"Processed food was my emotional outlet.I consideredit to be my best friend and put it above anyone else." says 44-year-old Evon Dennis. It led her to become depressed, and at her highest, she weighed 250 pounds. She remembersbeing too embarrassed to go out, so instead, she would send her oldest daughter, then a teenager, to the grocery store to buy her next fix: Potato chips, sugary cereals, processed cheeses, and more.For Evon, it felt like her identity was taken over by being a junk food junkie. Now looking back, Evon wants to share her story of how she found help, went plant "exclusive" (all you consume are plants), and essentially saved her life. Today she weighs 110 pounds and is fit, happy and most of all, proud of the example she is setting her daughters, now 24 and 17 years old.

Evon tells the story of her darkest years, when her food addiction took over her life, until five years ago when she started to turn things around. Up until that point, year by year, her eating addiction progressed which is what happens with addiction: you need more and more of a fix to satisfy your urges, in order to get that high from your drug, in this case, junk food, cheese, and sugar. Evon recalls feeling overwhelmed andsad, especially knowing that she was raising her children around a mother who couldn't help herself. At her highest, she weighed250 pounds. By 2015, she had had enough and knew she needed help.She researched her options and foundOver Eater's Anonymous, where she discovered her struggles with food were not simply a matter of will power: She learned that her level of overeating was classified as an addiction, and it comforted her to know that she was not alone in her battle.

By attending group OA sessions, Evon was able to work on herself step by step. First, she cut out dairy which contains casein, an extremely addictive protein, which had been driving a powerful addiction to cheese, This helped her dull down her intense food cravings to other foods as well, like sweets and processed bags of chips.

A note about casein: When people say "I'm addicted to cheese," they may be half-joking but there is some truth to it, according toDr. Neal Barnard, founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine(PCRM), who has written a book about cheese addiction,He calls casein "dairy crack," because the "dairy proteins incheese can act as mild opiates. Fragments of casein protein, opioid peptides called casomorphins, attach to the same brain receptors as heroin and other narcotics. As a result, each bite of cheese produces a tiny hit of dopamine." When that rush subsides, it leaves your brain craving more, therefore you seek more cheese to get your fix.

For Evon dairy was the last step in making a transition to a whole-food plant "exclusive". Years ago she had given up meat and seafood, so dairy was the final step. She had a "come to Jesus" moment when she decided to ditch dairy and go on what she won't call a "diet" but prefers to call a "live-it" since it was her choice to stop killing herself and instead choose a path that took her toward a healthier lifestyle, one that allowed her to lose weight and kick her food addiction, get healthy and lead an exemplary existence for her kids.

She dove into a dairy-free, processed food free plant "exclusive" andchallenged herself to stay on track. "The challenge was difficult," she admits, but eating aplant exclusive "liveit" changed her life for good. "The weightstarted comingoff immediately," and she felt more energized with processed foods out of her system. "I felt fantastic," she recalls, and the weight dropped off, 40 pounds in the first four months.

Within the same year,Evon was doing well until she was faced with a family trauma,which sparked her to go off her healthy diet, and she found herself back at square one, fully in the thralls of food addiction all over again.Her long battle back left her depleted and feeling powerless, and depressed by the fact that she had gone back to her old ways. She was also feeling sick and had a nervous break-down landed in and out of the hospital,seemingly worse off than ever. Evon was emitted to the psychiatric unit and was diagnosed with mental illnesses, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Still, she couldn't help but remember how good she felt when she had started eating salt-free, oil-free, flour-free, alcohol-free, sugar-free, whole food plant "exclusive." She resolved to get back on track. One day, just like that, she decided to relive those moments.

Evon marked the date of her fourth attempt toeat this way as her"live-it" since she chose to live, not die. It was January 2020, but she was more committed than ever this time. She was determined to make the switch stick, not only for herself but for her children. Within the first month, she felt like a new person. " I couldn't be happier, I felt free, and the weight started quickly coming off again" she remembers."I was 174 pounds at the beginning of this year, and in less than 8 months she got down to 110 pounds."

Evon shared her vegan journey with The Beet,including hersecrets to success and motivation, and offering helpful advice for anyone struggling with food addiction. In the interview below, learn from Evon's challenges and how the power of a plant "exclusive" can help overcome life's biggest hurdles, by creating a path to "live-it!"

Evon Dennis: For my entire adult life, I struggled with overeating. I joined Over Eaters Anonymous in 2015 for the first time, and thats when I discovered my overeating was an addiction. It changed everything for me. I finally understood that my problem with overeating wasnt my fault. At the beginning of 2017, I decided to cut dairy out to heal my food addiction. I already had stopped eating meat 14 years ago and stopped eating seafood in 2015.

By 2017, I was ready to cut out dairy and become entirely plant-based. I was nervous about taking that final step, so I created a challenge for myself: I would only eat the food I made from scratch. It was a massive deal for me because as a single mom of two girls, I relied on boxed, canned, and prepared foods to feed them because I had convinced myself I didnt know how to cook. The challenge worked because it was so difficult; suddenly, cutting dairy out didnt seem so hard!

ED: During the challenge, I was continually thinking about and craving processed food, and I wanted to figure out why that was. I hated feeling like Im a prisoner of anything, person, or situation. I started researching, and I found so much information about refined food addiction. When I first stopped eating meat, my goal was to improve my health by eating more plants. I never forgot my initial plan, and once I realized that I was struggling with processed food addiction and over-eating, I was able to remember why I stopped eating meat in the first place. I had always wanted to eat plants, not just processed vegan junk food.

ED:The weight started coming off immediately, and now that I have all thesesubstances out of my system, I feel fantastic. I dropped 64 pounds in less than 8 months this year. When I first discovered this way of eating, at the beginning of 2017, I had lost 40, but then struggled to keep it off because I went through family trauma. I tried a few times between 2017 and the beginning of this year to eat this way again, but I committed myself fully to eating the way I do now at the beginning of this year. I was 174 pounds at the beginning of this year, and Im now 110 pounds.

ED: Processed food was my emotional outlet. I considered food to be my best friend and put it above anyone else. My children grew up seeing me like that, and at my worst, Id send my oldest to the store to buy more junk food. When I would have an over-eating episode, I would be ashamed to go outside because Id convince myself everyone who saw me would judge me for gaining weight. I was trying to drown out my feelings with processed foods, and I taught my children that. My children have born the brunt of my struggles of being around me at my worst, which keeps me inspired to stay well.

ED: I missed the freedom of not continually thinking about processed food. It was so painful to have to always think about food. Now, I have so much more energy and space in my brain to do incredible things: I just took my first lesson on how to fly a plane! I knew I wanted to get back to this kind of freedom.

ED: I did research on others who had successfully transitioned to asalt, oil, flour, alcohol sugar-free whole food plant exclusive.After all of my research, I felt like I had learned what I needed to fix my mind to eat this way successfully. One of the things I learned was the importance of starting my day off with leafy greens. I had seen research that showed that leafy greens were able to cut cravings, and thats exactly what I needed to happen. I knew it was vital for me to fall in love with the natural taste of whole food plants. I also made sure to stay hydrated and stop focusing so much on people-pleasing.

To make such a significant life change, I knew I had to stop caring about other peoples judgments. The other big realization I had was that I needed to change the way I labeled food. I had to stop using words I had specific associations with for food, like cheat days or falling off the wagon. When I stopped using those kinds of judgment words, I finally could succeed in overcoming my addiction: I remembered that Im just a human being and that theres no such thing as perfection.

ED: I like to call it a live-it, not a diet because Im eating for my life! I eat salt, oil, alcohol, flour, and sugar-free whole food plant exclusively. I use the word plant exclusive instead of plant-based to make sure its clear that Im just eating whole-food plants. I only eat fruit, veggies, whole grains, and legumes. Im also a spontaneous person, so when I was getting back into cooking, I did a whole lot of playing around in the kitchen, just figuring out how to all these new things. Im an excellent chef now! I found that once Id abstained from sugar, salt, flour, alcohol, and oil for a certain amount of time, my cravings essentially went away. The only food cravings I feel now are related to good memories or environments. Now, I just eat whenever my body needs fuel.

ED: All things are working for my good. I love that one because what it means to me is: Ive already been through so much, and if Ive made it this far, I can keep going. I can keep pushing for myself, for my girls, because thats what mamas do.

ED: Be comfortable with yourself. Its a journey were going to be on for the rest of our lives, so we might as well get comfortable. Make this journey your own; its not anybody else. Dont let people interfere with your journey; it doesnt have to look like anybody elses. If you learn how to listen to yourself, youll learn when something isnt serving you.

If you loved Evon's story and want to keep in touch,visit her websiteto learn more and contact her on Instagram.

Read more here:
This Mom Kicked Food Addiction and Lost 140 Pounds. Find Out How - The Beet

Wild animal species like deer, antelope, gazelle, hares, birds, and riverine/marine resources are also found in small proportions in the faunal assemblages of both rural and urban Indus sites suggesting that these diverse resources had a place in the Indus diet, the study notes.

The pattern is similar at the sites in northwest India, where domestic and wild mammals, and smaller proportions of birds, reptiles, riverine fish, and molluscs were consumed.

This study is unique in that it has gotten to look at the contents of the vessels. Normally there would be access to seeds or plant remains. But through the lipid residue analysis, we can confidently ascertain that consumption of beef, goat, sheep and pig was widespread, and especially of beef, said Suryanarayan.

There is also evidence of hares and birds being eaten, although little evidence of chicken being a part of the diet, according to the study. Ledge-shouldered jars and large storage jars at Harappa have been linked to storage of liquids such as wine and oil, it says.

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Dominance of meat in the diet of people Indus Valley civilisation, says new study - National Herald

Everyone passes gas, and passing gas at night is normal. However, if a person experiences other symptoms at the same time, it could signal the presence of an underlying digestive issue.

Having gas in the digestive system is a normal part of the digestion process. The body gets rid of any excess gas by burping or through flatulence.

A person may experience pain if gas does not continuously move through the system or if it becomes trapped.

An increase in gas or pain can occur from eating foods with a higher chance of producing gas. In this case, making certain dietary changes may alleviate gas. Certain digestive disorders can also cause excess gas and discomfort.

This article will examine the potential causes of gas at night. It will also look at some treatment options and prevention tips for excess gas.

Having gas is normal. In fact, most people expel around 600700 milliliters of gas daily and pass gas around 14 times every day.

Even if people think that they burp or have flatulence too frequently, medically passing too much gas on a regular basis is uncommon.

People may experience gas at night due to eating close to bedtime. Specifically, lying down very soon after eating may cause indigestion, which can produce gas.

Also, eating a large meal can trigger some conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If a person eats their largest meal at the end of the day, they may experience gas at night.

Some people may also be more aware of their bodies when they have stopped their daytime activities and are relaxing at night. This may cause them to notice more gas.

People may be able to reduce gas at night by making certain changes to their dietary habits.

If a person has excessive gas at night and other symptoms are also present, there could be an underlying gastrointestinal issue.

There are several potential causes of gas at night. The following sections will look at these in more detail.

Many foods and beverages can cause gas, including:

Some people may have fructose intolerance, which means that they may experience gas, bloating, or diarrhea after eating substances containing fructose.

People may find it helpful to keep a food diary to see if any specific items cause excess gas. This can help them determine the amount of gas-producing foods or beverages that they can tolerate.

Avoiding or reducing the intake of certain foods or beverages may help reduce gas.

Swallowing air can also cause gas. People may swallow air by:

Most of the time, the body will release the majority of swallowed air through burping, and the remaining gas will pass through the intestines and out through the rectum.

IBS is a gastrointestinal condition that affects the large and small intestines.

Although there is no exact cause of IBS, some factors that may play a role in its development include:

IBS can cause other symptoms alongside gas, such as:

People can usually manage IBS symptoms by making certain dietary changes. These include:

The bodies of people with lactose intolerance cannot break down lactose, which is the natural sugar in dairy products.

People with lactose intolerance may experience the following symptoms after eating or drinking milk products:

A healthcare professional may carry out a breath test to diagnose lactose intolerance. The body produces certain gases, which a breath test can detect, if it is unable to digest lactose.

Avoiding or limiting the intake of products containing lactose can help people manage their symptoms.

Lactose-containing products include dairy, such as cheese, yogurt, and butter, as well as some processed and baked goods. Some medications may also contain lactose.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that causes damage to the small intestine when a person with it eats gluten.

Digestive issues are more common in children than in adults. Symptoms in children may include:

Symptoms in adults may include:

A healthcare professional may use an endoscope to take a tissue sample from a persons intestines to test for celiac disease. If they detect and diagnose celiac disease, the person will need to follow a gluten-free diet.

Some people may be sensitive to gluten, sulfur, or other substances in foods and beverages, and this can cause digestive issues.

These people may need to work with a healthcare professional to follow an elimination diet. An elimination diet can help identify specific foods or beverages that cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as gas and bloating.

People will usually follow an elimination diet for 48 weeks. During this time, they will eliminate the substance that they suspect is causing problems to see if their symptoms improve. They can then gradually reintroduce the substance to see how much of it their body can tolerate.

Gas can sometimes be a side effect of certain medications. These include:

If a person thinks that a medication is causing their gas, they can talk with a healthcare professional about alternative options.

To help prevent gas, people can try avoiding or limiting the following foods and beverages:

If a person finds that high fiber foods are causing their gas, they may wish to limit their intake for a few weeks before gradually increasing it again.

Some other things to try to prevent gas include:

If a person has a particular condition, such as IBS or a food sensitivity, avoiding trigger foods and working alongside a healthcare professional can help reduce or prevent gas.

Gas at night may affect a persons sleep quality. Gastrointestinal conditions may lead to sleep conditions, which can impact health and worsen gastrointestinal symptoms.

A person should seek treatment for any health condition they suspect because, without treatment, these can reduce quality of life and lead to complications.

A person should contact a doctor if other symptoms, such as the following, accompany gas at night:

A person should also seek advice from a healthcare professional if home remedies or dietary changes are not effective at relieving their symptoms.

Gas at night may occur for many reasons and could be a normal part of the digestive process. Eating a large meal before bedtime or consuming certain foods and beverages could trigger excess gas.

If a person has gas at night alongside other symptoms, a healthcare professional can check for underlying conditions.

People can reduce excess gas by making certain dietary changes. If a person has a medical condition that causes gas, treating the condition may reduce their symptoms and discomfort.

Read more from the original source:
Gas at night: Causes, treatment, and prevention - Medical News Today

Some people may experience constipation after diarrhea. Although it is uncommon, some medications or dietary changes may affect bowel movements and cause these drastic changes.

Some people may have underlying conditions that affect their digestive system as well.

Looking at other symptoms may help a person and their doctor identify the underlying cause. Treatment will vary based on the cause.

This article reviews some causes of constipation after diarrhea, treatments, prevention, and when to see a doctor.

It is possible to experience diarrhea after constipation, but it is not common.

This article outlines a few possible underlying causes.

A persons diet can often cause changes in bowel movements.

Some foods may irritate the intestines, though these foods will vary from person to person.

Some people may have an intolerance or allergy to certain foods. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) note that common food allergies could also lead to long-term symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea.

These common food allergens include:

The NIDDK indicate that eating these foods may cause a reaction in the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea.

If the symptoms occur occasionally but are frequent enough to cause annoyance, try keeping a food journal to keep track of diet and bowel movements.

This may help identify trigger foods and intolerances.

Learn more about which foods can cause diarrhea here.

A stomach or intestinal infection may cause temporary changes in a persons bowel habits and movements. For example, the norovirus, which is a temporary viral infection in the stomach or intestines, may cause diarrhea.

The symptoms occur as the bowels inflame, making it harder for them to absorb water, which causes diarrhea.

Some flu symptoms, such as a high fever, may dry the body out, which could lead to a change of symptoms from constipation to diarrhea.

Look out for other telling symptoms of an infection.

Other signs of a stomach infection include:

Learn more about a 24-hour stomach bug here.

In some cases, drastic changes in bowel movements could be due to a medicine a person has taken.

According to one review, some medications may have gastrointestinal side effects similar to the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

These medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antipsychotics, antidepressants, and metformin.

Anyone who experiences gastrointestinal changes after starting a new medication or adjusting a dosage should contact their doctor for more information.

Some of these changes may be temporary and will improve as the body gets used to a medication.

Every drug and body is different, so it is best to talk to a doctor in each case.

Learn more about the potential side effects of medications here.

Pregnancy causes various changes in the body. A persons hormonal fluctuations may affect the transit time of their bowel movements. For example, increased progesterone during pregnancy may reduce gut motility and lead to constipation in up to 38% of pregnancies.

A person can work with a doctor to find ways to ease any uncomfortable conditions or symptoms that occur during pregnancy, such as constipation and diarrhea.

Learn more about constipation during pregnancy here.

Someone who experiences constipation after diarrhea regularly may have an underlying digestive disorder, such as the following.

According to the NIDDK, IBS may cause fluctuations in the texture and consistency of bowel movements.

IBS symptoms can vary from person to person, but these changes generally occur along with other hallmark symptoms, such as:

IBS symptoms may also occur due to other triggers, such as eating something the body has a sensitivity to, high levels of stress, or changes in the gut bacteria.

The NIDDK indicate that there are several different types of IBS. Doctors categorize them according to the symptoms a person experiences, such as IBS-C for constipation or IBS-D for diarrhea.

A person may also have IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M). People with this condition may regularly experience both diarrhea and constipation.

A person with IBS-M experiences at least a quarter of their stools as hard and lumpy and at least a quarter as watery and loose.

Learn more about foods to avoid with IBS.

IBD is different from IBS. IBD refers to several conditions, including Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis.

These conditions can develop if the autoimmune responses are not working properly, and they do not respond to triggers correctly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), IBD causes chronic inflammation in different parts of the digestive tract.

Chronic inflammation can worsen symptoms and lead to damage over time.

Symptoms of IBD may include regular and persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, and rectal bleeding.

Symptoms may appear in response to certain foods or other triggers.

Learn more about the differences between IBD and IBS here.

Treatments for constipation and diarrhea will vary based on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.

For occasional cases, the person may only need to make minor adjustments, such as consuming more liquids and adding more fiber to their diet to improve stool consistency.

When a mild stomach infection is the culprit, a doctor may recommend that a person drinks plenty of fluids, such as water, broth, and electrolyte drinks.

After the infection clears, doctors may recommend a person take probiotics to help replenish their healthful gut bacteria.

Doctors may recommend different ways to control the triggers of IBS in each case.

The NIDDK state that doctors may recommend a range of treatments, including:

Learn more about other treatment options for IBS here.

There is currently no cure for IBD. The condition requires regular treatment and checkups with a doctor. Imaging procedures, such as a colonoscopy, can help doctors examine the bowels.

According to the Crohns & Colitis Foundation, doctors may recommend a number of different drugs, depending on the persons needs. These may include anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressant drugs, and specific drugs to relieve diarrhea or constipation.

Some people with IBD may require surgery.

Learn more about Crohns disease here.

It may not be possible to prevent constipation after diarrhea in every case. A person should note any personal symptom triggers and try to eliminate them. It is also important to pay attention to overall digestive health as well as diet and lifestyle factors.

Methods for preventing constipation after diarrhea may vary based on the cause and condition.

However, these tips may help:

Learn more about foods to avoid when Crohns disease flares up.

While experiencing constipation after diarrhea is uncommon, it is not usually a cause for concern. Often, a person has a stomach bug or has eaten something their body has trouble digesting.

However, it is important to pay attention to any other symptoms that may develop. Anyone who experiences severe symptoms or symptoms that last for several days should see a doctor.

A person should also see a doctor if they experience certain symptoms, including continuous pain, bloody stools, and regular fatigue.

Lengthy bouts of constipation may lead to impacted stools that are extremely hard to pass. This may lead to complications, such as hemorrhoids or tears in the anus skin from too much strain. In some cases, the stool may become too difficult to pass at all.

If it becomes very difficult or impossible to have a bowel movement, contact a doctor.

Continuous diarrhea may dehydrate the body. Pay attention to any symptoms of dehydration, such as:

Anyone noticing the signs of dehydration after regular diarrhea should also see their doctor.

Constipation and diarrhea may not commonly occur together, but it is possible. A few different issues can cause this rapid change in bowel patterns.

Managing symptoms may sometimes be enough, such as when a temporary infection or food intolerance has caused constipation after diarrhea.

More chronic symptoms may require medical treatment, and doctors will need to diagnose and regularly treat the underlying condition, such as in people with IBS or IBD.

Read the original:
Constipation after diarrhea: Causes and treatment - Medical News Today

Ben & Jerry's is teaming up with former NFL quarterback and social justice activist Colin Kaepernick to deliver fans a new non-dairy ice cream flavor, set to release next year. "Change the Whirled" features caramel non-dairy ice cream with fudge chips and graham crackerand chocolate cookie swirls. The name references Kaepernick's impact on social justice movements since the QB took a knee on NFL sidelines.

Currently, Kaepernick is focused on his organization Know Your Rights Camp, whichoutlines its mission "to advance the liberation and well-being of Black and Brown communities through education, self-empowerment, mass-mobilization and the creation of new systems that elevate the next generation of change leaders."

One hundred percent of the proceeds of this flavor will be going to Know Your Rights Camp and Change the Whirled is set to hit freezer shelves in supermarkets in early 2021. It makes sense that this new flavor is non-dairy since Kaepernick himself follows a plant-based diet and regularly advocates for it.

"Were proud to be working with a dedicated activist like Colin Kaepernick, whose work helped spark the international conversation around racial justice. Follow the graham cracker and chocolate cookie swirls as you dig into this cara-melt-in-your-mouth vegan dessert masterpiece and consider how you, too, can help change the whirled. We are so inspired by Colin Kaepernicks bold activism for racial justice that we did what we do best: We whipped up a euphoric flavor to honor his work." said the Vermont-based ice cream giant in a statement today.

This summer, Kaepernick teamed up with Impossible Foods to pass out vegan food to those in need in the San Francisco area, as well as donated over 4,500 of the plant-based Impossible burgers to a Los Angeles food bank.

See the article here:
Ben & Jerry's and Colin Kaepernick Team Up for Vegan Ice Cream - The Beet

By: Lifestyle Desk | New Delhi | December 9, 2020 10:50:46 amHere's how a few dietary tweaks can help protect your lungs. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

With a rise in ambient pollution levels, it is essential to ensure your diet is accordingly modified so that your lungs stay disease-free. It is important to note that stress from oxidative phenomenon plays an important role in causing diseases related to pollution. Therefore, nutrition plays a significant role in its prevention and management, and has also been shown to modulate the toxicity of pollutants, explained dietitian Garima Goyal.

Below, she recommends some foods to include in ones diet.

Vitamin A and carotenoids

Animal sources (milk and eggs), fortified foods, orange/yellow fruits and vegetables (carrots) are the main dietary sources of carotenoids, including /-carotene and lycopene, which are known as antioxidants. Their prescribed and supplemented intake inhibits inflammatory mediators and decreases the pro-inflammatory cytokine release in the airway, in turn protecting from free radical damage and enhances protective response.

Vitamin C and E

Low levels of vitamin C and E have been known to cause increased levels of O3 in the body which can lead to bronchoconstriction in response to pollutants and exacerbation of obstructive and allergic respiratory diseases. Diet supplement of fruits and vitamin E rich foods will play a proactive and protective effect on these regions and prevent further inflammation and also attenuate total antioxidant capacity to pacify O3 damage. Vitamin C has a researched and proven role in the prevention of COPD and lung cancer.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays enzymatic role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism in such a way that it decreases the severity of symptoms in already affected cells by regulating allergic responses, increasing smooth muscle mass and lung capacity. Hence, weekly intake of vitamin D, adequate calcium and phosphorus-rich food, and sun exposure is a must for people with liable lungs.

Curcumin

This phytochemical from turmeric has a potent anti-inflammatory effect along with anti-tumor, antifungal and antioxidant properties, especially in the lungs. It may also protect against the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Curcumin has some protective role against the DNA damage caused by arsenic, diesel exhaust, cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity, and POP associated cellular damage, explained Goyal.

Fats

Fats like Omega-3 oils (or n-3 polyunsaturated fats-PUFAs), found in fish oils, have the ability to reduce inflammation due to fine particulates which cause direct alveolar epithelial injury. It is known for its anti-coagulant properties which are protective in cardiac patients who have indoor and outdoor pollution exposure.

Choline

Choline is involved in several biological functions. Dietary sources of choline include meat, liver, eggs, poultry, fish and shellfish, peanuts, and cauliflower. Administration of choline reduces eosinophils and reactive oxidant species which lead to collagen degradation.

Apples

They are a rich source of fibre and are low in calories. In addition, they are packed with an abundance of vitamins as well as flavonoids which helps in maintaining a good respiratory system. Apples are also rich in quercetin, which is a flavonoid that aids in cleansing our lungs.

Peppers

A rich source of vitamin C, peppers help in keeping the lungs healthy over a long period of time. Vitamin C is said to be a potent antioxidant that has immense benefits for patients suffering from chronic lung disease. Vitamin C helps in the removal of toxins from the body which reduces the formation of free radicals, thus lowering the rates of lung tissue damage and promoting repair of the previously damaged tissues.

Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, etc. are some of the healthiest foods. They are an excellent source of lignans, which act as antioxidants and can help improve lung health..A modified diet, supplemented with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, can help and contribute to counteracting the detrimental effects of pollution, particularly respiratory pathway both upper as well as lower, Goyal said.

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Anti-pollution: Dietary tips to cleanse your lungs - The Indian Express

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Q: My dog is sick, and he has lost his appetite. Do you have any tips on how we can get him to start eating again?

A: It's distressing when our pets are sick and don't want to eat, especially since we can't explain to them that eating is an important part of their return to health. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that can encourage your dog (or cat) to start eating again.

Try baby food. Giving your pet the pureed meat in those tiny jars on its own, or mixed with some rice or his regular food may help to jump-start his appetite. It's not a long-term solution, but rather a strategy for getting him to eat again until he's starting to feel better. Then you can slowly transition him back to his regular diet. Before trying this, read the baby food's label to make sure it doesn't contain onion powder, which has health risks for dogs and cats.

Warm the food. Heating your pet's food on the stove, or briefly in the microwave, can increase its smell. If your dog can't smell it, he won't be inspired to eat it. Serve it just above human body temperature about 99 degrees Fahrenheit so that it's warm, but not hot. Stir it first to eliminate any hot spots. It can also help to use a damp washcloth to gently wipe away any mucus accumulation from your dog's nose so he can better smell what you're offering.

Offer small meals several times a day. Your dog might not feel like eating his normal amount of food all at once.

Ask your veterinarian about medication that can help. If your dog has an upset stomach, your veterinarian can prescribe nausea-relief medication or an appetite stimulant.

THE BUZZ

Heart disease, diet link still unclear

Veterinary researchers and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration have been investigating causes of nonhereditary dilated cardiomyopathy,which has been seen increasingly since 2014, with more than 1,100 case reports over a six-year period. The disease of the heart muscle, which results in an enlarged heart, is primarily linked to a genetic predisposition, but it is now occurring more frequently in dogs in which the disease is not commonly seen.

Increasingly, the nonhereditary form is thought to be a complex interaction of multiple factors such as genetics, underlying medical conditionsand diet. Potential dietary links include the use of ingredients such as potatoes (including sweet potatoes and red potatoes), peas and lentils in both grain-free and grain-containing diets. Those types of ingredients aren't new in pet foods, but their proportions may have changed over the years. Dry, canned, raw and home-cooked formulations have been named in the reports.

The FDA met in September with veterinary, academic and industry experts at Kansas State University, which hosted the scientific forum,to review current research and discuss findings. Veterinary cardiologists reported that veterinary treatment and dietary changes brought some good results in improving heart function when DCM was caught early. Among the areas for further exploration are ingredient levels and sourcing, bioavailability of nutrients, and diet processing, with the goal of finding common factors that may play a role. Pet food manufacturers have been asked to share diet formulation information to aid understanding of diet's role.

No recalls have been made of pet foods associated with nonhereditary DCM because the FDA does not believe it has substantive evidence that the diets are unsafe. Pet owners and veterinarians can check the FDA's website (fda.gov) for updates as research continues. Signs of DCM and other heart diseases include decreased energy, coughing, difficulty breathing, rapid respirations and collapse.

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by veterinarian Marty Becker and journalist Kim Campbell Thornton of Vetstreet.com. Joining them is dog trainer and behavior consultant Mikkel Becker. Send pet questions toaskpetconnection@gmail.com.

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Getting enough vitamins and minerals is essential for any healthy diet. And for vegans, its especially important to get adequate amounts of nutrients like vitamin D and B12. But those who are vegan also need to ensure that theyre consuming enough of another important mineral: iodine. But what exactly is iodine? Why is it so important? And what are the best vegan sources of iodine?

Julieanna Hever, MS RD CPT, known as the Plant-Based Dietitian, is the author of The Healthspan Solution and Plant-Based Nutrition (Idiots Guide). She tells LIVEKINDLY that because the body doesnt produce iodine naturally, its an important part of any diet.

Iodine is an essential trace mineral that needs to come from diet, fortified foods, or supplementation, she says.

Its a crucial component of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism in the body, and play roles in neurological function, protein synthesis, and immune function, she adds.

The body requires iodine in order to produce these thyroid hormones. In addition to regulating the bodys metabolism, thyroid hormones control digestive, heart, and muscle functions. Iodine is also important during pregnancy and infancy because the mineral promotes brain and bone development.

According to the World Health Organization, the recommended dietary allowance for iodine for the average person is 150 micrograms (mcg). For pregnant and lactating people, the recommended amount is 250 mcg. Children up to the age of six require 90 mcg per day, and children between the ages of six and 12 need 120 mcg per day.

The American Thyroid Association (ATA) indicates that prior to 1920, iodine deficiency was prevalent in much of Canada and many parts of the U.S., including the Great Lakes, Appalachian, and Northwest regions. The Association now estimates that approximately 30 percent of the global population is at risk of iodine deficiency. But how do vegans fare in regards to their iodine intake?

A recent study out of the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment in Berlin found that one-third of the vegans assessed were iodine deficient. However, the cross-sectional study only included a sample size of 72 adults. The blood and urine samples of thirty-six people following a plant-based were compared to the remaining 36 adults, who were omnivores.

But is this indicative of a vegan diet as a whole? Hever says vegans do need to ensure theyre getting enough iodine in their diet.

Iodine remains a public health concern around the globe. And vegans are one of the groups at an increased risk for iodine deficiency, she explains.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), not getting enough iodine can impede the bodys ability to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones.

The health issues that arise as a result of this are called iodine deficiency disorders. Examples of these disorders include endemic goiter, learning disabilities, and hypothyroidism. The latter condition, which results in an underactive thyroid, is caused by severe and prolonged iodine deficiency.

Iodine deficiency does require a medical diagnosis. Symptoms of iodine deficiency include a lump or swelling of the neck, fatigue, sensitivity to the cold, and constipation. However, getting too much iodine in the diet can also result in similar symptoms. The NIH indicates that high iodine intakes may cause thyroid gland inflammation and even thyroid cancer.

Iodine is commonly found in non-vegan foods, such as fish, eggs, and dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk. But there are a number of plant-based foods that are rich in iodine. Here are seven of the best vegan sources of iodine that may help you get more of the mineral in your diet.

Sea vegetables are one of the best sources of iodine, Hever says. And according to the NIH, seaweed like nori, wakame, and kombu kelp contains some of the most iodine compared to other foods. Ten grams of dried norithe type of seaweed commonly used to make sushicontains 232 mcg of iodine. This is well above the 150 mcg recommended dietary allowance for iodine.

You can thank iodized salt for eliminating much of the iodine deficiencies found in the U.S. in the early 1900s, according to the ATA. Although it resembles plain salt, iodized salt is table salt that is mixed with small amounts of various salts of the iodine. But a little sure does go a long way! Approximately a quarter of a teaspoonor 1.5 gramsof iodized table salt contains 76 mcg of iodine. Stock up on iodized salt here.

Dont get too excited: Not all bread is high in iodine. But if you needed a good excuse to snack on breadthis is it! Certain kinds of whole-wheat and white bread are made with an iodate dough conditioner. Just one slice of these types of bread contains 198 and 185 mcg of iodine, respectively.

In addition to being a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, iron, and potassium, pruneswhich are dried plumsare another great source of iodine. Consuming just five dried prunes provides about nine percent of the recommended daily value, which is about 13 mcg. Snag a bag of dried prunes here.

Although pasta on its own isnt a good source of iodinewhen boiled in water with iodized salt, you can get 36 mcg of iodine per serving. If youre looking for tasty pasta recipes to make to up your iodine intake, try making this vegan pasta featuring a creamy cashew sauce with mushrooms and asparagus.

Granted, canned fruit cocktails rank relatively low on the iodine content scale. Although the canning process reduces some of their vitamin content, half a cup of canned fruit cocktail in light syrup contains six mcg.

LIVEKINDLY is here to help you navigate the growing marketplace of sustainable products that promote a kinder planet. All of our selections are curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, LIVEKINDLY may earn a commission.

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Cats in the U.K. who happened to be on a raw meat diet may have passed tuberculosis to their human counterparts, according to an investigation conducted by veterinary medicine expert Conor OHalloran of the University of Edinburgh and his colleagues.

The investigation was launched after 47 cats presented with suspected or definite infection with Mycobacterium bovis, the bacteria responsible for bovine TB, the Daily Mail reports.

Mycobacterium bovis was found to have caused skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, respiratory problems, lethargy, lost appetite and weight loss, in the cats.The common denominator in the study was the raw meat diet, which was reportedly traced back to a single British supplier, who has since removed products from the shelves in a recall.

The investigation also said that latent tuberculosis was found in four of the animal's owners and a veterinarian, the Daily Mail reported. They also said that one owner required treatment to address the infection.

The investigation suggested that the human cases could represent zoonotic transmission from these cats, or infection from handling the contaminated food.

Our results provide compelling evidence that the commercial raw diet of these cats was the likely route of infection in this outbreak of cases, the researchers wrote. Investigations revealed affected cats were mainly indooronly, and had been fed the same commercial raw food as at least part of their diet. This diet was recalled by the manufacturer due to failure of statutory meat inspection of the component venison.

The Daily Mail reported that there were only been six documented cases of humans catching tuberculosis from cats prior to this study, and Public Health England has reported that the risk of transmission from cats to humans is low.

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From Good Housekeeping

New research suggests a "green" Mediterranean diet plan may help boost your cardiovascular health, and weight loss goals, more effectively.

A study found that those who made four tweaks to the classic diet plan lost more weight and improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels while also curtailing their calorie intake.

A nutrition expert explains why any form of the Mediterranean diet can help you improve your health, and how to get started.

There's a reason why Mediterranean diet plans are consistently ranked the healthiest for people wishing to not only lose weight, but revolutionize their health entirely. At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our registered dietitian crowned the Mediterranean diet this year's best as the diet's staples lean proteins, seafood, crunchy vegetables, and plenty of healthy fats lead to immense cardiovascular benefits and fights inflammation. Plus, it promotes sustainable weight loss for people who aren't willing to sacrifice entire food groups (ahem, keto)! So imagine our delight when a new study, published this month in BMJ's Heart, claimed that a few small tweaks to the diet may accelerate its effects on heart health.

Researchers behind the study call it the "green" Mediterranean diet, a refined version of the diet plan that supercharges your daily meals by asking you to reach for more fiber and less red meat. What is the diet, exactly? The updated version requires people to cut red meat almost entirely out of their diet for best results, making more room for fiber and healthy fats sourced from lean protein. To make up for any deficiency, dieters are asked to consume what's known as Wolffia globosa, or a byproduct of duckweed, an aquatic plant. Plus, you'll need to incorporate 28g of walnuts per day into your snacking, and consume at least 3 cups of green tea (if not more).

Scientists arrived at this conclusion after splitting nearly 300 men and women into three groups, asking them to follow different diets over the course of 18 months. The first group simply received advice for upping their fitness and eating a healthier diet; the second group, however, was instructed to follow a regular Mediterranean diet and were placed on a calorie-based plan, as well as the same fitness advice. But the third group followed the "green" Mediterranean diet, eating the same amount of calories as the other Med group, albeit with the duckweed protein shake served at dinnertime, green tea throughout the day, added walnuts, and advice to avoid red meat entirely.

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Those on the green version of the diet saw the best, most substantial changes to their health six months later; they had the biggest drop in cholesterol and blood pressure. Plus, this group lost roughly 14 pounds in just six months.

Here's the catch, though all of the groups saw beneficial results, explains Brierley Horton, MS, RD, a registered dietitian and nutritionist who has reviewed Mediterranean diet plans for years. All groups lost weight, including those on the regular Mediterranean diet (around 12 pounds!), and waist sizes slimmed down amid all participants. The same trend was true for cholesterol levels. "Yes, the 'green' Med diet group had better results but the Mediterranean diet still provided improvement for the other group in the study," she explains.

Below, Horton walks us through what you need to know about the study's updated guidelines for Mediterranean diets, plus how you can incorporate a Med-diet-friendly protein shake into your routine.

If you haven't heard of it, you're not alone. Horton says research published in 2017 put this edible plant-protein, also known as Asian watermeal, on the map for most. A MentalFloss report claims duckweed, which has a flavor profile similar to watercress, is the smallest fruit in the world, but Horton explains that it manages to pack in a lot of protein nonetheless. Researchers have previously found that the protein counts in duckweed can be equal to "40% of [its] dry weight" in some conditions. "It's water-based, which is probably the reason why duckweed also manages to be a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids," Horton adds.

But you've probably never seen a duckweed supplement in the health aisle or even at a

specialty store, as this protein is often mixed in with other sources to make "plant-based" supplements on the market today. The study indicates that dieters were given a specific frozen product made by Mankai, but Horton says it's unclear if the study's sponsors had any input on including this particular brand.

Don't fret if you can't find pure duckweed supplement: Horton says you can still pack in extra protein and omega 3s into your routine with a protein shake made with hemp, chia, or flax seeds. "Without getting into a nitty-gritty comparison to duckweed, all three of those seeds have high sources of omega 3s in them, and they're great sources of protein, and they're widely available to all of us right now."

While more research needs to be done in order to understand why this version of the Mediterranean diet prompts better results, it's clear that cutting out any amount of fatty, processed red meats will lead to better health. "People who tend to dip into vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, they're just healthier overall, right? They have better markers for cardiometabolic risk, and less chronic inflammation," Horton explains. "Since the green Mediterranean diet is supplementing meat with plant-based protein in duckweed and other staples, it's not surprising that health is improving and then you also consider walnuts, which also have high amounts of omega 3s just like duckweed. Individually, these staples are good, and now they work together."

Remember: the "green" Mediterranean diet requires you to cut down on red meat for best results, to snack on a few handfuls of walnuts each day, to make a protein shake (either with duckweed protein or a similar substitute), and to drink 3 or 4 cups of green tea as well (which is healthier than soda or coffee). Cutting down or eliminating red meat looks different for everyone, Horton says: if you can slowly reduce the frequency that you're eating red meat, that's a good start.

You'll also be able to enjoy these staples:

Produce: Everything under the sun, basically, from tomatoes to cauliflower and spinach to kale. Nearly all fruits (as long as they are unprocessed) are on the menu, too.

Whole Grains: Items like farro, barley, whole oats, brown rice, and even whole-grain breads and pastas in moderation.

Lean protein: Chicken and turkey included, as well as plant-based options like tofu.

Seafood: Salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel, and herring, all prepared as simple as possible (grilled or sauted, not fried!).

Unsaturated fats: Olive oil and yogurt rather than butter and milk.

Nuts and seeds: Your favorites included!

If giving meat up entirely is a challenge for you, you can take a few steps to enjoy it without derailing your diet. First, select a cut of meat that is physically lean: "Go for a filet rather than a large ribeye," Horton advises. Second, make sure you're choosing fresh meat rather than processed products: "Avoid things like processed pork or deli meats," she adds. Lastly, if you have a hankering for bacon or a processed meat, Horton says try incorporating a smaller amount into an otherwise healthy dish. "It's about using it as a garnish or in the same style as a condiment, right? Put a dash of bacon or ham into what you're cooking, to add the flavor and enjoy it, without actually eating an entire plate of it on its own."

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Everyone Is Talking About the New 'Green' Mediterranean Diet Here's What You Need to Know - Yahoo Lifestyle