Clearly, the medical bureaucracies within Big Government have not been worthy of Americans' trust. Nor has Big Pharma, which has proven itself to be far more motivated by gargantuan profits than safeguarding human lives
"Make America Healthy Again," the new Trump administration agenda inspired and led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., couldn't be more vital – indeed, crucial – considering the alarming decline in Americans' health. Consider:
* The U.S. is in the grip of a full-blown obesity epidemic, with well over 200 million Americans – including millions of children – being overweight or obese. According to the CDC, over 40% of adults in the United States are clinically obese, in stark contrast with the 1950s, when approximately 10% of U.S. adults were obese.
* The number of American children and adults with autism spectrum disorders has exploded, rising by 175% over just the last decade. One out of every 36 children in the U.S. has been diagnosed with autism, up from 1 in 44 as recently as 2021. In contrast, during the 1950s, autism was virtually nonexistent, afflicting between 0.01% and 0.05% of Americans born during that decade.
* Early-onset cancer cases rose almost 80% over the last three decades and show no signs of slowing down. One major 2022 study reveals the incidence of early-onset cancers – including breast, colon, esophagus, kidney, liver and pancreas – has been dramatically increasing since around 1990.
* A staggering 38 million Americans are suffering from diabetes, a number expected to increase to almost 55 million in the next five years. During the late 1950s, the prevalence of diabetes in the U.S. was estimated to be 9 cases per 1,000 people, for a total of 1 million cases.
What's going on? Why is the health of Americans degrading so radically? With the rapid growth of knowledge and technology, including medical technology, one might expect the exact opposite to be the case – that everyone's health would be ever improving.
He's promised to put Americans on Mars and end the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
But Donald Trump's most impactful move could be to spearhead the world's first cancer vaccine.
This week, amid a flurry of executive orders, the new president announced a $500billion venture he described as the 'largest AI infrastructure project in history.'
The White House says Project Stargate will create tens of thousands of new jobs and usher in a new technological revolution.
Larry Ellison, chief technology officer at computer software company Oracle, said the technology could use simple blood tests to scan for tiny tumor cells, which neither humans nor current lab tests can detect.
This way, patients with the earliest forms of the disease could be identified and treated before the cancer spreads.
He continued: 'Then beyond that, once we gene sequence that cancer tumor you can then vaccinate that person, design a vaccine for every individual person to vaccinate them against that cancer and you can make that mRNA vaccine robotically using AI in about 48 hours.'
He described curing cancers as 'the promise of the future.' Later in the press conference, Sam Altman, the boss of OpenAI which created ChatGPT, said AI will lead to the cure of diseases 'at an unprecedented rate.'
Larry Ellison, chief technology officer at computer software company Oracle, spoke about his company's potential cancer vaccine Tuesday at a White House gathering with President Donald Trump
Mr. Ellison said a potential personalized cancer vaccine is 'the promise of AI and the promise of the future'
Altman said: 'We will be amazed at how quickly we're curing this cancer and that one and heart disease and what this will do for the ability to deliver very high quality healthcare... to cure the diseases at a rapid rapid rate.
'I think [this technology] will be among the most important things.'
Similar experimental mRNA cancer vaccines have been in development since the technology was advanced during the Covid pandemic.
mRNA vaccines were thrust into the public sphere when Trump established Operation Warp Speed, a campaign to facilitate and accelerate the development and distribution of Covid-19 vaccines and treatments.
Trump faced anger from his base over his involvement in the mRNA Covid vaccines, which his administration bankrolled, and many Republicans and Trump supporters were resistant to the shots.
In mRNA cancer vaccines, scientists take a sample from a cancer patient's tumor and analyze its genetic code - every tumor is genetically different, which means no two cancer vaccines are the same.
They then use part of this, called RNA, to develop a bespoke vaccine for the patient in a lab. When injected, the shot will deliver the instructions for the body's cells to produce a harmless part of the tumor, provoking a response from the immune system.
This process trains the immune system to spot this element of the cancer in the future providing protection against the disease.
Nearly half of Americans would support Donald Trump's plan to abolish Daylight Saving Time, an exclusive DailyMail.com poll has revealed.
The survey by J.L Partners found that 48 percent of respondents would strongly support or somewhat support eliminating the twice-yearly changing of the clocks.
For comparison, only 19 percent said they would oppose dumping the practice, while 33 percent said they were neutral or had no opinion.
Trump has suggested he will 'eliminate' the practice during his second term, blasting it as 'inconvenient, and very costly to our nation'.
Only two US states don't observe DST: Arizona and Hawaii. Both opted out, arguing in part that their consistent sunrise and sunset times made it unnecessary.
DST was first introduced in 1918 so that there was more daylight in the evening in a bid to improve workforce productivity.
The clocks go forward by one hour at 1am the second Sunday in March and back one hour at 2am on the first Sunday in November.
But a growing body of evidence shows DST is linked to increased heart attacks and strokes, insomnia, mental health issues, suicides, car accidents and even cancer.https://flo.uri.sh/story/2826648/embed
Losing an hour of sleep when the clocks move forward results in surges in inflammation, stress hormones and exhaustion, raising the risk of suffering from numerous health conditions.
A study that tracked hospital admissions across the state of Michigan found that those for heart attacks rose 24 percent on the Monday following the switch to DST.
And another study from Finland found the overall risk of stroke surged eight percent over the first two days after the clocks changed.
Deaths from road accidents also increase. Studies have found a six percent rise in fatal collisions following the clock change.
There is also limited evidence that DST causes an uptick in suicidal behaviors and increased mortality in the days after shifting the clocks.
The DailyMail.com poll was conducted by J.L Partners and involved a representative sample of 1,009 Americans.
It was carried out between January 10 and 12 this year, with voters interviewed for over 15 minutes on a range of topics after being recruited online.
Results also showed that, by age group, over-65s were most likely to support the shift, with 54 percent backing dumping DST compared to 38 percent of 18 to 29-year-olds
By political party, 54 percent of Republicans were estimated to back the policy compared to 45 percent of Democrats.
Many find the clocks springing ahead one hour in March most disruptive, and several days to a week to adjust their sleeping schedule.
During this time, they may go to bed later and wake up earlier than usual, which causes sleep deprivation — and raises the risk of complications.
DST has also always made less sense in southern states because their sunlight is reasonably consistent all year round.
The time change was implemented nationally in the US in 1918 during the First World War as an effort to save an hour's worth of fuel each day.
It was repealed in 1919, but then brought back in 1942 when the US entered the Second World War.
Some states and cities continued to follow it twice yearly afterward resulting in what was known as the 'chaos of clocks', before the Uniform Time Act was passed in 1966 standardizing DST nationwide.
Today, 48 of the 50 states in the US follow the clock change — excluding Arizona and Hawaii where sunrise and sunset are more constant throughout the year.
Globally, 61 countries and territories use DST — including the UK and many US allies in Europe.
Anyone with any level of self-awareness can attest to feeling something very unique when they are in the presence of a horse. It is no wonder as they are also very special and significant to God as we can see horses mentioned in the Bible over 150 times. In scripture they are used both literally and figuratively. We read about how David formed an actual chariot calvary of 100 horses and we also see equine used as a comparative and metaphorical reminder of the immense strength of God. Then of course the chilling accounts of the Four Horsemen and all that they and their horses signify in prophecy.
Fast forward to the days of our reliance on them as America was progressing in efficiency and modernity. We had nearly become one with them, finding a dependence for travel and farming, for mail delivery...even as trustworthy companions in combat and of course so much more. Anyone with a love for history and horses can see their value and espouse a continued appreciation...holding them in high regard.
Today, you can just do a search for horse therapy experiences and some of the most beautiful sites you will ever see will pop up hoping you will make it a priority to attend their equine retreats and experiential workshops. Studies do show how spending time with the horse kind can add to one's life in so many different ways. Therapies include and are not limited to helping the disabled, helping those dealing with various levels of autism, presented as necessary distractions for cancer patients, and provides much needed healing for our veterans who are plagued with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Overall, they bring a sense of peace and calm and help focus us in the moment which in itself is important and healing. In a day where there are so many distractions, crazy and overwhelming news, and the pace of life is just way too fast...being with a horse can be centering and life giving. For those of us grounded in our faith and with having an understanding of the awesome creativity of God, it makes sense that maybe what we are sensing in their presence is something spiritual and directly related to our Creator...the true Healer.
Here is an interesting column from WithersforWarriors...
studies suggest:
In the evolving landscape of therapeutic practices, equine therapy emerges as a compelling modality that bridges the ancient bond between humans and horses with contemporary healing methodologies. At its core, equine therapy encompasses a range of treatments involving interactions with horses to promote physical, emotional, and mental health benefits in people. This form of therapy is not new; historically, the therapeutic value of horses has been recognized for centuries, with documented instances of horse-assisted activities dating back to the classical civilizations of Greece. Yet, it is the scientific underpinning and systematic application in modern therapeutic contexts that lend equine therapy its current significance and burgeoning interest among practitioners and patients alike.
Equine therapy is predicated on the premise that interactions with horses can lead to significant psychological and physiological benefits. Horses, with their unique sensitivity to human emotions and non-verbal cues, provide immediate feedback to the actions and emotions of their human counterparts, creating a dynamic platform for therapy. This interaction facilitates a variety of therapeutic goals, including the improvement of individuals’ emotional regulation, enhancement of social skills, and the strengthening of motor skills.
Today we delve into the scientific rationale that supports equine therapy as a legitimate and effective therapeutic approach. It aims to uncover the theoretical foundations that explain how and why equine therapy works, supported by empirical evidence from research studies and practical observations. By examining the psychological theories and physiological mechanisms at play, as well as reviewing the modalities of equine therapy and their specific applications, we provide a comprehensive overview of the science behind equine therapy.
The significance of exploring the science behind equine therapy lies not only in validating its effectiveness but also in understanding the nuances that make it a unique and powerful tool in mental health treatment and rehabilitation. As the demand for holistic and integrative therapeutic practices grows, equine therapy stands out as a modality that offers a holistic approach to healing, encompassing the physical, emotional, and psychological dimensions of well-being. Through this exploration,we aim to contribute to the broader dialogue on therapeutic innovation and the future of mental health treatment, underscoring the indispensable role of equine therapy in the therapeutic landscape.
Theoretical Foundations of Equine Therapy
The effectiveness of equine therapy, though empirically evident in many instances, is grounded in a complex interplay of psychological theories and physiological principles. Understanding these foundational theories is essential for grasping why equine therapy has emerged as a viable and beneficial therapeutic modality.
Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework of equine therapy is rooted in the biopsychosocial model of health, which posits that biological, psychological, and social factors all play a significant role in human health and disease. Equine therapy, by integrating interactions with horses into therapeutic practices, leverages these multifaceted dimensions to promote healing and well-being. The presence of horses in therapy sessions offers a unique combination of biofeedback mechanisms and psychological engagement that is distinct from traditional therapy environments.
Psychological Theories
Attachment Theory: Attachment theory suggests that the quality of relationships in early childhood significantly influences an individual’s emotional health. Horses can act as “transitional objects,” facilitating emotional connections and providing a sense of security and comfort to individuals. The non-judgmental nature of horses, combined with their responsiveness to human behavior, creates a safe space for individuals to explore attachment behaviors and emotional responses.
Biofeedback Theory: This theory involves the process of gaining awareness and control over physiological functions through the use of immediate feedback. Horses naturally respond to human emotions and physical states, providing instant feedback to the handler or rider. This interaction can help individuals become more attuned to their emotional and physiological states, facilitating self-regulation and emotional control.
Cognitive-Behavioral Theories: Cognitive-behavioral theories focus on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Equine therapy can be structured to challenge negative thought patterns, provide opportunities for correcting cognitive distortions, and develop more adaptive behaviors and coping strategies. The experiential learning aspect of equine therapy, where participants engage in tasks with horses, can reinforce positive behavioral and cognitive changes.
Physiological Perspectives
The interaction with horses also has a direct impact on human physiology, which can be beneficial in therapy. Key physiological effects include:
Stress Reduction: Interacting with horses has been shown to lower levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, and increase levels of positive neurochemicals, such as endorphins and oxytocin, which are associated with stress relief and feelings of well-being.
Sensory Stimulation: The physical interaction with horses, including grooming, petting, and riding, provides sensory input that can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensory integration issues, such as those on the autism spectrum. This sensory input can help in regulating the sensory system and promoting calmness and focus.
Hormone Regulation: The presence of horses and the bond formed through therapeutic activities can stimulate the production of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” which plays a role in social bonding and emotional regulation.
The theoretical foundations of equine therapy provide a multifaceted understanding of its effectiveness. By incorporating elements from attachment theory, biofeedback, and cognitive-behavioral principles, along with recognizing the physiological impacts of human-animal interactions, equine therapy offers a rich, integrative approach to treatment. This complex theoretical base not only supports the efficacy of equine therapy but also underscores its potential as a therapeutic tool in addressing a wide range of psychological and physiological issues.
Modalities of Equine Therapy
Equine therapy encompasses several distinct modalities, each designed to leverage the unique benefits of human-horse interaction to meet various therapeutic goals. These modalities cater to different needs, ranging from mental health support to educational and developmental benefits, and even physical rehabilitation. Understanding the specific approaches within equine therapy helps to appreciate its versatility and the broad spectrum of conditions it can address.READ MORE>>>>
For our veterans, I found this promising snippet from dvnf.org:
A combination of evidence-based practices and theories are utilized in conjunction with the therapy horse as means of helping our nation’s heroes overcome their invisible wounds in StableStrides’ Equine Assisted Therapy program. Equine Assisted Therapy assists veterans with post-traumatic stress symptoms by processing and facilitating the reconnection between thoughts and feelings and, more specifically, learning to approach rather than avoid emotions and uncomfortable situations. This therapeutic process uses experiential learning and is solutions-focused meaning veterans are challenged to find solutions to problems in a timely and effective manner using the horse as a medium; learning is then applied and translated into everyday life. Veterans develop an awareness of their impact on the environment and make adjustments to produce the desired outcome.
After only his third Equine Assisted Therapy session at StableStrides, one veteran felt compelled to let go of a very heavy reminder from his past. For over 10 years this veteran had kept a large mangled piece of metal as a reminder. The piece of mangled mental was a broken piston from a vehicle that was used as an I.E.D. in Iraq…and an attack in which he was in charge of cleaning up the aftermath. After learning how horses are able to let go of the past and live in the present, this veteran decided he too was ready to live in the present and decided to leave the mangled metal reminder he’d carried for so long with the StableStrides team for good. SOURCE
In closing out this segment of Your Health Today...here are three short videos that show this emotionally moving therapy, in action....
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUYUtVNCYl0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRU4N3pkEAg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiCX9Oc27fU
We hope you enjoyed this Your Health Today segment from The Plain Truth dot com. It is one of our top missions to encourage everyone to learn God's way of healing and to follow His path to health and wellbeing; this way your life and your families' lives will be blessed!
If any of our readership has had any experiences with horse therapy, we invite you to share in the comments section.
The Castor-Oil plant is in the Book of Jonah 4:6-10: "Now the LORD God appointed a plant and made it come up over Jonah, that it might be a shade over his head, to save him from his discomfort…"
Castor Oil Benefits for Skin, Hair, Constipation and More
For centuries, at the first sign of illness, many parents and grandparents would immediately turn to giving their children castor oil, either topically or internally, to naturally boost immune function and speed up healing.
Folk healers worldwide have also used it to treat a wide variety of health conditions for thousands of years. For example, the reputed benefits of castor oil goes as far back as the ancient Egyptians, who used it to treat eye irritations and as a powerful natural skin care remedy.
It also has deep roots in India, where it’s considered to be a skin-healing, digestive-soothing, antibacterial ingredient that is utilized in Ayurvedic medicine.
What is castor oil used for today? As explained more below, it has natural stimulant laxative properties; has been shown to boost lymphatic, circulatory and immune health; and can help treat constipation, arthritis and more.
What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is a non-volatile fatty oil that is derived from the seeds of the castor bean (Ricinus communis) plant, aka castor seeds. The castor oil plant belongs to the flowering spurge family called Euphorbiaceae and is mainly cultivated in Africa, South America and India (India accounts for over 90% of castor oil exports globally).
Castor is one of the oldest cultivated crops, but interestingly it contributes to only 0.15 percent of the vegetable oil produced in the world each year. This oil is also sometimes called ricinus oil.
It’s very thick with a color that ranges from clear to amber or somewhat green. It’s both used topically on the skin and taken by mouth (it has a mild scent and taste).
Studies suggest that many of castor oil’s benefits come down to its chemical composition. It’s classified as a type of triglyceride fatty acid, and almost 90 percent of its fatty acid content is a specific and rare compound called ricinoleic acid.
Ricinoleic acid is not found in many other plants or substances, making the castor plant unique since it’s a concentrated source.
Aside from its primary constituent, ricinoleic acid, castor oil also contains other beneficial salts and esters that mainly act as skin-conditioning agents. This is why, according to a report published in the International Journal of Toxicology, this oil is used in over 700 cosmetic products and counting.
Research studies have found that castor oil contains therapeutic components including fatty acids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, amino acids, terpenoids and phytosterols. These various compounds give the oil the following properties and potential health benefits:
Anti-diabetic
Anti-inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Antioxidant
Hepatoprotective (ability to prevent damage to the liver)
Free radical scavenging
Wound-healing
Compounds found in castor can help stabilize the texture and consistency of products, which is why castor oil is used in so many cosmetics, hair and skincare treatments.
Reports show that this oil can be safely taken internally. When swallowed, it’s hydrolyzed in the small intestine by pancreatic enzymes, leading to the release of glycerol and ricinoleic acid, along with other beneficial metabolites.
Benefits
1. Improves Immune Function
One of the major reasons castor oil has strong immune-enhancing effects is because it supports the body’s lymphatic system. The most significant role of the lymphatic system, which is spread throughout the whole body in small tubular structures, is that it absorbs and removes excess fluids, proteins and waste materials from our cells.
Castor oil may be able to help improve lymphatic drainage, blood flow, thymus gland health and other immune system functions.
For this reason, the oil and other parts of the castor plant have been used in traditional systems of medicine for the following health conditions:
Abdominal disorders
Arthritis
Backache
Constipation
Muscle aches
Parasitic infections
Chronic headaches
Gallbladder pain
PMS
Rheumatism
Sleep problems like insomnia
A small, double-blind study published in the Journal of Naturopathic Medicinefound that adults who used abdominal castor oil packs on their abdomens had significant increases in the production of lymphocytes compared with patients using placebo packs. Lymphocytes are the immune system’s natural “disease-fighters” that attack outside invaders such as toxins, bacteria and other perceived threats.
The lymphatic system also impacts the circulatory and digestive systems, which is why the oil is sometimes used to support heart health and resolve issues like constipation.
2. Boosts Circulation
A healthy lymphatic system and proper blood flow go hand in hand. When the lymphatic system fails (or edema develops, which is the retention of fluid and toxins), it’s much more likely someone will have circulatory issues.
This is due to the fact that the lymphatic circulatory system works directly with the cardiovascular circulatory system to keep blood and lymphatic fluid levels in an optimal balance.
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, “A growing body of evidence reveals that the lymphatic system influences the health of multiple organs, including the heart, lung, and brain.” So castor’s oil ability to positively affect our lymphatic systems likely means better overall circulation and a health boost to major organs like our hearts.
3. Moisturizes Skin and Boosts Wound Healing
Castor oil is completely natural and free of synthetic chemicals (as long as you use pure 100 percent pure oil, of course), yet it’s rich in skin-boosting ingredients like fatty acids. Applying this oil to dry or irritated skin can help to discourage dryness and keep it well moisturized, since it prevents water loss.
It can also help with wound and pressure ulcer healing thanks to its moisturizing as well as antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. It mixes well with other ingredients like almond, olive and coconut oil, all of which have unique benefits for skin.
Lab studies have shown that castor oil is effective against many types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Out of all the staphylococcal bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus is considered the most dangerous and can cause mild to serious skin infections and other concerning staph infection symptoms.
4. Can Help Induce Labor
Castor oil is a time-honored natural remedy for inducing labor. For centuries, pregnant women at full term have taken it orally to help speed up uterus contractions.
In fact, it’s one of the most popular substances taken in a non-medical setting to induce labor.
According to studies, the reason castor oil can work to induce labor is due to the fact that the ricinoleic acid in the oil can activate EP3 prostanoid receptors in the uterus. Some animal studies have shown that active compounds in the oil attach to the molecules that makes muscles — in both the intestines and uterus — contract.
A 2018 observational case control study found that “The use of castor oil is related to a higher probability of labor initiation within 24 hours. Castor oil can be considered a safe non-pharmacological method for labor induction.”
In addition, the full-term women study subjects (between 40 and 41 weeks) who took castor oil had a lower incidence of Caesarean section.
One downside of using castor oil to help with delivery (and the reason it’s not commonly used in hospitals) is that some women feel nauseated after taking it.
5. Helps Dry, Irritated, Sun-Burnt or Acne-Prone Skin
As a natural antibacterial agent, castor oil works similarly to coconut oil for boosting skin health. It also makes a great general skin moisturizer and anti-inflammatory blemish treatment.
They don't break down in the body or environment, hence the nickname 'forever chemicals, and have been found in air, water, fish and soil across the world.
Some studies have linked them to birth defects, increased risk of prostate, kidney and testicular cancer and fertility problems.
The new paper tested 22 different brands of smart watches and found that 15 of them contained PFAS chemicals, though they did not reveal which brands.
They found more expensive brands were more likely to have high levels of the toxins than less expensive brands.
These devices are all the rage in a wellness revolution increasingly focused on individuals interested in tracking their sleep, exercise and heart rate data.
Roughly 21 percent of US adults and 35 per cent of Brits are believed to use a smart watch, and they wear them for an average of 11 hours at a time.
Smart watches offer programs to track sleep habits, heart rate, exercise and more. The average user wears their device for 11 hours a day, according to the study
Some studies have suggested that long term wear of products containing PFAS may make it so that these chemicals are absorbed through the skin and stored in the body
This means around 54million people in the US and 13 million in the UK could be exposed to these chemicals for long periods every day.
The researchers did not share what brands they tested.
These delicious nuts provide many health and beauty benefits due to the abundance of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and dietary fibers, etc.
Chestnuts are the nuts belonging to Genus Castanea, and are closely related to the beech family or Fagaceae family. They are scientifically known as Castanea Sativa and are available in four varieties such as European chestnuts, Chinese chestnuts, American chestnuts, and Japanese chestnuts. These delicious nuts provide many health and beauty benefits due to the abundance of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and dietary fibers, etc.
Health Benefits of Chestnuts
Some major health benefits of chestnuts are as follows.
(1) Strengthen Bones and Teeth
Chestnut strengthens our bones and teeth due to the abundance of bone-strengthening minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, etc.
Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health as it promotes the growth and development of the bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
Potassium improves bone density by neutralizing acid load and reducing the loss of calcium from the bones.
Potassium in chestnuts is an essential mineral for bone health as it works with calcium for the formation of bones.
Magnesium in chestnuts also plays an important role in improving bone density.
(2) Provide Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Anti-inflammatory compounds such as vitamin C and dietary fibers in chestnut reduces pain and inflammation caused by inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, rheumatism, rheumatoid, gouts, asthma, and bronchial asthma, etc.
(3) Improves Digestive Health
Chestnut is good for the stomach and improves our digestive health.
Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, and other antioxidant compounds like phytonutrients, etc in chestnut protects our digestive system from free radical damage. This reduces the risk of various cancers like colon cancer, abdominal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and intestinal cancer, etc.
The laxative properties of dietary fibers in chestnuts improve bowel movement and provide relief from constipation and other digestive problems like abdominal pain, gas, bloating, and flatulence, etc. A1Q
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces the risk of diverticulosis, a condition that causes inflammation in the small areas of the inner lining of the intestinal walls.
Other nutrients like calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, etc in chestnuts also play a significant role in improving digestive health.
Radiation levels have spiked in New York City, fueling conspiracy theories that the drones terrorizing the Northeast are searching for a missing nuclear warhead.
The emissions, clocked by GQ Electronics' Geiger Counter World Map, were detected near the Bronx and Upper West Side Wednesday.
The application shows a radiation reading of 1048 counts-per-minute (CPM), i.e. how many particles were detected, in the Bronx: higher than normal background radiation.
The average person is typically exposed to background radiation that measures around five to 60 CPM, though CPM varies with sensor devices, according to NASA.
And, on the the Upper West Side, the app's reading measured a still high 175 CPM.
Now, an attorney and long-time critic of China claims that the spikes are a clue that the northeast's mystery drones might be a secret US government effort to identify 'an implanted nuclear weapon' hidden somewhere in the city by America's enemies.
'This is not something which is just wild speculation,' that lawyer and author, Gordon G. Chang, told reporters Monday.
'For more than a decade,' Chang explained, 'US officials have been worried about the North Koreans taking apart a [nuclear] device, smuggling the parts into the United States and reassembling it in the location of their choice.'
By Jennifer Rae Vliet ~ Just recently, a deputy sheriff showed up at our house with plans to arrest me for trespassing on a wooded path that I had been walking on for the last 15 years. True story. I merely avoided the pokie because said deputy felt I truly did not know that I had been trespassing. Aside from the creeper that took pictures of me and followed me home without me knowing that happened to report me to the police about my recent walks, I shared with family what a bummer this is for me because being in the woods has been such a place of solace and somehow has felt healing to my being. Apparently, my phone had been listening because I had multiple reels in social media within hours sharing about the healing that can take place from being in a wooded area. Fast forward to the birth of this column for Your Health Today! A lot of this I did not know and had really never thought much about...
This is about submerging oneself in nature, getting away from technology and stress as well and about taking time to soak in all of the benefits the woods happen to have for our health! God has created a thriving eco system of life within the woodlands and there are many scientific studies to show that talking to our house plants can help THEM thrive...it makes sense that spending time with foliage and earth in this manner can give to us, too. In the woods, we are exposed to cleaner air, essential oils and other compounds that boost our immune system and fight cancer!
",,,and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations" - Revelations 22:2
While this scripture is symbolic as God uses the metaphor of a tree in many respects to relay His important messages and truths, it is beautiful in its own right for this forward.
So, what is "Forest Bathing"? Forest bathing, or “Shinrin-yoku” as it's called in Japan where the practice was founded, is a way of immersing your senses in nature that has proven benefits for our physical and mental wellbeing. Time in nature can boost our immune systems and creativity, settle our minds, and lower our stress levels. But how do you forest bathe? While an actual bath in the forest is not required, here’s an introduction to get started improving your connection with nature and your health.
And of course one of my favorite humans has something to say about it too. Here is Dr. Eric Berg on the topic of Forest Bathing...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oukG5O3IvNE&t=48s
From Sempervirens.com:A walk in the woods gazing at trees, flowers and, if you’re lucky, wildlife, can leave you feeling restored and rejuvenated. Although we inherently feel that spending time in nature is good for us, we may not realize just how good it can be for our health. Forests not only play a major role in cleaning our air and water, but also provide beneficial changes to the minds and bodies of those who spend time among the trees.
Exposure to forests strengthens our immune system, reduces blood pressure, increases energy, boosts our mood and helps us regain and maintain our focus in ways that treeless environments just don’t. These benefits don’t necessarily come from intense physical activities many people do in the forest such as hiking or mountain biking. Almost anyone can reap the rewards of a short sojourn to the woods. The Japanese call it "shinrin-yoku" or "forest bathing." Even 20 minutes in a forested space is enough to produce positive changes in the body.
Why is this?
The secrets lie in the plants themselves. For one reason, forests contain a higher concentration of oxygen than urban spaces do. The next and perhaps most surprising reason comes from the chemicals plants produce called phytoncides. These chemicals are natural oils that plants use to defend themselves against unwanted pests such as insects, bacteria or fungi.
Phytoncides improve the human immune system by increasing natural killer cell activity. These cells respond rapidly to virus-infected cells and tumor formation. Studies show that increased natural cell activity can last for more than 30 days after a trip to a forest, suggesting that a trip once a month would enable individuals to maintain a higher level of natural killer cell activity. Other benefits from phytoncides include an increase in anti-cancer proteins; a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones; reduced test scores for anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion; and increased scores for vigor
So, if you live near an evergreen forest – a forest that contains trees such as pine, cedar, spruce or fir – you live near some of the best phytoncide producers around.
In closing, I want to share a link, here to find trails and wooded paths near you so you can benefit from the blessings of being drenched in God's healing creations! Protect yourself accordingly of course, know your surroundings and get informed about any potentially threatening wildlife. If anyone has any experiences or comments on the topic, please sound off below. We always welcome comments on The Plain Truth!
The Food and Drug Administration will decide on a ban of certain food dyes in the coming weeks after receiving a petition to review the safety of Red 3, NBC News reports.
“With Red 3, we have a petition in front of us to revoke the authorization board, and we’re hopeful that in the next few weeks we’ll be acting on that petition,” Jim Jones, the deputy commissioner for human foods at the FDA, said during a Senate meeting this week, per NBC.
According to the FDA, the agency has reviewed the safety of Red 3 —which is derived from petroleum and found snacks, beverages, candy and more — in food and drugs “multiple times” since it was first approved in 1969, but the petition has requested for the additive to be reviewed once more.
Red 3, found in fan-favorite sweets and other foods, could be banned in the US, NBC News reports.Africa Studio – stock.adobe.comThe FDA will decide on the fate of the food dye Red 3, an additive found in cereals, candies and more that yields a vibrant cherry red hue, in the “next few weeks.”
“With the holiday season in full swing where sweet treats are abundant, it is frightening that this chemical remains hidden in these foods that we and our children are eating,” US Representative Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ), a ranking member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, wrote in a letter to the FDA.
“While food companies must ensure that the food they market is safe, they are also only required to ensure that their products meet FDA’s standards. This means that thousands of products that contain this chemical can remain on the market.”
He argued that there is “no reason” for the additive to be in food “except to entice and mislead customers” to make products appear “more appealing.”
Thomas Galligan, who works at the Center for Science in the Public Interest as a principal scientist for food additives and supplements, echoed a similar sentiment.
“These food dyes only serve one function in food, to make them look pretty so you and I want to buy it, it’s a marketing tool,” he told NBC.
While the FDA has stated that food dyes are safe and do not pose health risks, the dye was banned from topical drugs and cosmetics in 1990.
More than 260 million people in the country could be overweight or obese by 2050, leading to diseases, it said.
EpochTimesHealth
The United States is set to fall in worldwide life expectancy ranking by mid-century, with widespread obesity adversely impacting people’s health, according to a recent study.
The peer-reviewed study, published in The Lancet on Dec. 7, forecasted the life expectancy for Americans between 2022 and 2050 after taking into account the impact of more than 350 diseases and injuries.
Study authors said overall life expectancy is projected to increase from 78.3 years in 2022 to 79.9 years in 2035, and to 80.4 years in 2050. The study said the increase “is forecasted to be modest compared with that in other countries around the world.”
As a result, America’s global rank in terms of life expectancy is projected to decline from 49 in 2022 to 66 in 2050 among 204 nations and territories. In addition, ranking in terms of health-adjusted life expectancy, which estimates the average number of years an individual lives in good health, is projected to fall from 80 to 108.
Despite the slight increase in life expectancy, health improvements are expected to slow down in the nation as a result of obesity issues, said Professor Christopher J.L. Murray, co-senior author of the study and director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), said a Dec. 5 statement from the institute.
Rising obesity rates are a “serious risk factor to many chronic diseases and forecasted to leap to levels never before seen,” he said. “The rise in obesity and overweight rates in the U.S., with IHME forecasting over 260 million people affected by 2050, signals a public health crisis of unimaginable scale.”
Gender-wise, life expectancy ranking of American females is forecast to drop from 51 in 2022 to 74 in 2050. For men, the ranking is expected to fall from 51 to 65.
“These lower rankings put the U.S. below nearly all high-income and some middle-income countries,” the institute said.
Researchers pointed out that the findings “highlight the alarming trajectory of health challenges in the USA, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to a reversal of the health progress made over the past three decades for some US states and a decline in global health standing for all states.”
Between 1990 and 2021, mortality rates for several leading causes of death, like stroke, cancer, and ischemic heart disease, declined nationwide, which contributed to life expectancy improving during this three-decade term.
Chronic Obesity
The study’s categorization of excess weight as a key risk factor to good health comes as the United States is facing an obesity crisis.
More than two in five American adults are obese, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which estimates more than 100 million Americans are obese and more than 22 million have severe obesity.
Obesity rates have skyrocketed over the past decades, jumping from 30.5 percent in 1999–2000 to nearly 42 percent during 2017–2020, with rates of severe obesity almost doubling.
“Many adults with obesity have other serious chronic diseases. For example, 58 percent of U.S. adults with obesity have high blood pressure, a risk factor for heart disease. Also, approximately 23 percent of U.S. adults with obesity have diabetes,” the agency says.
During a hearing in December 2023, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) highlighted the issue of obesity among children, pointing out the link between having excess weight and getting diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
The senator called for banning the advertising of junk food targeting children, saying that such a move could aid in reducing obesity rates among kids.
“For decades, we have allowed large corporations in the food and beverage industry to entice children to eat foods loaded with sugar, salt, and saturated fat. This situation has led to an addiction crisis, with ultra-processed foods being as addictive as alcohol and cigarettes,” he said.
In August, president-elect Donald Trump said that he plans on setting up a panel of experts to investigate the reasons behind surging childhood health issues, including obesity.
In a video from September, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., president-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to head the Department of Health and Human Services, said chemicals in the soil and ultra-processed foods as contributing factors to the country’s obesity situation.
The United States’ food supply is “loaded with high fructose corn syrup and seed oils and hundreds of artificial additives and flavors and processed carbohydrates that don’t exist in nature and that are banned in other countries,” Kennedy said.
Life expectancy in the United States is currently declining, making it the only developed nation with this concerning trend. Since the 1930s, there has been a dramatic 700% increase in chronic disease development, rising from 7.5% prevalence to 60% of the population having one or more chronic conditions today
In the 1800s, people ate three structured meals daily (breakfast, dinner, supper) without snacking or fasting, maintaining a simpler relationship with food than we have today
Our ancestors consumed a high-carb diet rich in saturated fats, with minimal polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), as they didn’t use vegetable oils or eat many nuts and seeds
The 1950s marked a significant shift in dietary recommendations, particularly regarding saturated fats and animal products, leading to major changes in the American diet
To optimize your health, return to simpler food principles: cook at home, source quality ingredients within your means, stay active, and prioritize happiness over strict dietary rules
There is profound value in looking to the past, drawing from the wisdom of our ancestors to uncover how they cultivated healthy, balanced lives and sustained their communities across generations. While their life expectancy may not have been as long, this data is skewed by low birth survival rates, which modern Medicine has drastically improved. And did you know that the U.S. actually has a decline in life expectancy in modern times? America is the only developed nation with a *declining* healthy life expectancy and total life expectancy!1 We aren’t doing something right! Since the food we eat every single day plays the biggest lever in improving our health, let’s investigate the diets of our ancestors. The 1800s offer us a unique window into a different relationship with food — one where abundance was celebrated, meals were a source of joy, and the dinner table was the heart of family life. In an era before processed foods and modern food fears/orthorexic behavior, people maintained a simpler, more intuitive connection with their meals. What I find most intriguing is how their approach to food differs from our modern perspective. While we often grapple with complex dietary rules and restrictions, our ancestors focused on nourishment, celebration, and making the most of available ingredients. So, let’s step back in time and explore what graced our great-great-great-grandma’s dinner table for the month of November. The meals might inspire your own culinary adventures! I’ll share some photos from a few different vintage cookbooks, then discuss some of the consistent trends at the end!
Truthfully, they ate a very metabolically supportive diet. They ate a lot of food (calories), didn’t fast, ate high carb, consumed primarily saturated-rich fat sources and ate low PUFA, and they consumed B vitamin rich animal protein sources. I am slightly fascinated by the farming and culinary traditions of our ancestors, so I hope you enjoy these vintage meal plans as much as I do! So, first, let’s check out meals from “What shall we eat?” published in 1868. Meals our great-great-great-grandparents could have consumed.
I am slightly fascinated by the farming and culinary traditions of our ancestors, so I hope you enjoy these vintage meal plans as much as I do! So, first, let’s check out meals from “What shall we eat?” published in 1868. Meals our great-great-great-grandparents could have consumed.
Next, let’s check out a meal plan from “What shall we have to eat?” published in 1893. Meals our great-great-great-grandparents, or great-great-grandparents might have consumed.
Isn’t it eye-opening to take a look at 1800s meal plans? No crazy diet rules, no food fear, and plenty of calories. While we don’t need to go this extreme with food prep, it’s a reminder to ditch the diet stress. Notable trends:
Ate 3 meals/day, no intentional fasting, but also did not frequently graze/snack (instead of “breakfast, lunch, dinner” they called the meals “breakfast, dinner, supper”)
No dietary extremes
Did not fear carbs (ate high carb)
Consumed mostly saturated fats, and ate relatively lower polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) (no vegetable oils, and didn’t eat much nuts and seeds)
Consumed food that is demonized across a variety of diet camps: meat, dairy, flour, sugar, fruit, potatoes, and grains
No processed food/food in a package
One of the biggest changes has been the TYPES of fat consumed.
The saturated fat, animal product and cholesterol fear-mongering propaganda starting in the 1950s led to a huge shift in our dietary fat. Since the 1930s, there has been a 700% increase in chronic disease development. In the 1930s, the chronic disease prevalence was 7.5%.2 Today, 60% of the population has one or more chronic disease.3,4
I’m not sharing these meal plans to suggest that you should eat exactly as they did. Instead, my goal is to help you reduce food fear and stress as you navigate the overwhelming and often confusing health space. The last thing any of us need is more stress in our lives!
Gaining perspective from the diets of our great-great-great-grandparents can be both liberating and grounding. In today’s world, where so many foods are scrutinized, this perspective can help alleviate unnecessary fear around eating.
Letting go of food fears can significantly enhance your well-being. Feel empowered to explore traditional food preparations and discover what nourishes your body best, rather than letting someone else’s anxieties dictate your choices. And to address the elephant in the room — yes, they did not have to deal with the crappy food system we all face today. OF COURSE food sourcing is important!
Our modern food system is undeniably complex and imperfect, and it does contribute to various health issues. But better options do exist, such as organic sugar or non-GMO, organic flour. Embrace the idea that there’s always a step forward you can take.
Instead of feeling overwhelmed, consider focusing on just one area of your sourcing to improve for the rest of the year — whether it’s meat, dairy, eggs, produce, or grains. Small, sustainable changes help avoid overwhelm and empower you to make a difference. Do the best you can and avoid what you personally can’t tolerate.
But instead of stressing about eating “good” and avoiding “bad” foods on a list made from some random health influencer (which will differ depending on who you follow) … Keep it simple: cook at home, source as high of quality ingredients that you can, stay active, and prioritize happiness.
