10 Surprising Facts About Peanut Allergies

Peanut allergies are one of the most widespread food allergies in the United States—in fact about 3 million Americans can’t consume peanuts. Peanuts are not actually nuts but legumes, like soybeans and peas. All other nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds, etc) are tree nuts.

While other types of allergies may wear off later in life, peanut allergies tend to stick with a person forever, with only 20% of people outgrowing them. Peanut allergies are one of the most common food allergies in children, along with milk and eggs.

RELATED: 20 Ways to Stop Allergies

With food allergies, your immune system overreacts to something harmless. You respond to normal foods as if they are foreign invaders. As a result, the body releases the chemical histamine and other compounds that can cause breathing trouble, throat swelling, itchy lips, nausea, and vomiting.

RELATED: 31 Everyday Things You Didn’t Know You Could Be Allergic To

The causes of food allergies aren’t known, but they are more common in families with other allergic conditions, like asthma and eczema. When someone reacts to peanuts, it can become a life-threatening event, especially if the person goes into anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a dangerous multi-system reaction that can cause trouble breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and shock. However, rapid treatment with an epinephrine injection can reverse anaphylaxis. Autoinjectors (such as the brand name injector is EpiPen) should be carried by people at high risk as a safety precaution. It’s also important to avoid any foods that contain peanuts. Be sure to read packaged food labels for red flags, including whether a product was processed near peanuts. 

10 Surprising Facts About Peanut Allergies

8 Collective Facts You Should Eat Kiwifruit Everyday

Kiwi was brought from China to New Zealand during the early 20th century by the missionaries. Kiwi fruit is known as the Chinese gooseberry. It is an edible berry. It is oval in shape with brown, hairy cover. It is green in color with black, edible seeds rowed in the center.

There are over 400 varieties of this fuzzy fruit, which grows off of vines on a trellis, much like grapes are cultivated. It is a very healthy fruit with dense nutritional value. It contains a high amount of antioxidants, flavonoids, and phytonutrients.

Nutritional Value of Kiwifruit

Kiwi provides a broad range of nutrition such as fiber, phytonutrients, folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.

8 Reason You Should Eat Kiwifruit Everyday

Cancer

Kiwi fruit is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients, and flavonoid that make it highly beneficial to protect from cancer. Kiwi fruit has been traditionally trusted in the Chinese folk medicine for their effectiveness in healing various types of cancers such as liver cancer, breast cancer, stomach cancer and lung cancer. Extracts of the kiwi fruit inhibit the proliferation of cancerous cells and protect endogenous DNA damage.

Improve Vision

Kiwi fruit is effective to preserve eye vision. It contains carotene and Vitamin C which protects from free radicals and oxidative stress. In the research, it was found that eating kiwi fruit prevents eye vision loss.

Prevent Diabetes

Kiwi has a low glycemic index which makes it suitable for the individuals with diabetes. A study conducted on kiwi extracts demonstrated that consumption of kiwi helps in the regulation of adipogenesis which is critical for the prevention of diabetes.

Boost Immune System

Being rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, kiwi provides protection for the cells from free radicals, particularly the DNA. Some studies also have shown that kiwifruit also provides a stronger immune system to those who regularly consume kiwifruit.

Beat Stress & Depression

Kiwi contains inositol, a precursor of an intracellular second messenger system, which helps in reduction of anxiety levels, relieving you from stress and depression.

Strengthen Bone

Kiwi fruit contains a right amount of calcium, potassium, Vitamin K, and magnesium. These nutrients are essential for the development of healthy bone. Apart from this, it contains potassium that is required for the development of bone.

Weight Loss

The low glycemic index and high fiber content of kiwifruit prevents a big insulin rush unlike other fruits with high sugar content. This prevents the storage of fat, thus making this fruit beneficial for weight loss.

DNA Protector

DNA damage is one of the leading causes of cancer. Kiwi being rich in antioxidants combination helps in prevention of cells DNA from oxidative damage. This property of kiwi can thus prevent from cancer.

Sources:

stylecraze.com, wiki-fitness.com, nextdoorlab.com, nextdoorlab.com

More Article:

8 Collective Facts You Should Eat Kiwifruit Everyday

Facts and Myths about BPA Everyone Should Know

Facts and Myths about BPA Everyone Should Know

103 Oatmeal Nutrition Facts For Healthy Life

Oatmeal is a very healthy meal that should be added to everyone’s diet list or foods they want to get because it will make them feel happy and healthy in many different ways. Here is a list of 103 oatmeal nutrition facts:

1. Oatmeal is a whole grain cereal.

A very important oatmeal nutrition fact is that it is whole grain. Whole grain items are very healthy and good for you. Whole grain is also a very important item on the food period that should be eaten a lot if you want to keep a healthy diet.

2. Very good source of fiber

Oatmeal’s high concentration of fiber can help you keep your digestive system on track in a healthy way. Keeping your digestive system on track is a very important step in someone’s goal to lose weight.

3. Contains many vitamins

Having many vitamins per day is a great part in any diet to ensure that your body will remain healthy. Without vitamins the body will not be as strong as it should be.

4. Oatmeal contains many minerals

5. oatmeal is also very high in antioxidants.

Antioxidants help clean out all of the bad stuff in your body. A very important oatmeal nutrition fact is that it has these antioxidants that will help to remove the bad things in your body.

6. Oatmeal can help lower blood sugar.

7. Oatmeal can help lower cholesterol level.

8. Oatmeal is considered a very healthy food

A oatmeal nutrition fact that you want to keep in mind is that it is very healthy even though it doesn’t seem like it would be because it tastes so good.

9. Oatmeal can be made in many different ways

10. Oatmeal is 66% carbohydrates, 17% protein, 7% fat and 11% fiber.

11. Oatmeal has been around for a long time

Oatmeal has been around since the B.C time, ancient China discovered while the Ancient Greeks made it into a meal that people could eat.

12. oatmeal is very popular

Many people enjoy oatmeal and know about it benefits. The popularity of oatmeal needs to keep spreading so everyone knows about its long lasting good effects.

13. low in calories for how filling it is

14. you get full easily

You don’t have to eat a lot of oatmeal in order for you to be full. Just a serving of oatmeal for breakfast can keep you full and energized the whole day.

15. you will stay full for a while

16. You will regulate your digestive system

17. You will get your daily intake for fiber-mostly

18. You will get full easily

Being full for longer will help you not to eat a lot throughout the day. While you are full you can work on working out and not be hungry while doing so.

19. Having fiber will help you if you have digestive problems

20. Oatmeal was first used in Ancient china and ancient Greeks converted them into a porridge or a regular meal.

21. Oatmeal is very cheap

Oatmeal is one of the most inexpensive foods you can buy. Oatmeal goes for very cheap and is very easy to make. You can save money and be healthy at the same time.

22. Many Americans love oatmeal

23. Oatmeal is a plant based food

24. Very easy to make

Oatmeal can just have water added to it then be heated up in the microwave and still taste very good. Some harder ways to enjoy oatmeal are to bake it into a cookie or energy bar, but these options also taste very good.

25. Very easy to eat

26. Delicious bowls you can make for a low price a month.

27. You can cook it many different ways

28. Oatmeal can prevent heart disease

Many Americans are at risk for heart disease so why not help prevent it? With just eating a bowl of oatmeal a day it can be a great prevention for heart disease in such an easy way.

29. If you eat oatmeal every morning for breakfast it can reduce the chance of getting heart disease by a lot

30. If you leave out the extra ingredients it helps more with heart disease.

31. There are many heart healthy toppings you can use

32. There is biotin B in oatmeal

33. Biotin B is responsible for healthy metabolism and digestion

34. Oatmeal can contribute to great skin

35. Oatmeal can contribute to great hair

Many people want great hair and have tried many things to get it but it never works. For those who use heat styling products on your hair every day, oatmeal is a great way to restore when its fragile and brail.

36. Oatmeal can contribute to great nails

37. You can put almonds and china seeds on oatmeal which are also great in Biotin B

38. Oatmeal is great in beta-gleans

39. Beta gleans improve immune health, so it is fighting away bugs in your body

If you get sick a lot you should try eating oatmeal. All of the immune fighting ingredients in oatmeal make it so that it helps many not to get sick.

40. Oatmeal can prevent cancer

41. Oatmeal especially helps preventing breast cancer and colon cancer

42. You can put berries on top of your oatmeal for an even healthier effect.

43. Oatmeal can help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes

If you have diabetes or are scared of getting them you can eat oatmeal each day to make it less of a risk factor. Oatmeal greatly reduces your chances of getting type 2 diabetes by all of the antioxidants inside of it.

44. Oats contain over 300 grams of magnesium

45. Magnesium helps lower your blood sugar

46. They are digested slowly because of their high fiber so the magnesium will be able to go through the blood stream more easily.

47. Oatmeal reduces amount of blood sugar spikes

48. Oatmeal is a recommended way to get rid of constipation

49. Oatmeal can be made into a healthy way to eat cookies

50. Steele cut oatmeal is the healthiest

51. Oatmeal can lower blood cholesterol

52. Oatmeal has many carbohydrates

If you want to build muscle and gain weight oatmeal is a great food source that can help you achieve that. Oatmeal has many carbohydrates allowing your body to be able to build up more muscle mass.

53. Oatmeal contains more B vitamins than any other breakfast

54. Oatmeal can also be used on skin to relieve dry skin

During the winter seasons when your skin gets dry, you should use oatmeal to help relieve your dry skin. Dry skin can be a very big issue, but by using oatmeal, it can help restore your skin to be healthy again.

55. Steel cut oats are more healthier because they are usually higher in fiber than old fashioned oats

56. Oatmeal contains many avanenthramides

57. Oatmeal can fight inflammation

58. Oatmeal can help someone with fighting obesity

If you are very unhealthy and looking to lose weight oatmeal should be on your diet plan. Eating oatmeal in the morning can help reduce the cravings that you have throughout the day. Reducing junk food cravings is a very important way to see accurate results on your body.

59. Oatmeal for breakfast will keep you full till lunch

60. Oatmeal can enhance your workout if you eat it prior

61. Oatmeal can make someone has a lesser risk of a stroke

62. Oatmeal can make someone have a lesser risk of a heart attack

If you are worried that all of the junk food you eat will make you get a heart attack in the future you should replace the junk good with oatmeal. Oatmeal reduces the risk of someone getting a heart attack by a lot so it is highly reccomended that you eat oatmeal if you want to avoid that situation.

63. Oatmeal produces bifid bacteria

64. Oatmeal is great for your guts

65. Oatmeal is a very easy natural beauty product

66. Oatmeal is a very popular drug store product

67. Oatmeal withstands poor soil conditions

68. Oatmeal can come in many different flavors

69. Oatmeal is very easy to make

70. You can make overnight oats if you’re on the go

Overnight oats taste very good and are easy to make. If you know you are going to be in a rush to get out the door in the morning you should make some oats the night before. Overnight oats sit overnight so that it helps it thicken. Overnight oats taste great as well.

71. Oatmeal will keep your digestive tracks happy

72. If you bathe in oatmeal your skin will be smooth

73. Oatmeal makes you and your body feel happy and healthy

74. Oatmeal can help you have less hunger cravings

75. Oatmeal is very low in fats

76. Oatmeal stabilizes blood sugar

77. Oatmeal is safe if your gluten free

If you are gluten free and are looking for things to eat that are good you should try oatmeal as part of your daily nutrition. You will get the carbs you need to be able to have a lot energy.

78. You will have a 29% chance for a lower risk of heart disease if you eat them everyday

79. Oatmeal will help your body eliminate disease faster

80. Oatmeal doesn’t even taste bad

81. You can put flavoring in your oatmeal

82. Even when oatmeal is flavored or isn’t flavored it tastes great either way

83. Oatmeal stays in your stomach longer than junk food

84. Nothing can keep you full like oatmeal

85. Oatmeal can help break old habits

If one of your old habits is constantly eating junk food this can help change it. By eating a bowl of oatmeal each day it will provide you with those sugar cravings and virtually get rid of them.

86. Oatmeal can virtually remove cholesterol.

87. Oatmeal can remove a lot of the bad stuff in your body

88. Oatmeal can strengthen the body

89. Oatmeal can strengthen your teeth

90. you quill have lasting energy throughout the day

91. Oatmeal can make you feel better about yourself

92. Oatmeal is a healthy low calorie food

93. You can eat oatmeal at any time of the day

94. Oatmeal will make your body happy

There are many benefits that are in oatmeal. Oatmeal can make someone into a very healthy happy person. More people should be switching to oatmeal as their breakfast routine.

95. You can enjoy a food that’s good for you

96. Oatmeal can improve your mood

97. You should add oatmeal to your diet plan

98. Oatmeal tastes very good

99. It can be made into many different things

Oatmeal can be eaten in many different ways so you can have fun with it. This is important so that you will never get bored of eating it because you can eat it in many ways.

100. Oatmeal bars can be made for a good source of energy

101. The heart gets healthy after keeping oatmeal apart of your diet

102. Oatmeal can make you feel your best and look your best

103. Oatmeal keeps you in shape

If you’re looking to get back in shape you should add oatmeal to the list of stuff that’s going to help you because this heart healthy food will do just that. Oatmeal lowers cholesterol and chance for a stroke so you can get your body back on its normal track while eating other healthy foods as well.

Sources:

http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/breakfast-cereals/1597/2

https://authoritynutrition.com/foods/oats/

103 Oatmeal Nutrition Facts For Healthy Life

The Marijuana Industry in Arizona: 5 Need-to-Know Facts

Marijuana is a booming business in Arizona and with more companies popping up every day, the industry continues to grow. In 2014, the Arizona Department of Health Services reported that over 10 tons of marijuana was sold through local dispensaries. That grossed an impressive revenue of approximately $ 110 million dollars!

Today, patients who cultivate their own plants are no longer able to do so within 25 miles of a dispensary. And with over 80 dispensaries in Arizona, the pot business is good! Here are just five need-to-know facts about the changing cannabis industry in Arizona:

5 Need-to-Know Facts About Cannabis in Arizona

1. We Are Still Fighting for Legalization. Marijuana has been legal for medicinal use since 2011. The Campaign to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol is now on the November 2016 ballot as Proposition 205. Under the Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act, anyone over the age of 21 would be able to possess up to one (1) ounce of marijuana and cultivate six (6) plants of their own in a secure area. This initiative would include a 15% retail tax on marijuana sale by licensed businesses that would be allocated directly to the education system. A much needed aid! A recent survey of 500 Arizona voters revealed that 49% of voters would reject legalization for recreational use, 43% would vote “yes,” and around 8% of voters were undecided according to the Arizona Republic.(1)


2. Our Growers Are Educated. The Arizona Department of Health Services allows qualifying patients to grow their own medicine. For this reason, many people have acquired a green thumb but that doesn’t mean that the average Arizona resident can maintain 6 healthy cannabis plants. That’s where professionals come in. Colleges across the state including the University of Arizona now offer classes and degree programs to prepare students for the professional and sustainable cultivation of marijuana. The budding industry has help develop thousands of lucrative jobs in research, biology, chemistry, law, horticulture and medical treatment sectors. Now that’s higher education.


3. There is a Sense of Community. When medical marijuana co-ops first opened in Arizona, everyone had something different to bring to the table. Menus were loaded with distinctive cannabis-infused items to choose from: homemade baklava, cookies, candy… People were making salad dressings, peanut butter – you name it! The same people that were in those collectives are still creating concoctions and sharing them with the rest of us cardholders. Even with dispensaries, the friendship remains and innovators are still happily incorporating cannabis into their healthy lifestyles. And that’s a great thing!


4. Cannabis is an OTC Takeover. You may have already heard that marijuana is safer than pharmaceutical drugs. What you may not know is that many OTC (over the counter drugs) contain acetaminophen. The problem with that is that a staggering amount of people accidentally overdose every year. This added up to over 1,500 deaths in the United States – just between 2001 and 2010! Acetaminophen overdose sends close to 80,000 people to emergency rooms every year and is the leading cause of acute liver failure according to the National Institutes for Health. These shocking statistics pave the way for a not-so-hostile marijuana takeover. If Americans replaced just one NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) like Tylenol with marijuana, hundreds of lives could be saved.(2-3)


5. We Aren’t Pot Heads. In Arizona, it’s estimated that between 2013 and 2014 there were approximately 52,374 active cardholders. As a legitimate medical patient, I can tell you that we are NOT just sitting around getting high. Chatting with other patients at clinics, I have become accustom to discussing topics including the laboratory data for CBD (non-psychoactive component) content, THC (psychoactive component) content, flavor profiles and sales! Arizona dispensaries provide high-quality medicine to patients, and as we share in this new experience, collectively we are realizing that marijuana is highly effective for treating many different health problems. There are millions of ways to use marijuana, and many of them don’t include a high at all. Just consider topical products and CBD oil!

What’s Next for Cannabis in Arizona?

As Arizona continues to fight a grassroots battle for legalization, in November 2016 the game may change… in a BIG way. Currently, the average medical marijuana patient in Arizona consumes approximately 166 grams. But cardholders must be approved under these qualifying conditions: cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s), Crohn’s, Alzheimer’s, cachexia or wasting syndrome, severe and chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures (like epilespy), and severe and persistent spasms (like multiple sclerosis).

If Arizona voters vote “Yes” on Prop 205, marijuana use will be open to all citizens over the age of 21. Stay Tuned!!

References:

1. Wingett Sanchez, Yvonne. Poll: Arizona marijuana-legalization campaign could fail if voted on today? http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/politics/politicalinsider/2016/04/20/poll-marijuana-legalization-campaign/83250834/


2. Mosbergen, Dominique. Tylenol Overdose Risk Is Staggering; Acetaminophen Safeguards Remain Insufficient: Report. The Huffington Post. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/24/tylenol-overdose_n_3976991.html

The Marijuana Industry in Arizona: 5 Need-to-Know Facts

Coconut Sugar vs. White Sugar: The Facts

Coconut Sugar versus White sugar

Which is the healthier option?

You May be surprised by my response

 

I read numerous nutrition articles, research articles and health books weekly if not daily.    Most of the information is very helpful and informative.

Usually it leads me to ask more questions which then lead me to more research. Along the way I stumble upon some blogs-some very good ones and some really bad ones.

This blog post is created because of a blog I read on “Ways to Alter Recipes to make them Healthier” This was written by someone called “Dr. Donna” but no other information about her was provided.

While the article had many errors (and a few good points) the comment that made me laugh was this:

“Commit to NO sugar in a recipe.  You can do this by using coconut sugar instead”

Hmmm, last time I checked coconut SUGAR is still sugar!

What concerns me is that her post has been viewed over 46,000 times in the past year since it was posted!  How many of those people now have chronic health conditions due to their “sugarless coconut sugar” eating.

I’m sorry, what did she not understand in the wording “coconut sugar”

I admit that I use coconut sugar in some of my baked good recipes. BUT I would never mislead my guests or clients and say “here, try some of my no sugar added cookies!”

The Facts

• Some tout coconut sugar to have a lower glycemic index than regular processed/refined white sugar.  But if you look at the research, only a couple of studies have been done and on only a handful of people.  One study was done by a government that is one of the largest producers of coconut sugar in the world.


• Studies vary saying coconut sugar has a glycemic index anywhere from 35 to 54.  (White sugar is around 60).  For me, I need to see more research.


• Coconut sugar is higher in some minerals as opposed to white sugar BUT….


• In order to get the nutrient benefits from coconut sugar you would have to eat A LOT of it!  Eat whole foods instead.


• Regular table sugar is 50% fructose, 50% glucose.  You may see claims that coconut sugar is fructose free but in reality it is roughly 40% fructose.  Fructose gets processed by the liver and the excess get stored as fat.  Fructose contributes to heart disease, diabetes, obesity and in my opinion, mental health issues and systemic inflammation as well.


• Coconut sugar does contain some inulin which is a prebiotic fiber.  Again, how much do you need to consume to reap the benefits? Eat raw onion, raw garlic, raw asparagus and not overly ripe bananas for your prebiotic fiber instead!


• Some coconut sugar products are not 100% coconut sugar but instead a blend with cane sugar.  Know your products or ask someone who does know which products to use!


• If you are diabetic you should treat the consumption of coconut sugar the same as consuming refined white sugar.


• While it may be the better choice than white sugar, it can still impact your liver and blood sugar health.


• If you opt for coconut sugar, use it in small, limited quantities, not part of your daily intake.


• It has the same amount of calories as white sugar.

Bottom Line

Coconut sugar is still a sugar. It is a better option that GMO white processed sugar for the occasional baked good but don’t be misled. It is still sugar.  Use it as an occasional treat instead.

Coconut is a great source for healthy fats but in the form of coconut oil. Fat gives food its flavor. I make banana bread that really does not have any added sugar!  What gives it a great taste is the coconut oil and the bananas provide all the sweetness that you need.

Final Thoughts

There is so much information on the web and unfortunately much of it can do more harm than good. Always check the sources of the information provided and do further research. If you are still unsure, bring the information to a qualified professional in that subject area to get their take on the information.

I always research products and information. Most product companies that stand behind their products and their words are more than happy to respond to you and share more information.  I email and call companies all the time!

Sadly (for me, not for her!) there was nowhere to comment at the end of “Dr. Debbie’s” post to let her know of the error but I’m sure she is glad that I was unable to comment!

Sources

Bauman, E. & Friedlander, J. (2014) Foundations in Nutrition.  CA: Bauman College

Gunnars, K. (nd) Coconut Sugar-Healthy Sugar Alternative or a Big, Fat Lie? https://authoritynutrition.com/coconut-sugar/

Perlmutter, D. (nd) Coconut Palm Sugar-What’s the Skinny? http://www.drperlmutter.com/coconut-palm-sugar-whats-skinny/

Virgin, JJ. (8/18/14) Coconut Sugar: Healthier Sweetener of Another Pretty Name for Sugar? http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jj-virgin/coconut-sugar-healthier-s_b_5669084.html

Karen Brennan, MSW, CNC, Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition (candidate), author of the E book Tru Foods Depression Free Nutrition Guide; How Food Supplements and herbs can be used to lift your mood and owner of Tru Foods Nutrition Services, LLC believes in food first when addressing the root causes to your health conditions.  For more information, visit her website at www.trufoodsnutrition.com

As a nutrition professional, Karen Brennan does not treat, cure nor diagnose. This information is for educational purposes only.

Coconut Sugar vs. White Sugar: The Facts

Face the facts: competition and profit don"t work in health, education or prisons | John Quiggin

Following a long series of unsuccessful attempts at developing a workable lightbulb, Thomas Edison is supposed to have said, “I’ve not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” This quote comes irresistibly to mind when thinking about Tony Blair’s famous commitment to “what works”, as opposed to ideology, in public policy.

In retrospect, it seems that Blair, and like-minded reformers throughout the English-speaking world, have delivered an Edison in reverse. Edison experimented with many things that didn’t work, but ended up with a light bulb. Market-oriented reforms, particularly in the provision of human services like health, education and public safety, have begun with a working system and replaced it with a string of failed experiments.

Here are a few examples from recent news stories around the English-speaking world

These examples could be multiplied endlessly, and not as the result of a selective choice of reports. A Google search on terms like “PFI hospital” or “private vocational training” will produce dozens more reports, nearly all describing financial and human disasters.

Yet despite this string of disasters, the push for market-oriented reform goes on. In the US, the Obama administration continues to promote the failed idea of charter schools, and Obama allies like Rahm Emanuel have carried on the war against teacher unions. The conservatives in Britain have backed away from the worst failures of the PFI. However, they are still enamoured of other Blair ideas like converting local authority schools into “academies” despite the absence of any evidence of improved performance.

Even by comparison with these examples, the Baird government in NSW stands out. It is pushing ahead with the privatisation agenda in Tafe, despite the obviously disastrous nature of the results. It has outsourced teaching in prisons to companies whose staff lack teaching degrees.

Not content with that, the Baird government is outsourcing the provision of public housing. The likely winner, despite its failures here and abroad, is Serco, a firm prominent as both a beneficiary of, and advocate for, outsourcing of human services.

The Australian policy elite seem immune to evidence on the failures of markets in human services. The recent Harper review of competition policy in Australia suggested that, “Consumer choice should be placed at the heart of government service delivery, through policies to encourage diverse and competitive markets populated with innovative and responsive providers.”

But it is precisely the firms lauded as “innovative” and “responsive”, from the University of Phoenix to the shonky builders of PFI schools and hospitals, that have done most to hurt government service programs.

Sooner or later the advocates of reform will have to answer the Edison-Blair question: “What works?” And what works is traditional public provision. Through all of these failed experiments, the public sector, much-maligned and chronically underfunded, has carried on with the hard work of educating young people, treating the sick and providing the vast range of services needed in a modern society, on a the basis of an ethic of service to the entire community, and not merely those who can pay for premium service.

The only other model with comparable success is not-for-profit provision by organisations with a charitable or service mission. Church-run schools and hospitals, and activist-run services like women’s shelters and services for the unemployed and homeless, have complemented the public sector, meeting needs that have been unrecognised or underserved.

The issue is not, in the end, one of public versus private. Rather it is the fact that market competition and the profit motive inevitably associated with it is antithetical to the professional and service orientation that is central to human services of all kinds.

No matter how cleverly market reformers design incentive schemes, competition for profits will always find a way to subvert them. It is time we as a society recognised this, and returned to what actually works.

Face the facts: competition and profit don"t work in health, education or prisons | John Quiggin

Creeping privatisation of the NHS is borne out by the facts

The myriad different bodies that make up the NHS in England and their opaqueness, especially in regards to contracts to provide services, makes mapping the true extent of privatisation of public healthcare difficult.

But the available evidence bears out Owen Smith’s claim that NHS privatisation is increasing. However, it is less of an “explosion of privatisation” that the Labour leadership hopeful warns about and more a gradual, though inexorable, rise in the proportion of the NHS budget that is going to firms such as Virgin Care, Care UK and Bupa. It is also noteworthy that the private sector has been making ever bigger inroads into several key areas of NHS care, notably general practice, community services and mental health care.

Department of Health (DH) figures show that the amount of DH funding that has gone to “independent sector providers” more than doubled from £4.1bn in 2009-10, Labour’s last year in power, to £8.7bn in 2015-16.

Slow release privatisation has also seen the percentage of the DH budget finding its way into private hands rising from 4% in 2009-10 to 8% in the last financial year.

A few privatisation contracts involve huge sums. For example, several GP-led NHS clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in Staffordshire caused controversy in 2014-15 when they sought to hand 10-year contracts for cancer and end of life care worth £1.2bn to a private provider, though those plans have been held up after NHS England became involved. But most contracts are smaller, sometimes for a few million pounds.

In January, though, Richard Branson’s Virgin Care group – which has won growing numbers of NHS contracts – was awarded a £126m contract to provide a range of health services at hospitals in Kent, including home visits, walk-in centres and care in nursing homes. It is unclear what the impact of that tendering decision will be on the failed NHS bidder, Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust, which has lost a key source of income.

Similarly, there are serious concerns about the effect on Southport and Ormskirk NHS Trust now that West Lancashire CCG has opted to outsource a range of urgent care services, such as GP out-of-hours services and walk-in centres. Having rejected its local acute trust’s bid the CCG remains in talks with United Healthcare and Virgin Care about the contract.

“This group of people [the CCG] are taking decisions which are destabilising the future of our local hospital and could lead to NHS services being privatised,” local Labour MP Rosie Cooper said recently. Local residents were disgusted, she added. In its response, the CCG said: “This re-procurement of local community health services is standard practice for CCGs. This process is subject to national procurement legislation which requires the CCGs to enable both NGS and independent [private] providers to compete.”

Will this creeping privatisation continue? Almost certainly. The NHS’s financial squeeze, coupled with private firms’ ability to undercut NHS providers, plus the obligation imposed on CCGs by the coalition’s shakeup of the NHS in 2012, together mean that more and more CCGs are likely to feel obliged to outsource more and more contracts, despite concerns about the quality of service that may ensue.

Concern about the quality NHS-funded inpatient care for mental health problems in Priory hospitals is merely the latest reminder that private providers do not always meet the highest standards.

Concern about NHS privatisation has grown since the Conservatives won last year’s general election.

Some in the healthcare profession, such as Dr Kailash Chand, who until recently was the vice-chair of the British Medical Association, see growing outsourcing as part of an unacknowledged Tory plan to deliberately run down the NHS and pave the way for the replacement of its unique funding model with a new setup in which private health insurers and private medical care are central.

Last month the then health minister George Freeman called for an end to the “apartheid” between the NHS and private sector.

“In my party, we have to end the apartheid that suggests the private sector does all the innovation and entrepreneurship and the public sector just treats people … The NHS is the great engine of innovation that can drive that partnership,” he said in a speech to the Reform thinktank. There also needed to be “a debate about how we fund health and care in the 21st century”, he added. Freeman has since acquired a position of much greater significance under Theresa May, as chair of her policy board.

Creeping privatisation of the NHS is borne out by the facts

What Is Fenugreek Good For? Here Are seven Facts About It!

Fenugreek is a herb that is typically noticed expanding in the Mediterranean. It is one of the oldest recognized herbs employed by mankind and has been all around for more than 6000 many years. It is also believed that the ancient Egyptians consumed fenugreek and utilised it to prepare kuphi, a variety of incense used for embalming the dead. Fenugreek was prized for its healing properties as it is primarily utilized for helping in remedies for diabetes and cholesterol associated issues.

7 Extraordinary Overall health and Attractiveness Rewards Of Fenugreek

Breast Enlargement

Fenugreek is frequently utilised in several teas and other merchandise that help stability women’s hormones and/or enlarge the breasts. Consequently, a straightforward house remedy for breast enlargement is to make Fenugreek a element of your regular diet regime. A widespread suggestion is to eat up to 3g of Fenugreek seed per day.

Remedy Diabetes

Studies have shown that participants with kind 2 diabetes had substantially lower blood sugar levels after eating fenugreek seeds. Therefore, a suggested residence remedy for treating Variety 2 diabetes is to consume 500mg of fenugreek seed twice day-to-day.

Minimizes Cholesterol

Analysis scientific studies show that fenugreek can reduce cholesterol degree. Fenugreek assists to reduce the level of reduced density Lipoprotein (LDL) significantly, which can avoid different circumstances like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes. Fenugreek is a rich supply of fiber, which scrapes excess cholesterol off of the arteries and blood vessels of the body.

Remedy for fever

Fenugreek when taken with a teaspoon of lemon and honey can perform wonders to decrease fever by nourishing the physique. The soothing result of mucilage in fenugreek also helps to relieve cough and discomfort from sore throat.

Relieves constipation

Fenugreek adds bulk to the stool due to its substantial fiber material. This also makes it useful in treating constipation and diarrhea, while also relieving small indigestion.

Fat Reduction

Include fenugreek in your weight loss diet regime by chewing soaked methi seeds in the morning on an empty stomach. The normal soluble fibre in the fenugreek can swell and fill the stomach thereby suppressing your appetite and aiding your excess weight reduction objectives.

Avoid colon cancer

The fibre content material (saponins, mucilage, and so forth.) of fenugreek binds to toxins in the meals and flush them out. This in turn assists to shield the mucus membrane of the colon from cancer. Here is a in depth information on cancer.

Sources:

http://www.thehealthsite.com/conditions-situations/15-wellness-rewards-of-methi/

http://www.womenplanet.in/health-fitness/positive aspects-of-methi-seeds-fenugreek-methi-powder-methi-water-fenugreek-tea

http://www.foodofy.com/fenugreek.html

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What Is Fenugreek Good For? Here Are seven Facts About It!

12 Extraordinary Facts Hydrogen Peroxide Need to Be In Every Residence

Most men and women really do not know hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide(HP) is germicidal agent composed of water and oxygen. It’s been a staple in medication cabinets and initial assist kits for generations. HP is regarded the worlds safest all organic effective sanitizer. It kills micro-organisms by oxidizing them.

In reality, there are so many different uses for hydrogen peroxide For Overall health, Hygiene, Cleansing.

12 Incredible utilizes of hydrogen peroxide

Immune Program Booster

Our produces hydrogen peroxide via certain leukocytes, aka, white blood cells. By this hydrogen peroxide support to battle off, bacteria, viruses and harmful toxins.

Water Purifier

Hydrogen peroxide also use in water purification, just add a pint of hydrogen peroxide to one gallon of the water you use and the HP will help make sure that the water stays sanitary and risk-free.

Antiseptic mouth rinse

HP is a ideal mouth rinse. It whitens teeth and kills germs accountable for poor breath. It has been found that hydrogen peroxide tends to make a very successful and low-cost mouthwash for day-to-day purpose.

Widespread Cold

Hydrogen peroxide support to maintain you away from cold, some declare that applying a couple of drops of hydrogen peroxide in the ears is best practice to maintain cold at bay.

Toothpaste

Combine it with that other medication cabinet staple, baking soda, and you have acquired an effective toothpaste, it preserve teeth whiten and germs free.

Eliminate ear wax

Hydrogen peroxide remove ear wax effortlessly, place a couple of drops of HP into your ears. Keep it for minute or two, then place a couple of drops of olive oil. Soon after few minute, drain the fluid from your ears. Ear wax will move out.

Wellness

Your body tends to make Hydrogen peroxide to battle infection which should be existing for our immune system to perform accurately. White blood cells are known as Leukocytes. A sub-class of Leukocytes known as Neutrophils create hydrogen peroxide as the very first line of defense towards harmful toxins, parasites, bacteria, viruses and yeast.

Eye Care

Hydrogen peroxide can be utilised to clean speak to lenses – its very efficient for eliminating the dust that can create up on the lenses in excess of time.

Sinus Infections

When your sinuses are stuffy, it can be agonizing. A tablespoon of three% Hydrogen peroxide additional to 1 cup of non-chlorinated water can be utilised as a nasal spray. You can adjust the sum utilised of hydrogen peroxide Depending on the degree of sinus.

Toothache discomfort

Hydrogen peroxide also remedy toothache ache, for curing pain, you can gargle a mixture of coconut oil and HP. The antibacterial properties of HP aid to remove the bacteria that are causing the toothache soreness.

Disinfect your hands

Hydrogen peroxide best for disinfecting wounds, HP also use in hand washing. Just dip your hands into or spray them with diluted version of HP.

Hold freshness of vegetables

Hydrogen peroxide freshness your vegetables. Include about ¼ a cup of meals-grade Hydrogen peroxide to a sink complete of cold water and keep your veggies into it. Soak it for about 15 minutes. Then, rinse them and allow them to dry.

Deal with animal wounds

You can use Hydrogen peroxide on animal wounds as you would use on human wounds. Used HP onto your animal cautiously, and it will heal wounds with in couple of days.

Reference:

ohsimply.com

naturallivingideas.com

lusterbuster.com

12 Extraordinary Facts Hydrogen Peroxide Need to Be In Every Residence

8 Facts Soda Is Largest Well being Disastrous! Homemade Healthy Soda Recipes

Many of us drink soda as per wish. I clear you, nutritionally useful of soft drinks is zero and numerous of us aware that soft drinks are bad for the well being. It is mostly consist of filtered water and refined sugars. Men and women of United States eat far more soda drinks than any other country in planet. It is estimated that regular American drinks about 57 gallons of soft drinks each yr.

The wellness dangers of soda have as well long whether they are standard or not, drinking soda is virtually like smoking.

Here are 8 reasons that will make you consider twice prior to drinking soda.

Sort two diabetes

Many scientific studies link soda consumption with sort 2 diabetes, as this ailment affecting about 300 million individuals around the world. Drinking also considerably soda drink will decrease the insulin degree therefore insulin resistance.

BPA

BPA is chemical discovered in soda which prevents acids from reacting with metal. BPA is linked to altering hormones, obesity, cancers and infertility.

Kidney stones

Consumption of more soda drink will rising the element of kidney stone. Researchers analyzed more than eight many years, and located that people who consumed much more soda drink had a 23% increased threat of building kidney stones. Whilst taking coffee, tea, beer, wine, and orange juice instead, obtaining less possibility of kidney stone.

Increase fat and fat

Consumption of far more soda drink improve body fat and fat and therefore it make more tough burn unwanted fat and drop weight.

Large Stroke

A 2012 study discovered that consuming a soda most every day are 83% a lot more likelihood of stroke than other who rarely drink sugar-sweetened drinks. It found that substantial soft drink consumption is related with improved fat obtain, higher amounts of blood sugar and fats, and hypertension—which lead us to stroke.

Heart assault

A research over for two decades located that individuals who had about a can of soda a day had a 20% larger danger of having a heart assault or dying from a heart assault than individuals who hardly ever consumed sugary drinks.

Asthma danger

Research proven that drinking more than half a liter soda each day have large chance for asthma and other breathing situations.

Cancer

Caramel coloring found in many sodas is identified to trigger cancer. In accordance to California’s Strict Proposition only 16 micrograms per individual per day of four-methylimidazole is adequate to trigger cancer which in found in soda drinks, and there is 200 micrograms in a 20 ounce bottle!

Enhanced Blood Strain

Authorities have reasons to think that overconsumption of fructose, specifically in the type of soft drinks, leads to an improve in blood pressure

Homemade Healthier Soda Recipes

Ginger Ale

Substances:

Mix ½ cup hibiscus flowers
¾ cup coconut crystals
¼ cup ginger root
juice from ½ fresh lemon
pinch of salt

Instructions:

Put one cup filtered water in tiny saucepan.
Deliver to a boil, stir right up until all sugar is dissolved, strain into a glass jar, discard the flowers and root, and then combine three tablespoons of the resulting syrup with eight ounces of carbonated water.
Keep in the fridge and appreciate!
Lemongrass-lime leaf

Ingredients:

Mix ¼ cup lemon zest
¼ cup lime zest
20 kaffir lime leaves
two stalks lemongrass roughly chopped

Directions:

Put two cups water in a saucepan Carry to a boil, decrease heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Strain into a jar and chill.
Combine 2 Tbsp with the sweetener syrup of your selection, top with soda water and stir.

Sources and reference taken:

http://www.medicaldaily.com/pulse/soft-drink-dangers-eight-techniques-soda-negatively-affects-your-wellness-319054

http://edition.cnn.com/2015/03/27/wellness/cease-drinking-soda/

http://www.businessinsider.com/why-soda-is-bad-for-you-2013-five?IR=T

Go through also:

8 Facts Soda Is Largest Well being Disastrous! Homemade Healthy Soda Recipes

Vampire facials - the cold facts

The easy vampire facial, or Platelet Wealthy Plasma (PRP), is, by contrast, a stroll in the park (or by means of the graveyard if you favor), says Dr Loong.

The procedure entails extracting a couple of dessert spoons of the patient’s blood from their arm and spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the plasma – the fluid portion – from the red and white blood cells. The concentrated plasma, which is wealthy in platelets – the part of the blood with development variables – is then injected into the encounter. Some practitioners mix it with dermal fillers to additional plump up dilemma areas, such as beneath the eye.

The fundamental PRP therapy has been used for practically 20 years to accelerate the healing of wounds and burnt skin, and support athletes – which includes, reportedly, tennis ace Rafael Nadal – recover from injury. But it was when Dr Charles Runels from Alabama trademarked the title “Vampire Facelift” in 2010, for the duration of the craze for the Vampire Diaries and Twilight Saga, that the method became sexy for A-listers.

Barely a week goes by with no a celebrity this kind of as model Bar Refaeli posting an Instagram picture of herself having the treatment. The godmother of vampire facials is socialite Kim Kardashian, but even our personal sweet-faced Anna Friel has reportedly succumbed to the trend.

Dr Loong says there is high demand for PRP shots among London’s well-preserved set, and clients need to have only a spare lunch hour in which to have it done, using neighborhood anaesthetic.

“I do among 3 and five procedures a week, and it only requires 30 to 45 minutes. Because it is your personal plasma we are injecting, the risk of infection or allergic reaction is extremely reduced. It is a needle treatment, so there could be a little bruising or soreness.”

The recommended dosage is three sessions, four weeks apart, and then after a 12 months for servicing. At £600 a session, this will set you back £2,000. But not every person is convinced. Miles Berry, a consultant plastic surgeon at Cosmetic Surgery Partners, London, says: “The method has a temporary impact through swelling, but there is as however no scientific proof of any prolonged-term improvements to the skin.”

Gimmick or godsend? You make a decision – but hold that clove of garlic nearby, just in case.

Vampire facials - the cold facts

five Surprising Facts about Hypnosis

Is it magic? Is it all in your head? Or just a bunch of BS?

Despite its recognition close to the planet, hypnosis stays shrouded in mystery. Right here we will shed some light on this extensively misunderstood and fascinating treatment.

one. Hypnosis is a all-natural state you enter all the time

A lot of individuals declare that they are unhypnotizable or that hypnosis just will not function for them. The truth is that every day we are moving in and out of different amounts of trance that are scientifically measurable by way of brain waves. Anytime you zone out at operate, grow to be deeply engrossed in a excellent guide, or shed track of the place you are driving and then magically arrive at your destination, you are getting into trance.

The work of a hypnotist is to support you entry profound states of trance in which your subconscious, or unconscious thoughts is much more open to obtaining constructive suggestions. The cause this approach can be so effective is because your subconscious mind dictates around 95% of all your beliefs and behaviors. When you tap into that 95%, very important and empowering changes can happen.

2. Hypnosis is a state of heightened awareness

Several men and women equate hypnosis with a reduction of management or consciousness. The word hypnosis even has its roots in the Greek word for rest. Nonetheless, hypnotherapy really involves getting into a state of wonderful emphasis and heightened awareness. While in trance, you are aware and in manage the complete time and the hypnotherapist cannot make you do anything you aren’t cozy carrying out.

three. Hypnotherapy is old-really previous

A lot more than four,000 many years ago, ancient Egyptians have been training a type of hypnosis in what are recognized as rest temples. These were places in which ceremonial chanting and other tactics have been employed to induce a state of trance and support individuals overcome various ailments. Rituals involving hypnotic inductions have been also carried out in other ancient cultures such as China, Greece and India.

four. Hypnosis has several scientifically established rewards

Quite a few scientific scientific studies have confirmed hypnotherapy as a safe and effective instrument for a broad assortment of circumstances. Studies reflect the power of hypnosis to reduce and manage discomfort as properly as alleviate depression, anxiety and nervousness. Research also has proven the energy of hypnosis to support men and women overcome addictions, drop weight, shed poor routines, enhance self-esteem, memorize factors a lot more very easily, enhance athletic performance and considerably more.

5. Hypnosis has been widely used by celebrities, professional athletes and other notable folks

Ellen Degeneres, Ben Affleck and Matt Damon efficiently quit smoking via hypnosis. In the course of their latest pregnancies, the two Kim Kardashian and Kate Middleton utilized hypnosis to prepare for childbirth. Phil Jackson, the winningest coach in NBA historical past, used hypnosis with superstar gamers such as Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant to support energy his teams to victory. Even Albert Einstein was identified to self-hypnotize every day.

For more info on how hypnosis can change your life click right here

five Surprising Facts about Hypnosis

Female genital mutilation: facts you need to have to know about the practice

Link to video: End female genital mutilation: join the Guardian’s campaign

• The initial acknowledged record of female genital mutilation dates from the time of the pharaohs. The mummified body of a princess was discovered to have been genitally mutilated.

• Even though the practice is primarily found in some Muslim societies, who feel, wrongly, that it is a religious requirement, it is also carried out by non-Muslim groups such a Coptic Christians in Egypt, and numerous Christian groups in Kenya. It is utilized to handle women’s sexuality and fertility by mutilating their intercourse organs to make sex too agonizing.

• Over 130 million women living in the planet today have been mutilated.

• 6,000 women are mutilated everyday in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and in diaspora communities.

• The practice is normally carried out by a “cutter” midwife in villages utilizing a razor blade, but in some nations this kind of as Egypt and Indonesia it is carried out in clinics and hospitals.

• Up to 24,000 girls are at threat of cutting in the United kingdom, in accordance to one estimate.

• The practice has been outlawed in the United kingdom because 1985 but in 28 years no 1 has been prosecuted.

• Throughout the very same time period In France, one hundred folks have gone on trial for female genital mutilation and there have been 29 convictions.

Female genital mutilation: facts you need to have to know about the practice

The Not So Sweet Facts About Sugar

A new study offers a broad overview of the use of sugar in the US diet and its consequent health implications. The good news is that the growth in sugar intake appears to have stopped and may even have slightly declined. The bad news is that people still consume way too much sugar and that that sugar is killing them.

In a paper published in JAMA Internal Medicine, Quanhe Yang, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and colleagues analyze data about sugar use and its health effects from the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) studies. They report that the percentage of daily calories from added sugar grew from 15.7% in 1988-1994 to 16.8 percent in 1999 to 2004 but then fell back to 14.9 percent in 2005-2010.

But more than 7 out of 10 adults in the US (71.4%) get more than 10% of their calories from added sugar, while 1 out of 10 get a full 25% of their calories from added sugar. (The Institute of Medicine recommends that added sugar compose less than 25% of total calories; the World Health Organization recommends a much lower 10%. The American Heart Association doesn’t recommend a specific percentage but their recommendations translate into even lower percentages of added sugar.)

The authors found a strong association between the amount of added sugar in the diet and cardiovascular mortality. The association persisted even after adjusting for other known risk factors. The authors estimated that people who consumed between 10% and 25% of their calories from added sugar had a 30% increase in cardiovascular mortality. For people who consumed more than 25% of their calories from added sugar the risk nearly tripled (adjusted HR 2.75).

In an invited commentary, Laura Schmidt writes that sugar used to be viewed benignly as a vehicle for empty calories. Its associated ill effects were because the sugar was “a marker for unhealthy diet or obesity.” But now a “new paradigm” has emerged in which sugar is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and other diseases:

The new paradigm hypothesizes that sugar has adverse health effects above any purported role as “empty calories” promoting obesity. Too much sugar does not just make us fat; it can also make us sick.

English: Macro photograph of a pile of sugar (saccharose) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Not So Sweet Facts About Sugar