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6 Impressive Benefits of Makhana (Lotus Seeds) – Healthline

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:53 am

Makhana is a type of seed derived from the Euryale ferox plant. Theyre also sometimes referred to as fox nuts or lotus seeds.

Makhanas are widely cultivated throughout Asia and often used in traditional forms of medicine to treat various conditions (1).

Theyre also sometimes roasted and enjoyed as a savory snack or added to curries, side dishes, or desserts.

Here are 6 of the top benefits of makhana.

Makhana is an excellent source of several important nutrients and makes a great addition to a healthy, well-rounded diet.

It contains a good amount of carbs in each serving and is also rich in several micronutrients, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus (2).

Calcium, in particular, has been shown to support bone health, help reduce blood pressure, and decrease cholesterol levels (3).

Meanwhile, magnesium is necessary for a wide range of metabolic reactions in the body and involved in protein synthesis, muscle contractions, nerve function, and more (4).

Makhana is a good source of protein and fiber, along with micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus.

Makhana is rich in various antioxidants, which are compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent oxidative stress (5).

In particular, makhana contains specific antioxidants like gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin (6, 7).

Research shows that antioxidants play a key role in several aspects of health and may help protect against chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes (8).

Antioxidants can also reduce inflammation, which could be beneficial for inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease (9).

Makhana is rich in antioxidants, which could protect against inflammation and chronic disease.

Some research suggests that makhana could help support better blood sugar management.

For example, one animal study showed that administering a supplement containing makhana extract to rats with diabetes helped improve blood sugar regulation and increased several antioxidant enzymes (10).

Another animal study found that a specific compound isolated from makhana seeds improved blood sugar and insulin levels in rats with diabetes (11).

Several other animal studies have observed similar findings, noting that makhana extract could enhance blood sugar management (12, 13).

That said, keep in mind that these studies used highly concentrated amounts of makhana extract in animals.

Therefore, more research is needed to determine how makhana may affect blood sugar levels in humans when consumed in typical amounts.

Several animal studies show that makhana extract could help improve blood sugar management, but more human research is needed.

Adding makhana seeds to your diet is a great way to boost your intake of protein and fiber two key nutrients that may benefit weight loss.

Protein, in particular, has been shown to reduce food cravings and help regulate your appetite (14).

Meanwhile, fiber moves slowly through your digestive tract to keep you feeling full during the day (15).

Some studies show that consuming a higher amount of fiber could be linked to reductions in belly fat, as well as increased weight loss (16, 17).

Still, additional studies are needed to evaluate the effects of makhana specifically on weight loss.

Makhana is rich in protein and fiber, which may be beneficial for weight loss and fat loss.

Some studies suggest that certain compounds found in makhana could possess powerful anti-aging properties.

In fact, according to one review, makhana contains several amino acids that are known for their anti-aging properties, including glutamine, cystine, arginine, and methionine (18).

Glutamine, for instance, is used to produce proline, which is an amino acid found in collagen, a compound that supports skin hydration and elasticity (19, 20).

Methionine and arginine are also involved in the production of creatine, another compound that has been shown to have anti-aging effects in several older studies (21, 22, 23, 24).

Makhana is likewise a good source of antioxidants, which can help promote skin health and slow signs of aging (7, 25, 26).

Makhana is rich in antioxidants and contains several amino acids that may have anti-aging properties, such as helping promote skin elasticity and skin health.

Although research in humans is lacking, some animal studies have found that makhana seeds may benefit heart health.

One animal study found that administering makhana extract to rats with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease for 4 weeks significantly reduced high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, both of which are common risk factors for heart disease (27).

Another animal study observed similar findings, noting that makhana extract improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels in rats with diabetes (10).

Whats more, one older animal study found that makhana extract protected the heart against injury and helped neutralize harmful free radicals (28).

However, more studies are needed to determine how makhana may affect heart health in humans when enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Some animal studies have found that makhana extract could reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels to improve heart health.

Although makhana isnt as widely available as other types of nuts and seeds, you can find it at many specialty stores or online retailers.

It has a mild, neutral flavor that works well in a variety of recipes.

One of the most popular ways to prepare makhana involves roasting the seeds and seasoning them with your choice of herbs and spices, such as sea salt, turmeric, chili powder, or black pepper.

It also makes a great addition to main courses, including curries or bhel puri, which is a dish made with puffed rice, peanuts, chutneys, and vegetables.

Alternatively, you can try mixing chopped and roasted makhana seeds into kheer, a type of rice pudding thats popular in India.

Makhana is available at many specialty stores and online retailers. It can be roasted and enjoyed as a savory snack or added to several entres and desserts.

Makhana is a type of seed commonly used throughout Asia.

Its rich in antioxidants and micronutrients and may help slow signs of aging and support heart health, blood sugar management, and weight loss.

Its also versatile and easy to enjoy in many different recipes, including snacks, main dishes, and desserts.

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6 Impressive Benefits of Makhana (Lotus Seeds) - Healthline

This Guy Lost 120 Pounds, Got Fit, and Became a Competitive Bodybuilder – menshealth.com

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:53 am

As a teenager, Jonny Valdez spent most of his time playing video games and watching TV, with little thought given to his health or personal fitness. "When my stomach told me it was time to eat, I would go to the kitchen or I'd go to the store, get something that would just fill me up quickly," he says in a recent episode of Truly's transformation series Brand New Me.

At just 17 years old, Jonny weighed 270 poundsthis was when he reached a turning point in his life.

"I was on the verge of not graduating from high school," he says. "Everything was all piling up. I was faced with a choice to either do something about it, or just watch everything fall apart. So one day I decided to just get up, go in the mirror, do what I've never done before, and take that first transformation photo. And there was no way I was going to leave a transformation photo just sitting in my phone and not do something about it."

Over the course of the next three years, Johnny lost a total of 120 pounds, and found a passion for working out and lifting weights that has led to him participating in physique shows. "I guess I see the gym as an escape for me," he says. "It'll always make my day better... I'm satisfied knowing that I'm building towards my body of my dreams, and I'm happy with everything right now."

Following his weight loss transformation, the last year has seen Jonny put on 30 pounds of mass in order to build strength and size for his next bodybuilding eventand at the time of filming, he has just achieved a deadlift PR of 400 pounds.

"The feeling of self-gratitude and being proud of myself is something I don't think I've ever felt in my life," he says. "I'm comfortable in my skin now... It doesn't matter how long it takes, anything is possible, whether it's weight loss or life journeys. Never give up on yourself, and I promise you'll see the outcome in the end."

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This Guy Lost 120 Pounds, Got Fit, and Became a Competitive Bodybuilder - menshealth.com

Experts Warn Against TikTok’s Weight Loss Dance Trend tiktok dance – kiss951.com

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:53 am

WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 07: In this photo illustration, the TikTok app is displayed on an Apple iPhone on August 7, 2020 in Washington, DC. On Thursday evening, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that bans any transactions between the parent company of TikTok, ByteDance, and U.S. citizens due to national security reasons. The president signed a separate executive order banning transactions with China-based tech company Tencent, which owns the app WeChat. Both orders are set to take effect in 45 days. (Photo Illustration by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Theres an ab exercise thats all over TikTok and people are paying attention because it promises to reduce belly fat and give you a slimmer waist. The TikTok weight loss dance is going viral, but experts warn this is one trend you dont want to try at home.

The stomach workout made famous by user @Janny14906 has received millions of likes and follows as it claims to be the perfect ab routine. The idea is to move your chest and hips forward and then backwards really quickly while twisting, which makes it sort of a dance. The videos claim the exercise will reduce the abdomen by doing each movement for five minutes, but personal trainer Sohee Lee says, Its a myth that you can target fat loss from a specific body part. So specific exercises cant give you a flat stomach, even if they claim to.

And on top of that, doing one exercise to get a certain look isnt healthy if youre blowing off nutrition, sleep, drinking water and all the other things that are important to taking care of your health. So even though the post says you can exercise for an hour a day and eat whatever you want, Lee points out thats just not true and this kind of advice is what gets people into trouble. Psychologist irin Ateken also warns against the psychological dangers of fad diets and quick fixes that give us unrealistic expectations. So just like with any viral exercise that promises fast results, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

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Experts Warn Against TikTok's Weight Loss Dance Trend tiktok dance - kiss951.com

Investigating the role of an amino acid in cancer – Medical News Today

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

When one cell in an animal divides or proliferates uncontrollably, the result is cancer.

Multicellular organisms, such as humans, have evolved multiple checks and balances that usually prevent this from happening.

For example, cells may only divide a certain number of times before they lose the ability, or they may undergo apoptosis or programmed cell death to prevent uncontrolled growth.

Some genes that can potentially cause cancer appear to have a built-in safety mechanism, which means that they promote not only cell proliferation but also cell death.

One of these cancer genes, or oncogenes, is called SRC.

Scientists have developed several drugs that block the downstream effects of the gene, but they have proved unsuccessful in chemotherapy trials.

The reason may be that the drugs shut down both the cancer-promoting and cancer-inhibiting pathways that the gene governs.

Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research in Kobe, Japan, led an international team that has now shed light on how this single gene can have diametrically opposite effects on cells.

By studying the role of the gene in fruit flies, they have discovered how it simultaneously regulates two distinct molecular pathways: one that promotes growth and one that promotes cell death.

Crucially, they have also uncovered a possible way to block the cancer-promoting pathway without also shutting down the growth-inhibiting pathway.

They found that restricting the amount of an amino acid called methionine in the flies food had the desired effect.

We were excited to find that manipulating the amount of dietary methionine can affect cell proliferation but not cell death, says Dr. Sa Kan Yoo, Ph.D., who led the research.

The research features in the journal eLife.

Amino acids are the molecular building blocks of protein.

Methionine, which is abundant in meat and eggs, is known as an essential amino acid because the body cannot make its own.

A wealth of evidence suggests that most cancers are dependent on methionine in the diet. For example, Medical News Today previously reported on a study that showed that mice that ate a diet low in methionine responded better to cancer treatments.

Other studies have found that cancer cells may, in general, be dependent on dietary methionine for their growth and survival.

Dr. Yoo and his colleagues reached their conclusions about methionine by studying the Src gene in the fruit fly Drosophila.

To identify which other genes are involved in the effects of Src on cell proliferation and death, the researchers used a technique called RNA interference to shut down gene candidates one at a time.

By process of elimination, this revealed for the first time that Src exerts its effects on cell proliferation and death via a lynchpin gene called Slpr and the SLPR protein for which it codes.

This protein simultaneously activates two other proteins: P38 and JNK.

The researchers found that the latter protein controls the pathway that leads to cell death, whereas the former controls the pathway leading to cell proliferation.

When they reviewed the scientific literature on P38 and the pathways it plays a role in, the scientists realized that its activity is strongly dependent on nutrients in the diet.

In a further series of experiments, the researchers tried to determine which single nutrient had the strongest influence on the P38 pathway.

By eliminating one essential amino acid at a time from the diet of fly larvae, they discovered that depriving the larvae of methionine shut down the P38 pathway.

This prevented the uncontrolled cell proliferation that led to cancer without affecting the fail-safe pathway to cell death.

However, the current study involved basic research in flies. Only clinical trials can determine whether the strategy would work in people.

Currently, we dont know whether our finding in flies will translate to cases of human cancer, says Dr. Yoo.

But we speculate that it will in particular cases because some human cancers also activate the SRC gene, he adds.

In the course of their experiments, Dr. Yoo and his colleagues discovered that SLPR is the starting point for pathways that other oncogenes, in addition to Src, control.

Finding out how this happens is our next goal, Dr. Yoo says.

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Investigating the role of an amino acid in cancer - Medical News Today

Fasting may help you lose weight, reduce inflammation, and boost cognition – here’s how to do it safely – Business Insider Australia

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

While many people all over the world fast for religious and cultural reasons, there are also proven health benefits of this practice, as long as you do it safely.

Heres what you need to know about the health benefits of fasting and the potential safety risks.

Fasting is when you do not eat for a certain period of time.

You can fast in several different ways. According to Andrew Wang, MD, PhD, a professor of immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine, the main types are:

Inflammation is your bodys natural response to infection. However, repeated exposure to pollution, sunlight, or even our bodys own metabolic processes can cause a state of chronic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation can damage healthy cells, tissues, and organs, and is associated with many diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

There are a few ways fasting may reduce inflammation in the body:

When we age, our organs are prone to chronic inflammation called inflammaging, Wang says. Chronic inflammation can contribute to cognitive decline and dementia potentially due to plaque buildup in the brain. Fasting helps to counter this by reducing inflammation, Wang says.

Research suggests fasting can prevent the development of Alzheimers in animals. While the research has not yet been conducted in humans, a 2019 study found that intermittent fasting can slow cognitive decline and improve the symptoms of Alzheimers disease in mice.

However, the cognitive benefits of fasting are not restricted to the elderly. A small 2016 study tested amateur weightlifters after a 48 hour fast and found that fasting improved mental flexibility, which was defined as their ability to quickly and efficiently switch between tasks.

Fasting may also regulate blood sugar levels. Maintaining normal blood sugar is important to protect against diseases like type 2 diabetes.

Related Article Module: 6 ways to lower your blood sugar naturallyBlood sugar increases when you eat, so it naturally falls when you fast, Wang says. However, your body will prevent your blood sugar from dipping too much by making glucose itself. This keeps your blood sugar at a healthy level, which is considered above 70 mg/dL.

In fact, a small 2019 study of men at risk for type 2 diabetes found eating in a nine-hour window aka intermittent fasting helped improve glucose tolerance.

While research on this topic is limited, Wang says it is reasonable to assume that fasting boosts heart health by reducing inflammation and protecting against diabetes which are both risk factors for heart attacks and strokes.

A small 2012 study tested Muslims with a history of heart disease who fasted intermittently for Ramadan. After their fast ended, there was an improvement in their 10-year coronary heart disease risk score and a reduction in other heart risk factors like lipids profile, systolic blood pressure, and weight.

Fasting helps you lose weight by restricting the number of calories you eat. Intermittent fasting eating your meals in an eight-hour window earlier in the day helps with weight loss by keeping blood sugar levels lower in the evening when you are less active.

However, there is mixed evidence regarding if fasting for weight loss is more effective than a calorie-restricted diet. A 2015 review found intermittent fasting tends to lead to weight loss, with participants typically losing around seven to 11 pounds in 10 weeks. However, other studies found that intermittent fasting and calorie restriction were equally effective in helping people lose weight.

If youre looking to lose weight, talk to your doctor about the best method for you.

Fasting times can range significantly. While intermittent fasting usually involves fasting for about 16 hours a day, longer fasts can range from 24 to 72 hours.

Theres no magic amount of time you should fast for, Wang says. The best thing to do is to listen to your body and determine what type of fast works for you.

However, you should not fast if you are:

In addition, you should consult with your doctor before fasting if you are:

Fasting may offer health benefits, like reduced inflammation, better heart health, and improved cognitive functioning.

However, fasting is not advisable for certain people, and going too long without food can be harmful. If you are interested in fasting, it is important to listen to your body and ask your doctor if its safe to fast.

How to follow an intermittent fasting schedule with 6 different methodsThe different types of intermittent fasting and which may be more beneficial to your healthDoes intermittent fasting work? Research doesnt have a definite answer for its long-term effectsWhat to eat when intermittent fasting for health and hunger pains

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Fasting may help you lose weight, reduce inflammation, and boost cognition - here's how to do it safely - Business Insider Australia

20 Best Healthy Clubs to Join on Clubhouse – Parade

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

Clubhouse is the new, fast-growing, invite-only social networking app that allows people to voice chat about a variety of topics. Health is one of the fastest-growing areas of discussion. In fact, at any time, day or night, you can find conversations about health, wellness and wellbeing on Clubhouse.

A warning: Clubs are led by a variety of licensed professionals, as well as enthusiasts. When you listen and participate in these discussions, its wise to heed the disclaimer offered by many clubsthat information shared is for the purpose of education or entertainment, and is not a substitute for therapy or medical advice.

That said, are you ready to jump into Clubhouse to get physically and mentally healthier? Here are 20 well-known clubs, as well as some hidden gems, to up your healthy game:

5,700 members, 31,100 followers

This club shares and learns evidence-based information on everything related to COVID-19, including vaccines, policy, masks and symptoms. MDs and PhDs are actively involved in discussions.

Popular room: Join the weekly Q&A with scientists and expert clinicians who answer questions about COVID-19 at 12 pm PST on Thursdays.

Related: What Exactly is Clubhouse?

3,300 members, 6,500 followers

This club provides discussions from experts and Q&A about all things related to menstruation, fertility, menopause and more.

Says one member, Women in the rooms are asking everything from basic to complicated questions that are not getting answered from their own OB-GYNs. Dr. Cindy has assembled supportive experts that give answers to those questions, and give them actionable steps to go back to their own providers with.

Recent room topics: Determining possible hormonal imbalances, requesting specific lab tests, learning more about pelvic floor physical therapy and steps that can be taken for heavy periods.

553 members, 48,000 followers

This club offers weekly conversations around ways to increase physical, social, and mental wellbeing.

1 member, 49 followers

Take a deep dive into brain health, with discussions about sleep, depression, brain networks and more. One fan says the weekly conversations on Fridays at 1 pm PST with David Perlmutter, MD, are amazing.

794 members, 109 followers

This club offers sharing, learning and growth on topics about Eastern Medicine, including Tibetan and Chinese medicine, and Ayurveda.

Recent room topics: The Science of Sustainable Weight Loss, Self Care Q&A, and The Science of Healthy Sleep.

516 members, 497 followers

Lea Jacobson, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist, leads discussions about the everyday uses of essential oils and how to use them safely, regardless of what brand you use.

Related: Got a Headache? Skip Over the Counter Drugs and Give These 6 Essential Oils a Try

1,100 members; 131,000 followers

The largest food, plant-based and vegan community in Clubhouse offers multiple discussions each day with talks from founders, funders and foodies in the nutrition and plant space.

Recent room topics: Plant-Based Eating for Athletic Performance, Yoga Is Vegan! Healing Through Yoga and Veganism and Plant-Powered Physicians The Kitchen Clinic, as well as conversations around recipes, products and services.

4,300 members, 34,100 followers

This group is moderated by Registered Dieticians and opens a space for discussions about health, nutrition and food research. Weekly discussions share knowledge and evidence-based information.

736 members, 402 followers

This club offers a safe place to talk about losing weight, diets, workout plans, and emotional struggles. Its open to those considering a weight loss journey, people who want to get motivated, and anyone who wants to share a success story.

107 members, 65 followers

This club is the first Low FODMAP community on Clubhouse, and discusses and educates on gastrointestinal issues, gut health, IBS and FODMAPs. Anyone from those interested in a Low FODMAP diet to those who follow it are welcome.

Says one member, This club is level 10 for anyone thats been struggling with GI issues. The thing about gut problems is that you feel alone. Being in a space with people that get it helps you to feel less alone. The best thing is that you get to connect with those that are struggling and create solutions and a sense of belonging.

5,800 members, 7,300 followers

Learn everything you need to know about the ketogenic diet and eating low carb, in this popular club. Daily discussions include Ask a Keto Coach, Keto Support and Motivation and keto cooking tips.

Related: The Ultimate Keto Guide for Beginners, Including Exactly How to Get Started

25,500 members, 461,000 followers

Consistently ranked in the top 10 most followed clubs on Clubhouse, discussions center on the ways in which lifestyle changes, tech interventions and pioneering thinkers in the mental health field can come together to improve mental health.

Popular room: Behavioural Health AMA with Psychiatrists: Sunday nights from 6:55 to 9 pm EST. Discussions include education on common mental health concerns like depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD, as well as specialized talks on OCD, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and more.

9,200 members, 5,500 followers

This clubs goal is to change the conversation about mental health.

Being able to listen to providers/patients/family members of patients/even random folks speak about mental health is an outlet that does not exist in real life for most people, says one member. It has become my home base for all things mental health. And Ive been pleasantly surprised to even learn about groundbreaking treatments that Ive never heard about anywhere else, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

The member recommends the PsychCrunch Disrupt room on Sundays at 2 pm EST, as well as The Future of Mental Health that is hosted on Mondays at 7:30 pm EST as great starting points for those new to Clubhouse and interested in mental health.

25 members, 198 followers

This club offers a safe space to have conversations about ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions, including autism and dyslexia.

Says one member, I love to hear from real people about how ADHD is affecting their lives. I always learn something new about myself or about my clients. Either way, I realize that I am not alone with ADHD and Dani Donovan is a terrific room leader and ADHD ambassador.

Related: 30 of the Best Mental Health Apps, Because We All Deserve to Feel a Little Better Right Now

21,200 members, 12,400 followers

Lisa Abramson, called an inspiration by Oprah, leads daily, brief, powerful meditation sessions.

6,400 members, 42,100 followers

The goal of this club is to elevate mental health conversations that lead to social change. Discussions are led by industry experts and real people who have experienced mental health issues.

19,400 members, 97,500 followers

The largest fitness club on Clubhouse offers a variety of scheduled weekly discussions, on everything from womens wellness to gratitude and self-love, to conversations for Peloton fans.

Popular room: The Clip Out podcast show post discussion takes place Sundays at 2 pm PST. Says one member, The ClipOut keeps me informed on whats going on with my favorite instructors. Clubhouse has added an additional social element that I had been missing during the pandemica place to hear other voices, all of us chatting live about our common interest in fitness and Peloton.

Another popular room: The daily 10-minute workout at 12 pm-12:10 pm PST, M-F. Each session includes 10-15 bodyweight exercises. The rooms motto: Come for the workout, stay for the throwback jams.

Related: Get Ready to Clip Into Your Peloton, Because We Just Found the Most Popular 30-Minute Rides of All Time

41 members, 39 followers

Host Carolyn Cohen created this club as a complement to her popular podcast of the same name. Clubhouse provides the opportunity for more interaction. Discussion topics include gratitude, sustainability, the 10,000 steps goal, and more. Participants are encouraged to walk or move in some other way during the conversation, even doing laundry or cleaning the house.

Popular room: The weekly Clubhouse walk and discussion on Wednesdays at noon EST.

26 members, 4,500 followers

This club is for those interested in Crossfit or already participating in Crossfit. Discussion topics include sharing lifestyle tips, favorite equipment, working out safely during COVID-19 and more.

4,600 members, 16,500 followers

This club is a place for Peloton lovers to come together and share best practices, favorite classes and instructors, and successes.

Popular room: Weekly discussion on Wednesdays at 8:30 pm EST

Up next: Does sugar cause Iiflammation?

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20 Best Healthy Clubs to Join on Clubhouse - Parade

Mealworms are a safe source of protein, says the EU – World Economic Forum

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

Worms are now firmly on the menu in Europe.

The European Union (EU) has ruled that the larval stage of the Tenebrio molitor beetle, the mealworm, is safe for people to eat and it will shortly be on the market as a novel food.

EU researchers said that the worms, eaten whole or in powder form, are protein-rich, while the UN Food and Agriculture Organization said that edible insects contain high-quality protein, vitamins and amino acids for humans.

As well as being a nutritious food source, insects consume fewer resources than traditional livestock. There are, of course, many parts of the world where insects are already part of everyday diets. Industrializing their production and consumption could open up new routes to feeding the worlds growing population and alleviating some of the environmental pressures caused by conventional agriculture.

Ensuring access to safe, healthy sources of food is a key part of the UNs Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) drive. From zero hunger to climate action, from ending poverty to ensuring responsible use of resources, many of the 17 SDGs relate to the food people eat, how it is grown and how it is distributed.

According to the World Economic Forums Meat: The Future report, keeping up with the demand for animal-derived protein could put meeting the SDGs and Paris Climate Agreement targets in jeopardy.

Livestock around the world is responsible for around 14.5% of all greenhouse gas emissions relating to human activity. The need for land whether for grazing animals or growing crops to feed animals is the single greatest driver of deforestation, with major consequences for biodiversity loss, the paper says.

Another approach to closing the protein gap is growing artificial meat and other protein alternatives. Lab-grown meat requires animal stem cells, which are cultured in nutrient-rich material. Protein alternatives, like mycoprotein (which is derived from fungi), are used to create meat-free meals.

Meat production has boomed in the past 50-plus years. According to Our World in Data, in the early 1960s, Europe and North America were the largest meat producing areas, but this has now changed. Asia accounts for around 40-45% of global meat production, while Europe and North Americas share had fallen to 19% and 15%, respectively.

Meat is a growing business. Can insect-derived protein change peoples eating habits?

Image: Our World in Data

That change reflects broader shifts around eating habits; by 2050, the demand for meat-based protein is expected to double, according to Meat: The Future. Currently, animal-based protein provides 40% of the worlds protein supply though meat, fish and dairy products such as eggs and milk, the papers authors write.

However, as meat-based protein (for instance, beef, lamb, pork and chicken) is tasty, protein-rich and energy-dense, it is the preferred or aspirational way for a significant part of the global population to consume protein. Consequently, as the population grows and the world becomes richer and more urbanized, demand for meat-based protein is growing fast.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

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Mealworms are a safe source of protein, says the EU - World Economic Forum

Governor Larry Hogan Proclaims Friday, May 7 as School And Community Nutrition Hero Day – maryland.gov

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

Governor Larry Hogan Proclaims Friday, May 7 as School And Community Nutrition Hero DayMay 7, 2021

Contact: Lora Rakowski, lora.rakowski@maryland.gov

BALTIMORE (May 7, 2021) Today, Governor Larry Hogan proclaimed Friday, May 7, 2021 as Maryland School and Community Nutrition Hero Day. The designation is a tribute to the dedication and continuous efforts of Marylands child nutrition programs staff, who have been on the frontlines since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic emergency. School nutrition staff and volunteers have served more than 81 million meals throughout the State during the pandemic. As students return to in-person learning, school nutrition staff are providing both emergency and in-school meals.

Serving millions of meals on the frontlines since the pandemic began, our school nutrition program staff are truly heroes. They are making school meals safe for in-person learning, and continue to serve emergency meals as well, said Governor Larry Hogan. As part of National School Lunch Hero Day, we are proud to recognize our school nutrition teams unwavering commitment to nourishing our States children.

The Maryland State Department of Educations Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs provides Marylanders with a variety of nutrition program options for infants, preschoolers, school-aged children and certain adult groups as well. School nutrition staff, prepare and serve meals help nurture our children. In some cases, that meal is the only or most nutrient-rich meal of that students day.

Our incredible school nutrition employees have been a critical part of ensuring that our students are fueled for success during these unprecedented times, said State Schools Superintendent Karen B. Salmon, Ph.D. Our gratitude extends on School Lunch Hero Day and every day.

The United State Department of Agriculture funded child nutrition programs provide a critical safety net for millions of people in our State, in addition to meeting rigorous nutrition guidelines and standards. Participation in the nutrition programs support good health, development of life long healthy behaviors, promotion of academic achievement, nutrition education and promotion, and addresses food insecurity. For more information, please visit eatsmartmaryland.org

National School Lunch Hero day was designated by The School Nutrition Association and Jarrett Krosoczka, author of the Lunch Lady graphic novel series. School Lunch Hero Day provides an opportunity for parents, students, school staff and communities to honor those who provide healthy meals to nearly 30 million of Americas students each school day. Learn more about School Lunch Hero Day at http://www.schoollunchheroday.com.

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School & Community Nutrition Hero Day May 7, 2021 Proclamation

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Governor Larry Hogan Proclaims Friday, May 7 as School And Community Nutrition Hero Day - maryland.gov

7 Food Scraps That Arent Safe To Eat – Well+Good

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

The zero-waste food movement is gaining momentum, and it couldnt happen soon enough. After all, approximately 30 to 40 percent of the food supply is wasted in the U.S., according to the FDA estimations, meaning its thrown away, spoils, or otherwise fails to make its way into mouths and bellies. And given that recent findings suggest that more than one-third of man-made greenhouse gas emissions come from food systems, cutting down on food waste could go a long way in saving the planet.

With news this disconcerting, its little wonder that chefs like Ryan Moore of Sababa in Washington, D.C. are making it their mission to reduce their footprint when it comes to food waste. From our waste oil from fryers being recycled into biofuel to repurposing scraps into menu items, we find a way to turn the most basic parts of an ingredient into something our customers will eat, he explains. For example, Moores team turns lemon peels into lemon charcoal, which is then cooked with honey to create a marmalade. Broccoli stems are incorporated into a charred tahini sauce; whereas fruit scraps like strawberry tops, mango pits, and citrus peels get made into vinegar.

That said, your good intentions to reduce food waste shouldnt turn into bad side effects. As you attempt to eat the entirety of an ingredient, you may want to keep a weather eye on which parts of your favorite fruits and vegetables are safe for human consumptionand which youre better off composting. As it turns out, there are some food items that should not make it into your diet (at least, not on a regular basis).

This is the only food scrap Chef Moore doesnt use in his kitchen. We go through around 90 pounds of Chinese eggplant a week, and we cut off the top part of the stem because eggplant and other nightshades contain solanine, which may lead to inflammation and exacerbate conditions like arthritis, he explains.

Dried, fresh, or flash frozen mango is enjoyed so many ways, but be sure to peel them before you eat them. The skins of these tropical fruits contain a chemical called urushiol, which is the same chemical that triggers an allergic reaction in some folks when they come in contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac.

An apples core and seeds may not be the safest to eat due to a compound within that may turn into cyanide, says Keri Gans, a registered nurse dietician. However, its the dose that makes the poison and you would have to eat a rather large amount (say, 15 cores) to have a reaction.

Those odd growths on your potatoes are more than an eyesore; when potatoes sprout (or turn green), they contain higher concentrations of a glycoalkaloid poison known as solanine. Symptoms of solanine poisoning include a range of not-so-pleasant side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, throat burning, nightmares, headache, dizziness, itching, eczema, and pain in the joints. That said, if you cut out the sprouts or green parts of your potato, you should be a-okay.

While rhubarb stalks make a great pie filling, the leaves are less inviting. Rhubarb leaves are known to contain oxalic acid, and when eaten, it may lead to kidney stones, says Gans.

Its probably worth de-pitting your cherries when making your desserts or reductionsnot only will the end result be a lot more attractive, but itll also remove the possibility of introducing the cyanide compound they contain into your system. And while swallowing a couple pits wont do you any harm, you probably shouldnt make a habit of eating cherries whole.

Controlling the storage of your food scrapsregardless of what they areis key to ensuring their edibility, says Krista Linares, registered dietitian nutritionist. The biggest food safety concern with leftovers or food scraps would be related to time-temperature control, she notes. Foods that have been left at room temperature for longer than four hours should be avoided due to the potential for food-born illness.

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7 Food Scraps That Arent Safe To Eat - Well+Good

Letters to the editor | Letters | timesnews.net – Kingsport Times News

Posted: May 10, 2021 at 1:52 am

I am completely aggravated with the significant portion of the population who are refusing to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The two prevailing reasons for this refusal are: (1) I do not trust that the vaccine is safe and (2) I do not want any level of government to interfere with my right to choose what I do or do not do for myself.

The first reason is completely bogus because there is no such thing as a perfectly safe vaccine, or for that matter, a perfectly safe drug of any kind. A small percentage of people have a bad reaction to penicillin, to aspirin, to ibuprofen, to acetaminophen, and to every other drug that has ever been given to patients, yet millions of people take prescribed or over-the-counter drugs every day without worrying that any individual will be the one in a million who has the bad reaction.

The second reason is ridiculous because we, as a society, comply with many rules that have been imposed by government for the safety of ourselves and others. These rules include wearing seat belts, not using a cellphone in a car, having flotation devices on boats, having a drivers license, and requiring children be vaccinated before attending school.

For those of us who are old enough to remember it, in the mid-1950s, without any prior announcement, when we arrived at school one day every student was lined up and given a Salk polio vaccine.

Its too bad that some of todays adults are so self-centered that they do not care about the harm they may cause to themselves or others. Every person should be required to be vaccinated against COVID and unless they comply they cannot renew a drivers license or get a passport or buy an airline ticket or attend any sporting event.

Kerry A. Musick

Blountville

School nutrition staff deserve our thanks

It has been over a year since the COVID pandemic hit and the schools in our state had to instantly pivot from in-person to virtual learning.

Thousands of children across Tennessee were in danger of losing access to the nutrition they rely on from school meals. Our school nutrition staff immediately stepped up, working day and night to figure out new systems of getting meals to students by meal drive-thru, pickup or drop-off, they made it happen.

Due to the crisis, even more families in our community are facing financial strain. In 2021, an alarming 1 in 6 kids could face hunger because of the pandemic. Yet, our school nutrition staff have been there, working tirelessly through the summer, through weekends, through holidays, to make sure kids in our state get the nutrition they need.

May 7 was School Lunch Hero Day, but every day we should say thank you to all the school nutrition staff across our state. You help guarantee kids are healthy and ready to learn and provide a constant in these challenging times. Your love and dedication for what you do and those you serve are noteworthy and extraordinary. Our gratitude cannot be overstated!

Marissa Spady

No Kid Hungry Tennessee

Concern for Patrick Henry tailwaters

Once known for the excellent fishing for big rainbow trout and brown trout, the Patrick Henry tailwaters are apparently in decline. What is the cause? Water quality, overharvest, lack of regulations (slot size limits). Other tailwaters in our region generate tremendous income opportunities from local and tourist anglers. Why not Patrick Henry?

Ronald Davidson

Colonial Heights

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