a label of ‘being good (or bad) when eating food is to believe that it is a moral act of right or wrong. But consumption of food involves a metabolic process answerable only to science. It is not an audition for the Nobel Peace Prize. And even if it was, the same metabolic events would still occur anyway. To claim that 550 calories of nutrient dense food is better for fat loss than 285 calories of less nutrients dense food ‘because it is more likely to fill you up’ is very irresponsible. – – The nutritional breakdown within different foods can be very different. Appreciation of this difference is more helpful than succumbing to abject headline grabbing jargon which has no essential meaning. – – This peanut butter toast contains relatively high nutrients, the jam toast x2 less so. The former contains 550 calories, the latter 285. Both are legitimate eating options that are not good or bad, nor empty or full. Calorie intake directly relates to body composition, nutrients do not. Nutrient intake directly relates to function, calories do not. – – To find peace, we need to remove meaningless nutritional labels from our vocabulary and replace them with relatable facts. No food is good or bad, it is merely different. And by realizing this, we can finally nourish our nutritional education properly. ? – – #thefitnesschef #nutrients #emptycalories #caloriedeficit #eatsmart #diettips #fatlosstips #healthyfood #pbtoast #peanutbutter #toast #snack #nutritionist #diet #nutritious #macros #fatlosscoach

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#11. Don’t be fooled.

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Clean eating trends may be in slight decline, but they still exists to distort many relationships with food in 2019. Because no food cleanses you as you consume it. And no food rubs dirt on your face as you enjoy it. – – Over the years, many health themed recipe books promise their consumer a life of being ‘lean and healthy’ if they primarily use their recipes. – – Such recipes may be an inspiring collection of palatable, nutritious food, but such content is still bereft of important explanations around basic nutritional foundations. For example: calorie/macronutrient relevance. Both being barometers that can improve one’s understanding of compositional aspects of their diet. But instead, people are challenged to micro-nutritional perfection. – – We need to evaluate the food we eat objectively, despite how it is presented to us. Here we have one raw cacao slice (a ‘healthy substitute’ for a chocolate bar), made by a celebrity influencer vs three mainstream chocolate bars. Whilst there may be more micronutrients, fibre and naturally occurring ingredients in the single raw slice, the calories are virtually equal to that of 3 chocolate bars. Yet one is unconditionally idolised whilst the others demonised and confined to guilt should such consumption occur. – – Consuming quality food is definitely important for overall health. It may well correlate with fat loss, but it does not define it. Quantity of calories consumed in relation to how much energy expended does. Regardless of food type. – – Regular consumption of 3 chocolate bars in one sitting will unlikely support nutrient acquisition or composition. But if there is no understanding of relevant nutritional cores, regular consumption of nutrient dense “raw, healthy, superfood, nourish the soul, unprocessed, detoxifying, paleo, vegan, cleansing, gluten free” foods may not aid composition either. – – And certain celebrities may be more helpful to their tribe by discussing nutritional balance. That way the consumer may stop failing in their quest to emulate their idol’s genetically gifted physique by mere means of an array of ‘clean’ recipes – when basic education is what is required to truly progress.?

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#12. The hamster wheel: illustrated.

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When Jack (Robert De Niro) welcomed Gaylord Focker (Ben Stiller) to his circle of trust in the 2001 smash hit ‘Meet The Parents’, he did so out of protection of his daughter, but also because he was a maniac. In fact, it wouldn’t be off the mark to conclude that Jack’s so called circle of trust is akin to the proverbial yo-yo dieting circle of hell. Naturally, both were/are hellish to endure, both didn’t/don’t work and both were/are unsustainable. – – Jack’s means to find out about Greg were unnecessary and extreme in the same way that an extravagant dismantling of one’s diet fails to identify the main cause of an individual’s weight problem. Furthermore, the futility of such extreme dieting methods can be exacerbated by their procedural fallacy. Juicing, cleanses, meal replacements and removal of food groups come with glorious claims, but dismal long term results. – – There is no urgency for a new diet – because you already have one. Instead of disregarding entire dietary habits, one must realise what the problem is, why it has occurred and how it can be resolved. Patience, consistency and rationality must be considered. In Layman’s terms; you’re overweight because you eat too many calories for the amount you move. You need to consume fewer calories and move more. You need to be patient and be able to adhere to a sustainable, consistent calorie deficit for a considerable length of time. – – In desperate compulsion for fat loss, one must understand simplicity and forgo extremity. Once this is appreciated, there can be recognition that only minor adjustments to existing diet and movement are required to satisfy progress. – – The sooner we realise that health, fitness (and fat loss) is not about perfection, six packs, narcissism, restriction and the proverbial Everest, the sooner we will get to the core of our problems, understand them better and gather momentum. This will enable us all to achieve new heights each day. And these will last for the rest of our lives ?. – – #thefitnesschef #fatloss #diet #dieting #fatlosstips #juicing #detox #nutritioncoach #caloriedeficit #diettips #losefat #losebellyfat #dietingsucks #caloriedeficit #eatsmart #newdiet

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Some of those completely blew my mind!

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Photographer and His Wife Restore Life to a Dead Ecosystem by Planting 4 Million Trees

Earth Day has come and gone, but as humans, we should consider doing something for our environment more than once a year. Of all the myriads ecological disasters befalling us, deforestation is one of the biggest issues we face. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations states that the growth of the global population from 7.6 billion to 10 billion in 2050 (estimated) will vastly effect how we use our land, likely including further deforestation:

“Land-use changes result in a loss of valuable habitats, land degradation, soil erosion, a decrease in clean water and the release of carbon into the atmosphere. How to increase agricultural production and improve food security without reducing forest area is one of the great challenges of our times.”

So what can we do? As we continue to expand into forested areas, deforestation can seem overwhelming.

Photo Credit: Instituto Terra

But not to Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado and his wife Lélia. Two decades ago, he took over the land he grew up on and was devastated by what he saw: deforestation at its most severe. The land no longer held the tropical paradise he remembered. Rather, it was desolate, and all the wildlife from his youth was gone.

Over the last 20 years, he and his family made it a mission to plant one tree at a time to restore his once beautiful homeland. The results are incredible.

An aerial view of the land.

Photo Credit: Instituto Terra

In an interview with The Guardian, Salgado said:

“The land was as sick as I was – everything was destroyed. Only about 0.5% of the land was covered in trees. Then my wife had a fabulous idea to replant this forest. And when we began to do that, then all the insects and birds and fish returned and, thanks to this increase of the trees I, too, was reborn – this was the most important moment.”

In April of 1998, they started an organization called Instituto Terra or “Earth Institute” and raised enough funds to plant 4 million saplings native to that land and surrounding areas.

Photo Credit: Instituto Terra

“Perhaps we have a solution,” Salgado said. “There is a single being which can transform CO2 to oxygen, which is the tree. We need to replant the forest. You need forest with native trees, and you need to gather the seeds in the same region you plant them or the serpents and the termites won’t come. And if you plant forests that don’t belong, the animals don’t come there and the forest is silent.”

The results of his restorative efforts are extremely impressive: 172 species of birds have returned, 33 kinds of mammals, nearly 300 species of plants, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. His institute managed to rebuild an entire ecosystem from literally the ground up.

It just goes to show, if you have passion and commitment, you can achieve anything. And when it comes to our environment, that is priceless. I’ll give Salgado the last word:

“We need to listen to the words of the people on the land. Nature is the earth and it is other beings and if we don’t have some kind of spiritual return to our planet, I fear that we will be compromised.”

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Smoking Psychedelic Toad “Milk” May Help Alleviate Your Depression

Wait, though – don’t get your toad-catching gear on just yet, because there’s more you ought to know before milking a toad and toking up.

That’s a sentence I never expected to type, but here we are.

The psychoactive secretion 5-MeO-DMT oozes from the glands of the Bufo alvarius – the Colorado river toad. The psychedelic tryptamine is related to the more famous compound DMT, which is found in a mind-altering brew called ayahuasca.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

When dried and smoked, the ooze generates an experience during which (supposedly) the ego is completely obliterated and mystical insights can be accessed – it’s been used at alternative healing retreats and by underground therapists to treat a range of emotional and psychological disorders, including depression.

Mainstream science wanted to know whether there was anything to the claims, so they gathered 42 study participants and gave them toad milk to smoke.

The results, published in Psychopharmacology, claim the participants average depression ratings were down 18% after one day, and that anxiety and stress were also reduced – by 39% and 27% respectively.

The follow-up analysis took place 4 weeks later, and found that depression ratings had dropped to 68%, anxiety to 56%, and stress to 48%.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

Scientists think that the effects could be caused by an increase in neurogenesis, since 5-MeO-DMT had previously been found to stimulate neuronal growth and development. Alternatively, it could help alleviate symptoms by binding to the brain’s sigma-1 receptors, which can reduce inflammation.

A Johns Hopkins study props up this one, as well – they found that 80% of people who use 5-MeO-DMT report a reduction in both depression and anxiety.

There’s a lot to consider moving forward – the exploitation of the toad population, for one – but the fact that the 5-MeO-DMT is easily copied in a lab should go a long way toward curbing any black market trading.

It sounds like this could be a healthy, effective alternative to using pharmaceuticals to treat mental health issues, so hopefully the research continues!

Plus…toad milk.

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8 Awesome Facts That’ll Make You Seem Like The Smartest Person in the Room

I think it’s pretty important to learn something new every day. It makes you a better-rounded person, and also makes you a much better partner in a conversation.

So, enjoy these 8 facts that’ll make you feel smarter right away!

1. Hmmmm

Photo Credit: did you know?

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2. Obese pharaohs

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3. Gay griffons

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4. I notice this all the time

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5. Just in case

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6. Oh, great!

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7. Xennial

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8. Panic in the streets

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Say it again, “I did not know that!”

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Scientists Just Discovered a New Species of Human

The human family tree just grew another branch! Scientists are calling it Homo luzonensis, and it was discovered in a cave in the Philippines.

Image Credit: Callao Cave Archaeology Project

A 67,000-year-old thigh bone was discovered in the same system of caves back in 2007, which was unexpected because the island was cut off from the mainland during the last Ice Age. At the time, it was impossible to tell whether the bone came from a Homo sapien who had somehow made their way there, from another known species like Homo florensiensis, or something entirely new.

Now that 12 more fossils from at least three individuals . – two adults and a juvenile – have been found in the same cave, scientists are able to say for sure that they’re from a previously unknown species of early human. The remains share some similarities with Australopithecus aferensis, which died out over 2 million years ago, and others with Homo sapiens and even Homo erectus.

Image Credit: Callao Cave Archaeology Project

They also have features particular to them alone, such as small molars, that have never been documented before now.

Since stone tools and cut bones had also been found in the cave system, the discovery of human ancestors wasn’t a surprise, says Professor Philip Piper.

“We know hominids have been on Luzon for at least 700,000 years. We don’t know what sort of hominid.”

Because of the difficulty in extracting DNA from remains that have been in tropical environments and the low quantity of bones, we might never know for sure how they got there, whether they evolved from Homo erectus or a different common ancestor, or how they went extinct.

Researchers continue to hope that more digging might bring them more fossils, and that at least some of those questions could be answered.

Until then, welcome to the family, Homo luzonensis. We’re not perfect, but we’ve got great food.

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Washington May Become First State to Legalize “Human Composting”

It’s an age-old question that you’ve most likely thought about at one time or another: what will happen to your body after you die? Do you want to be buried in a cemetery? Cremated and spread into the ocean?

Photo Credit: Max Pixel

In what would be a historic move, it looks like Washington may be the first state to offer ‘human composting’ as an option after residents pass away. The method transforms human remains into soil, takes four to seven weeks to complete, and results in roughly a cubic yard of…well, compost.

Washington’s state legislature already passed a bill allowing human composting, and now it’s up to Governor Jay Inslee to sign the bill into law. If he does, the law will take effect in May 2020.

Here’s how it works: bodies are placed into large, cylindrical tubes filled with wood chips, alfalfa, and straw. A controlled amount of oxygen helps to speed up the decomposition, and after 4-7 weeks the transformation is complete. Family and friends can keep the soil in urns or do whatever they see fit with the remains.

Back to Earth: Washington set to allow 'human composting': https://www.kspr.com/content/news/Back-to-Earth-Washington-set-to-allow-human-composting-508906941.html

Posted by KSPR News on Monday, April 22, 2019

The process has been called an eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial and cremation, which releases 600 million pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year.

It will be interesting to see what states follow Washington’s lead if the bill is signed into law.

Do you have thoughts on this matter? Share them in the comments below!

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This Passenger’s Conversation with Jet Blue Airline Is Absolutely Terrifying

Are you the type of person who believes in conspiracy theories and doesn’t trust 90% of what the government says? Then you may not want to read about this conversation between airline passenger MacKenzie Fegan and Jet Blue Airlines.

She went to the airport and was in line to board her flight, ready with her boarding pass in hand. But it turned out she didn’t need it – all she had to do was look into camera. No one asked her for her pass. No one asked her if she wanted to opt out or in to whatever was going on, and MacKenzie went along, because that’s what we do when we’ve been trained to keep the line moving and people are waiting.

She started to think about it later, though, and sent the company a tweet.

The ensuing thread should make each and every one of us wonder what’s ours, what can the government claim without asking, and how will things like our images be used without our consent.

Not that there’s anything we can do about it, apparently, but…the more you know?

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15 Scienctifically Verified Benefits of Marijuana

More and more states across the United States are toying with the idea of legalizing medicinal and/or recreational use of marijuana. You’ve probably seen it on the news, and might even be an occasional pot smoker yourself (a surprisingly large number of American adults have used or currently use marijuana).

In case you’re among the population that has had no exposure to it, you might be curious as to what exactly the medical benefits of the devil’s lettuce might be. Below are 15 benefits backed up by science, so take a read through (but of course consult a doctor before making any decisions).

But also, you’re a free person – you can do what you want and I’ll be minding my own business.

#1. Protect the brain from concussions and trauma.

Image Credit: Pixabay

A Harvard professor recently told NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that players should not be tested or fined for using marijuana, because the plant could have some ability to protect their battered brains.

“Already, many doctors and researchers believe that marijuana has incredibly powerful neuroprotective properties, an understanding based on both laboratory and clinical data.”

At least one similar study found that patients who had used marijuana were less likely to die from traumatic brain injuries.

#2. Chronic pain management.

Image Credit: Pixabay

This is the most common reason people request and are prescribed medical marijuana, and scientists agree there is definitive evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment for chronic pain.

#3. Halt the spread of cancer (maybe).

Image Credit: Pixabay

Research out of California’s Pacific Medical Center reported that CBD could help cancer from spreading, and other studies on aggressive brain tumors show that THC and CBD can, at the right dosages, shrink tumors. There are enough studies and positive correlations to warrant more research, which at the moment is preliminary.

#4. Ease MS symptoms.

Image Credit: Pixabay

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal claims that marijuana could ease painful symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. It looked at the painful muscle contractions experienced by 30 patients who did not respond to other treatments.

#5. Treating glaucoma.

Image Credit: Pixabay

The treatment and prevention of glaucoma, which increases pressure in the eyeball and damages the optic nerve, is one of the most common reasons doctors prescribe marijuana. The drug works to decrease pressure inside the eye, according to the National Eye Institute.

“Studies in the early 1970s showed that marijuana, when smoked, lowered intraocular pressure in people with normal pressure and those with glaucoma.”

It’s not good as a long term treatment right now, though researchers hope that perhaps a drug derived from marijuana could potentially last longer.

#6. Decrease anxiety.

Image Credit: Pixabay

Though research confirms that using cannabis can ahave a relaxing effect, it turns out that smoking too much actually has the opposite effect. Scientists have found what they term the “Goldilocks” zone, and when achieved, usage reduces stress and anxiety.

#7. Ease IBS symptoms.

Image Credit: Pixabay

Inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s, and ulcerative colitis can be treated with marijuana, according to multiple studies.

University of Nottingham researchers found that the chemicals in marijuana, including THC and cannabidiol, interact with the body’s cells that play an integral role in gut and immune function.

#8. Spur creativity.

Image Credit: Pixabay

People’s short-term memories tend to suffer when they’re stoned, but they actually get better at coming up with new ideas – so if you’re stuck creatively, sparking up just might work.

Research also finds that people’s ability to come up with different words actually increases while using marijuana.

#9. Decrease chances of obesity and sugar addiction.

Image Credit: Pixabay

Pot smokers are skinnier than the average person, along with having healthier metabolisms and more measured reactions to sugars – even when they do consume more calories.

The results come from a study of more than 4500 Americans, 579 of whom were regular pot smokers and 2000 who had, at some point, partook.

#10. Help veterans and others suffering from PTSD.

Image Credit: Pixabay

Colorado funded research into marijuana’s potential for people with PTSD and, as a result, cannabinoids have been approved in several states for the treatment of PTSD.

This is currently the number one reason people get a license for medical marijuana.

#11. Reducing or eliminating epileptic seizures.

Image Credit: Pixabay

People with treatment-resistant epilepsy seem to get relief from cannabidiol (CBD), with a number of people also reporting that the derivative helped their epileptic children.

#12. Slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

Image Credit: Pixabay

A study out of the Scripps Research Institute concludes that marijuana may be able to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, and at least one previous study agrees.

#13. Alleviate discomfort due to arthritis.

Image Credit: Pixabay

Doctors and scientists feel certain that marijuana alleviates pain, reduces inflammation, and promotes sleep, all of which are symptoms that plague rheumatoid arthritis patients.

#14. Soothe Parkinson’s tremors.

Image Credit: Pixabay

Research out of Israel shows that smoking marijuana results in a significant reduction in pain and tremors in Parkinson’s patients – it also improved fine motor skills among those same patients.

#15. Improving lung capacity.

Image Credit: Pixabay

It might seem counterintuitive, but there’s a fair amount of evidence that marijuana doesn’t harm your lungs – and that it may do the opposite. Research looked at the risk factors of heart disease and tested the lung function of over 5,000 young adults over the course of 20 years, and while cigarette smokers lost lung function over time, pot smokers actually showed an increase.

They’ve admitted it’s possible that the increase in function comes from taking deep breaths while inhaling the drug and not from any chemical.

It’s easy to see why so many states are jumping on the bandwagon in an effort to provide the best medical care to their constituents.

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Biology Class Tests the Fish in Their Sushi, with Unsettling Results

Fair warning: if you’re a seafood lover who regularly purchases fish from the store or goes out for sushi, proceed with caution. There are some scientific results below that are, at best, upsetting.

At worst? You might vomit in your mouth.

It all began when biology professor Dr. Jennifer McDonald was looking for a way to bring a little excitement to her senior molecular biology course. So she sent them to sushi restaurants and grocery stores and told them to bring samples of their fish back to the lab so they could extract the DNA and determine whether the DNA matched the label.

Image Credit: Twitter

They tested 13 samples and 9 had good enough DNA sequences to determine their species.

Of those 9? Only 2 were labeled correctly.

Yeah. And that’s not the worst part.

It’s been well documented over the past decade that fish mislabelling is prolific all over the global supply chain – it’s also illegal and results in fines (when detected). According to McDonald, about 50% of fish is believed to be labelled incorrectly (whether intentionally or not), with some species like red snapper and white tuna more likely to be mislabelled than others.

Not only is it unethical to sell people fish that is not the fish they’re expecting, it can also result in health issues (a common substitute for white tuna is escolar, which can cause gastrointestinal distress) and/or allergic reactions (shellfish is one of the more common – and more deadly – food allergies).

So Dr. McDonald wasn’t shocked at the findings.

At least, not until this happened.

Yeah.

Dr. McDonald doesn’t plan to stop eating fish or sushi, and she doesn’t think you should, either – just make sure to go to restaurants where you feel confident in their fish suppliers and ask questions when something doesn’t look, feel, or taste right.

Which might be easier said than done, although the fact that sushi is so delicious should help buck you up.

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