by Dennis Richardson | Apr 13, 2022
With Spring Break upon us and Summer not far behind, there’s one thing that many people of all ages have searched high and low for: the hangover cure. From old wives tales and urban myths, people have gone to incredible lengths to prevent alcohol’s worst side effects, and now a fix is here in official capacity.
Sober Rush, a gaming-changing new remedy from Fulgent Life, a Southern California biotech company, was developed at the UCLA Cancer Center and is different from any other remedy. While it is widely believed that dehydration is the primary cause of hangovers and that hydrating is the key to alleviating one’s symptoms, the true cause of discomfort is the build-up of a toxic byproduct of alcohol called acetaldehyde (AH-SEE-DAL-DEE-HIDE). Sober Rush is taken before your first drink and again optionally (if your consumption has been heavy) after your last one. It uses a coenzyme called NADH that is naturally present in the body to activate the break-down of acetaldehyde.
Available in supplement form, here’s how the scientists break it down:
· When you consume alcohol, your liver uses an enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase to break the ethanol down to acetaldehyde – a chemical that is up to 30x more toxic to the body than ethanol itself.
· Acetaldehyde is what causes most hangovers. Our research has shown that this chemical is potentially carcinogenic, which is even more reason to try to help your body eliminate it quickly.
· Another enzyme produced by the liver is acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. This enzyme takes the toxic acetaldehyde and turns it into harmless carbon dioxide and water.
· Sober Rush helps speed up the metabolization of acetaldehyde in the liver, by up to three times so that after only four hours, the toxic acetaldehyde will have undergone most of its conversion into non-toxic acetic acid.
“By preventing most of the negative effects from alcohol from ever occurring, Sober Rush allows people to experience and enjoy alcohol more positively,” says Dr. Yong Wu who published a paper in The Journal of Functional Foods about his research. Dr. Wu is an Associate Professor at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA Johnson Comprehensive Cancer Center; and the Core Director for the Drug Discovery Program. “NADH is the first discovery in the world that can be applied to unravel alcohol-induced liver damage,” said Dr. Wu.
Sober Rush is 2x faster at metabolizing alcohol than your body can on its own, and indicators of liver damage showed no significant changes when alcohol was consumed with Sober Rush.
Following years of research at the UCLA Cancer Research Center, Fulgent Life has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from those who have tried Sober Rush and confirmed its miraculous abilities.
Sober Rush is available on Amazon, Yamibuy.com and in several liquor stores, smoke stores and supermarkets in California, Seattle, Hawaii and New York. You can learn more by visiting the Sober Rush website, here.
by Anthony Stafford | Mar 2, 2022
March begins National Nutrition Month, and what better way to kick things off, than with Kori Krill Oil and helpful information from Nutritionist Rania Batayneh, MPH? For many who began 2022 on a health kick, experiences have ranged from effortless to completely off the rails, but Kori Krill Oil can help everyone with the least effort.
Even with the growing trend of diet-conscious people today, nutrition deficiencies are still rampant in the United States, with a whopping 70% of the U.S. population deficient in omega-3’s — a key nutrient for heart health.
With just one serving of superior Omega-3 supplement Kori Krill Oil ($19.99), 250 grams of EPA and DHA Omega-3 fatty acids are provided to your body – the equivalent of the same amount of Omega-3s that you’d get from eating 2 servings of fish per week (recommended by U.S. dietary guidelines). As Kori Krill Oil provides Omega-3 in its most natural phospholipid form, distribution is superior and converts directly into cells and organs.
Read on for key pointers in our Q&A with Nutritionist Rania Batayneh, MPH, and no matter where you are in your health journey, get started making sure you’re not deficient in Omega-3’s!
Q&A With Nutritionist Rania Batayneh:
Q: Can you please share some info with our readers about your background as a nutritionist and how you got started?
In 2001, I obtained my master’s degree in nutrition from the University of Michigan School of Public Health. I started my career in San Francisco in 2001 with a focus on developing strategies to help my clients optimize their health and wellness, which results in long term weight loss. My first book, The One One One Diet is a #1 Amazon bestseller and has changed the lives of so many men and women.
Q: During this time with health and wellness interest booming, what is one of the biggest nutritional myths or misconceptions?
I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that only older generations should be worried about how nutrition can play a huge role in overall health. For example, the CDC recommends that the younger generations should also stay vigilant with their heart health too. In fact, heart disease affects 1 in 10 Americans between 20 to 39 years old. Diet and nutrition play a critical role in improving heart health, and omegas are a superfood that can not be overlooked.
Q: Can you tell us what in its formula makes Kori Krill Oil so special, and why it stands out from other comparable alternatives, like cod liver oil and salmon oil supplements?
Krill Oil, specifically Kori, the superior Omega-3 supplement really stands out compared to other fish oils on the market. Kori truly is an Omega-3 Superfood. Antioxidant powered for 6+ benefits including heart, brain, joint, eye, skin and immune health with superior absorption versus fish oils.
Kori Krill Oil Omega-3s are in phospholipid form, which supports Omega-3 distribution throughout the body and delivery to the body’s cells. Since krill oil Omega-3s are in a phospholipid form (their most natural form) that blends easily in our stomachs, you do not get that fishy aftertaste or fishy burps.
Q: Just from a nutritional standpoint, what are some of the highlights that Kori offers, and how do they help the body?
Like fish oil, krill oil contains DHA and EPA. However, krill oil contains the essential nutrient choline which supports brain and nervous system health, and the antioxidant astaxanthin. Fish oil doesn’t have these.
Not all Omega-3 supplements are the same and there are many important differences between krill oil and other Omega-3 supplements, like fish oil that make Krill Oil the superior Omega-3 superfood source. Some key differences include:
Kori Krill Oil naturally has more nutrients and comes in their most natural form for even more health benefits vs. traditional omega-3 sources.
Kori Krill Oil is the most natural Omega-3 form whose antioxidant power supports heart, brain, joint, eye, skin and immune health with superior absorption versus fish oils.
Superfoods are not only packed with nutrients, but they are clean by nature. Kori Krill Oil is naturally non-gmo, which means no artificial flavors, colors & preservatives are needed.
Q: 70% of the U.S. population is deficient in Omega-3’s. What are some health issues that can arise over time due to a lack of sufficient Omega-3’s?
Omegas are always top of mind (literally and figuratively!). Consumers are embracing Omega-3s as they are critical for our brain, eye, skin, heart, join, and immune health. Salmon (or a healthy fish diet) is one of the most recognized superfoods out there, because its Omega-3 EPA & DHA nutrients are essential fatty acids our bodies need. The American Heart Association recommends that you consume 2 servings of fish/week. But >70% of Americans aren’t eating enough of a healthy fish diet, resulting in too low Omega-3 levels.
A more “superficial” example is one of which impacts your skin. The term “Inflammaging” is a meld of the words “inflammation” and “aging,” and lends itself to the concept that inflammation leads to quick aging of the skin. If you are not eating 2 servings of fatty fish each week, it is quite likely that you are deficient in omega-3s which are essential fatty acids. While we can’t take a look inside our bodies, what we see can be a reflection of a deficiency. When our diets are deficient in fatty acids, you may start to experience dry skin. Reason being: Omega-3 fatty acids are important in keeping our skin hydrated and strong. Supplementing with a product that in its natural form — like Kori Krill Oil — can make an impact on your skin.
Are there any final points you’d like to stress about the importance of implementing Kori Krill Oil and Omega-3’s into regular daily intake?
If your diet is lacking in omegas, my recommendation for an added source of Omega-3s is Kori Krill Oil which offers Omega-3s in its most natural form, closest to eating a healthy fish diet. Think of it this way, a supplement should supplement your diet. Sounds simple, right? When you look at your diet (meaning what you eat, not what you shouldn’t eat!) are you getting the essentials? One of which are your Omega 3 fatty acids. To find out, ask yourself this question, “Am I eating 2 servings of fish each week?” If the answer is no, then a supplement is a good idea. Not only do Omega-3s help with our brain health, they are also powerful antioxidants which help support our eye, skin, heart, joint, and immune health.
Some supplements target only one part of your health-your hair, your eyes, your skin, but what if there was one that helped with all of them. KORI is the one supplement your entire body can benefit from-head to toe. What’s more, research suggests that omega-3s from krill oil are superior to fish oil in raising Omega-3 levels in the body.
by Dennis Richardson | Nov 17, 2021
For many, Fall and Winter mean it’s the season to get fit. Whether you resort to apps, gym programs, personal trainers, or just some good old self-discipline, there’s a company out there that wants to help you achieve whatever your fitness goals may be. Meet SAGA Fitness, and their new, innovative BFR Cuffs.
Confused? Here’s an explanation: BFR stands for Blood Flow Restriction, and it promotes getting more done with less while you’re working out. Once a niche method used by individuals looking to get back into their training routines after injuries, BFR is now being embraced by celebrities, professional athletes and people who are working out from home more efficiently.
Trusted by performance specialists, elite athletes and professional thrill-seekers, SAGA’s BFR Cuffs are an official partner of the UFC Performance Institute, and also the world’s first wireless, automated training cuffs that can easily be added to any workout. What can SAGA’s BFR Cuffs do for you? Here’s a brief list of highlights:
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Completely Wireless: SAGA’s BFR Cuffs are the first of its kind as they are completely wireless and controlled via your mobile device using 4.0 Bluetooth.
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Personalized Calibration: These BFR Cuffs calibrate your body’s unique limb occlusion pressure, providing you with optimal pressure zones that will help you to amplify your workout.
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Automatic Inflation: The intelligent tools will inflate to your optimum pressure with one touch, no need for a tedious manual pump!
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Mobile App: Paired with an easy to use mobile app, you can easily control your devices and access information on BFR including training tips and video demonstrations for different fitness goals.
If it’s for you, or even for a loved one for the holidays, SAGA Fitness’ BFR Cuffs might be a perfect fit to knockout those health and fitness goals. Learn more at their website, here.
About SAGA Fitness
SAGA was founded in December 2020 by VALD.
VALD is a global leader in human measurement technologies that provide powerful and objective data to elite sports teams, defence departments, and allied health organisations.
As more technologies continue to proliferate the market and people’s demand for data increases, VALD saw an emerging opportunity for scientifically engineered technologies, that were tested and proven to improve human performance. As such VALD took a decisive step and created SAGA, disrupting the smart technology movement and making world-class tools accessible for all, not just elite athletes.
by Dennis Richardson | Oct 27, 2021
In the post-pandemic age, we have seen the telemedicine industry really take off, and that’s with thanks to brands like TytoCare.
TytoCare, the at-home, hand-held digital exam kit, is a hybrid approach to telemedicine, featuring a palm-sized, hand-held exam camera and attachments (like a stethoscope or tongue compressor) to stream a patient’s real-time symptoms, to the clinician on the other side of the screen. Meant for guided use by a board-certified clinician, during a 1:1 virtual appointment, the TytoCare system gives patients the tools to help remote medical professionals see symptoms, as if it were IRL (in real life).
In addition, TytoCare is offering $100 off on BestBuy (no code needed), and on the TytoCare website all through November with code CYBER100 and all through December with code HOLIDAY100. In a world currently led by advanced technology, don’t miss the opportunity to bring your healthcare into the future.
by Niki Smart | Aug 31, 2021
I‘m sure we can all agree that 2020 & 2021 have been difficult. What made it a little easier for me was stumbling upon Ana Lilia’s online breathwork class. During lockdown, Ana’s Saturday morning class became the highlight of my week. Sometimes, Ana starts her class 10 minutes early, with an uplifting, freestyle dance session, and the moment I see her lovely, smiling face appear on my screen, I feel better. And the music! Ana’s thoughtful playlist is somehow always spot on. In fact, I get so much out of her class, that I asked if I could interview her for SoCal Magazine so that our readers can benefit from Ana‘s healing, too. Here is Ana Lilia‘s insight into breathwork and I highly recommend you give her class a try—you won’t regret it.
1. Why did you start doing breathwork and how long have you been doing it?
I came across a breathwork class 6 years ago during a time in my life where I was depressed, my anxiety was at an all time high and I was feeling lost. I attended a breathwork class, not knowing what it was. During the class, we focused on active breathing for 30 minutes. My body responded in ways I didn’t expect. Not only did my hands cramp up — I started crying. It was so strange to me because I’d never had that kind of reaction before. But it was just the kind of release that I needed. In what felt like an instant of clarity, everything looked and felt different to me. The world felt brighter and lighter. I felt more alive than I’d felt in a long time. Most importantly, I was filled with a sense of empowerment that hasn’t left me since. From that moment on, I knew that breathwork was going to save my life. Shortly after, I decided that I wanted to learn how to facilitate a breathwork session and introduce it to as many people as possible who live with anxiety and depression. I want the world to know about how powerful, transformative and healing breathwork is.
2. What is breathwork?
Breathwork is an active form of meditation where you manipulate your breath to change the way you feel. There are many different types of breathing techniques. And yes, our body knows how to breathe naturally, but a lot of times we aren’t breathing properly. This can create an imbalance in the oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange. That imbalance can contribute to anxiety, panic attacks, and fatigue. Have you noticed that when you’re anxious, you tend to take shallow, rapid breaths from your chest, and you may even start to hyperventilate? This increases your heart rate and creates muscle tension. Your sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, and there is a surge of adrenaline and cortisol alerting your body that it needs to protect itself.
The breathing technique I use is a two stage pranayama breathing pattern. You take a first inhale from your diaphragm, a second from your chest and then you exhale. It’s a circular breathing technique, where as soon as you exhale, you inhale right away. This breathing practice can help you release tension from your body, clear your mind, and you can also have a deep healing session. Breathwork helps you feel more in control of your emotions and grounded as we navigate these stressful times.
One of my specialities is working with people who suffer from anxiety. Many of my clients would share with me that they have panic attacks often or they have been suffering from anxiety for a long time. I created a program with guided breathing meditations to help them manage their anxiety. The biggest thing I help them with is getting to the core of why they are stressed out. This awareness gives them the power to respond instead of reactivating whey they are getting triggered. They feel like they are in control of their life again. And have practical tools they can use when they are feeling stressed out.
3. Can anyone join your breathwork classes?
Yes! Everyone is welcomed in my breathwork classes. I created
Community Gathering right at the start of the pandemic as a way to support my community through the fear and anxiety we were all experiencing due to Covid-19. The isolation was very triggering to many people, and having a safe place where we could meet virtually became something they could look forward to and be reminded that they are not alone in how they feel. Several people have told me that Community Gathering literally saved their life during the pandemic. It’s a diverse community where people from all over the world join to breathe. We have teenagers who breathe with their parents, our oldest community member is in her 90s and we have everything else in between.
4. How much is it?
As a way to make it accessible to most people, Community Gathering is a sliding scale ticket starting at $10 – $35.
5. How does music play into your class?
Music is a HUGE part of my breathwork classes. My playlists are intended to take my clients on a journey. Every song that I pick tells a story with the lyrics that will resonate with my clients. The song may have them remember an experience or it might encourage an emotion to express more easily. I let my intuition create the playlist. I tap into the energy of my client or the group, and know instinctively if the song is right or wrong for the group or the person. And sometimes, we move so much energy before we go into the active breathing that I’m playing DJ on the spot to better support them while they are breathing. You can find hundreds of my breathwork playlists on my Spotify and Apple Music profiles.
6. What experiences have your clients shared with you that touched you the most?
My clients have had deep transformational healings. After a short amount of time working with me they unpack trauma, disappointments, anxiety and other stressors. They are left feeling refreshed, renewed and empowered. And by doing this deep healing work, it also helps them manifest and get aligned with their goals. My clients have manifested their dream homes, new jobs, launched business, attracted a partner…and this is because they are more confident, they know their worth and are open to receive.
7. What is the most common reaction people have when doing your class?
They can’t believe how different they feel after breathing. The tension their body was holding onto is gone. They gain clarity on why they were stressed. It helps them gain awareness about their thoughts and how it affects their anxiety and overwhelm. That awareness helps them feel back in control. and they know they can change the way they feel by connecting with their breath.
8. What do you have coming up next?
I’m hosting a Fall Retreat the first weekend of November in Los Angeles. I also started hosting monthly in-person events at the beach. To learn more about my offerings you can visit my website www.analilia.net. If you are interested in meditations to help you manage anxiety you can find my 7-day program at www.feelcalmtoday.com And I’m also on Instagram @_ana_lilia
by Mia Barnes | Jul 30, 2021
6 Expert Ways to Protect Your Skin From Scarring, Injury and Blemishes
With the warm season here, you bare more skin. However, you want to keep your appearance glowing and blemish-free any time of year.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and many things can damage it. Here are six expert ways to protect your skin from scarring, injury and blemishes.
1. Leave New Pimples Alone
While sitting in your 8 a.m. chemistry class, you notice a bump on your chin that feels like a fresh blackhead. Your tendencies might scream, “pick at me!” Please try not to yield to the temptation. Picking at your skin can introduce new dirt and germs into pores, making existing acne worse. Trying to pop a newly erupted pimple can push bacteria and oil deeper into the infected pore, increasing swelling, pressure and redness. Icing such spots can reduce swelling and redness until they reach the point where you can perform an extraction.
2. But Treat Injuries Quickly
The old cliché may advise you to never trust a man who has no scars — but the originator of this saying spoke metaphorically. In reality, you want to practice proper wound care to prevent scarring.
If you get a cut or a burn, your first order of business is to thoroughly clean the wound to remove any debris. You also need to cool burns before applying any ointments that might seal heat inside your skin. Once you’ve cleansed and cooled the area, apply a dab of petroleum jelly to the affected area to keep the wound from drying out and forming a scab. You can also use silicone or hydrogel sheets for larger wounds.
Bruises fade in time, but they can distress you if you end up sporting purple and green blotches that contrast with your sleeveless pink bridesmaid’s gown at a summer wedding. Icing your bruise immediately after the bump occurs can help minimize discoloration. Please ensure that you use a fabric bugger between the ice pack and your skin to avoid making matters worse.
3. Use the Right Tool
Take heart, perfect skin seekers. You can still enjoy the gross-yet-satisfying sensation of popping your pimples if you wait until the right time and use the correct instrument.
It’s best if you use self-care techniques after a seasoned professional shows you the ropes. However, let’s keep it real — not everyone has the money for a dermatologist. You can buy comedone extractors such as those recommended by Dr. Pimple Popper and find instructional videos online if you can’t afford a trip.
4. Or Call a Professional
If you have the means, please see a professional for the best advice on protecting your skin from scarring, injuries and blemishes. Please don’t think this advice implies that you can’t learn how to take care of your skin at home.
However, your dermatologist can help you considerably in this endeavor by identifying your skin type and recommending products ideal for your unique DNA. You could potentially save money by not wasting countless pennies here and there trying various products that may work for others, but not you.
5. Wear Sunscreen
If you haven’t started wearing sunscreen each day yet, please get into the habit. Even if you adopt the mindset of, “early humans didn’t wear protection, and they survived” keep in mind that things have changed. Climate change means humans now experience more ground-level UVA radiation than past generations.
If you eschew commercial sunscreens because of the chemicals some brands contain, you can make DIY protection. All you need is some powdered zinc oxide and a carrier base that works well for your skin type. Coconut oil works wonders for dry skin, while argan oil won’t clog acne-prone pores.
6. Nourish Your Skin
Even if you try to be careful, you will eventually suffer life’s bumps and bruises. When you do, your body will heal itself — and recovery will go more quickly if you provide it with the right building blocks for doing so.
If you don’t follow a vegan diet, try to consume more fatty fish for the omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. The omega-3’s reduce redness and inflammation from pimples, while vitamin E protects against damaging free radicals. Plant-based foods such as walnuts, sweet potatoes and red and yellow bell peppers likewise contain various antioxidants that help protect your skin cells from further damage and provide the materials they need to heal.
Protect Your Skin From Scarring, Injuries and Blemishes
Looking your best means taking care of your body’s largest organ. Protect your skin from scarring, injuries and blemishes to give it the best chance at longevity.
by Dennis Richardson | Jul 22, 2021
Whether you’re still working on your summer body, or just maintaining good health, you’d be pleased to know there’s a hot new collaboration in the works!
The post-workout smoothie craving is real, which is why Ritual has teamed up with Barry’s to offer their customers the most balanced plant-based option at their Fuel Bar — the “Ritual Shake” — available at Barry’s nationwide, including the Weho and Hollywood locations. Beating the heat and restoring fuel at once? Sign us up.
Launched June 28, Barry’s Fuel Bar updated their smoothie menu to include their new preferred plant protein partner, Ritual, by featuring the “Ritual Shake” – a blend of Ritual’s Essential Protein, coconut milk, spinach, strawberries, almond butter, and ice.
Protein is an essential macronutrient, giving your body strength before and/or after a workout, which is why Ritual has created a vanilla, plant-based Essential Protein. Their blueprint for a balanced smoothie starts with a calculated amount of Essential Protein paired with the appropriate amount of fiber and healthy fats to feel fulfilled and ready to accomplish what is ahead. The “Ritual Shake” encompasses just that!
by Kara Reynolds | Jul 3, 2021
Most parents know to keep healthy snacks, sunscreen and yard games around during the summer months. However, there are so many other things parents can do to ensure their kids have a safe, healthy summer. While these habits and lifestyle changes may be small, they’ll ultimately change your perspective on wellness and help you discover better ways to keep your kids healthy and happy.
Cultivate healthy habits now by using these smart tips all summer long.
1. Reapply Sunscreen
You already know that sunburns can increase your risk of developing cancer. That fact alone is enough to spray the kids with sunscreen. However, one application likely won’t be enough to protect your family if you’ll be outside for a few hours.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Choose one with an SPF of at least 60 and wear protective clothing if the UV index is extra high. These additional precautions will prevent burns and subsequent skin damage.
2. Manage Portions
You serve all the right food groups so your kids have healthy options at mealtime. But are you paying attention to portion size? Generally, you should choose foods every day from the following :
- Two to three cups of vegetables
- One and a half to two cups of fruit
- Five to eight cups of grains
- Three cups of dairy
- Five to six ounces of protein foods
- Five to seven teaspoons of fats and oils
So, if you’re serving more macaroni and cheese than fruits and vegetables or your little ones are sneaking extra portions of the former, it’s time to focus on improving your plating.
3. Take Care of Your Gut
Good health starts in your stomach, and the same goes for your kids. That’s because your gut is home to millions of bacteria that form a microbiome. This group of microorganisms holds the key to digesting and utilizing food, a process that can affect your entire body.
Therefore, it’s important that you care for your gut by eating fermented foods like Greek yogurt, sauerkraut and pickles. If your kids are picky eaters, try probiotic and prebiotic supplements instead. Regardless of how you go about boosting those good bacteria, you’ll surely experience a plethora of health benefits once you start prioritizing gut health.
4. Stick to a Bedtime
Most parents let their kids stay up late into the night during the summer months. However, children still need eight to 13 hours of sleep each night, depending on their age — and regardless of whether school is in session.
Establish a bedtime for yourself and your kids and try to stick to it by developing a nighttime ritual. Waking up at the same time every morning may help, too. By the time this new schedule becomes routine, everyone will already be experiencing better sleep and happier, healthier outlooks.
5. Don’t Forget to Floss
While you’re at it, make flossing part of your family’s nightly routine. This simple yet oft-forgotten habit is crucial to your dental health and hygiene as it protects against plaque buildup and subsequent tooth decay.
Teach your kids how to floss by modeling the behavior yourself. Younger kids might need extra help as they develop their fine motor skills. However, if you want to boost their independence, try having them use y-shaped floss picks. With a little practice and patience, they’ll soon be flossing their teeth all on their own.
6. Try Mind-Body Exercises
Whether your family works out together or not, it’s important to incorporate mind-body exercises into your lives. These exercises will help you use your thoughts to gain influence over your body’s physical responses. With practice, your whole family may experience better sleep, less stress and a heightened sense of well-being.
Try a few deep breathing exercises or meditate for a few minutes to develop and deepen this mind-body connection. Yoga, tai-chi and other similar traditions can be beneficial as well. Plus, they’re easy for kids to learn and practice. The more often and consistently they participate, the more apt you’ll be to see positive results.
7. Take a Proactive Stance
With more vaccines rolling out every day, now’s the perfect time to schedule your kids’ annual wellness check. This appointment will clue you into any underlying health issues so you can help your children make healthier life choices.
Ask your pediatrician about routine inoculations and whether or not they recommend the COVID-19 vaccine. Remember to schedule any routine appointments afterward to get ahead of the wellness curve and take a more proactive stance on health care.
Lead By Example
The devil’s in the details and, if you want your family to stay healthy and active, you must take the lead. Your kids — and maybe even your spouse — often look to you for direction, so take charge and lead by example. Once they see you prioritizing sunscreen, sleep, gut health and the like, they’ll likely follow suit. With some practice and a little bit of luck, these healthy habits will stick with your little ones well into adulthood.
For more information: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/news/Pages/AAP-Supports-Childhood-Sleep-Guidelines.aspx
by Dennis Richardson | Jun 14, 2021
A long controversial topic, it’s been argued for years now that Millennials are in charge for killing off a number of seemingly trivial practices, like using fabric softener. However, this one seems to be one of the more consequential practices dying off – whether purposefully or not – that could also help resolve mysterious underlying health issues.
In April, Swiffer and the American Lung Association (ALA) – the champions of lung health – joined forces to release the “Dust & Indoor Air Quality Briefing.” This educational resource details the importance of the quality of the air we breathe indoors, with formal recommendations from the ALA on how to easily improve indoor air quality in your home.
New Harris Poll data reveals that nearly 62% of Millennials do not consider dusting a priority – making dusting yet another thing that Millennials have “killed.” With people’s own dead skin cells being a main component of dust, along with dust mite droppings and body fragments, increased time at home during the pandemic meant that people may be inadvertently contributing to dust levels in their homes.
We conducted a Q&A with the American Lung Association’s Volunteer Medical Spokesperson, Dr. Payel Gupta, MD, FCAAI, to find out more about how everyone could benefit from regular dusting, and exactly how it impacts our lives. She provides surprising details below about the types of environments dust mites thrive in, and methods that can help keep dust levels low in your home.
Q&A with Dr. Payel Gupta
Q: Let’s start at the very beginning. Most people just see dust as a nuisance and nothing more. However, when you put a microscope over it, what is dust mostly comprised of?
A: You’re absolutely right. Many people don’t realize that dust is mostly comprised of dead skin cells, dust mite droppings and dust mite body fragments.
Q: Is it believed that by helping people understand exactly what’s in the dust they’re letting accumulate — and how it impacts their health — that they’d be more eager to get rid of it. What are the health effects of living in a dusty home, and spending extended time in one?
A: With dead skin cells being a key component of dust, increased time spent indoors (especially over the past year) may actually contribute to an increase of dust in people’s homes. As dust accumulates, it becomes more visible to the naked eye, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been there the entire time.
When people are allergic to dust mites, they are actually allergic to dust mite droppings. And when exposed to dust mite droppings, we can have symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, itchy watery eyes, rashes, coughing, wheezing and even shortness of breath. Once people are aware of the impact dust can have on their health and indoor air quality, we’re finding that they’re more inclined to pick up a dusting habit in their own homes.
Q: What are some steps that people can take to protect themselves and their families at home, other than just dusting? What products do you recommend for effective cleaning?
A: Aside from dusting regularly, it’s essential that people think beyond traditional cleaning methods like dry brooms or feather dusters. To effectively dust, I suggest using a damp mop, damp cloth or a duster that can trap and lock dust to reduce the amount that is stirred up when cleaning. Locate the areas around your home that accumulate dust frequently, such as baseboards, molding, blinds and shelves, which are key dust hot spots for many!
Q: In a time when cleaning is only becoming more passive, what are your thoughts on air purifiers? Are they effective at helping keep spaces free of dust, or at reduced dust levels?
A: I have had many patients feel that an air purifier has been helpful. However, there is not strong studies or data that states they make a big difference. Though, using an air purifier is not harmful and may help in some cases.
Q: Are some environments more prone to an excess of dust than others? For example, does humidity and heat play a role? How about a home with 5 family members and pets, versus a home with 2 family members and no pets?
A: Dust mites live off of the humidity in the air. So, the more humid an environment is the more dust mites. Keeping humidity levels below 50% is ideal. Also, dust mites feed on dead human skin cells that are found in dust. Because human skin flakes tend to accumulate in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, blankets, clothes, stuffed toys and other fabric-covered items, those are the places dust mites tend to live. So yes, the more people in a home, the more dead human skin cells dust mites have to live off of.
by Niki Smart | May 28, 2021
The statistics for chronic illness worldwide are going through the roof. Degenerative diseases are cropping up in younger and younger people and, at this point, nearly half of all Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease. On top of this, Covid-19 emerged and has us all thinking about our health. Now we all want to know how to boost our immune systems and get healthy. The problem is that the primary degenerative diseases are directly connected to malnutrition and toxins we take in by eating toxic foods, drinking toxic water and breathing toxic air. We released 84,000 synthetic new chemicals into the air in 2020 alone, and we’ve depleted our soil of vital microbes, bacteria and fungi by spraying chemicals and over farming. Okay, so now that we’ve contaminated our earth and our bodies are suffering, are we screwed? Sounds grim, doesn’t it
Well, here’s something you should know—actually everyone needs to know this: chronic disease can be reversed by eating the right food. Plus, your immune system gets a big boost when you eat the right food. Well, what is the right food?
The answers are discussed in the documentary, “Farmacy of Light”— A Quantum Leap in Healing. This film, by Ryan Wirick, is his follow up to the popular documentary “Need to Grow”. Farmacy of Light follows Erik Cutter as he introduces us to his high performance urban farm company, Alergria Farm and teaches us about regenerative soil and how incredibly important that is for not only our health, but for the health of our planet. The optimized soil biology results in superior nutrient dense vegetables, salad greens, fruit, flowers and medicinal herbs.
Erik Cutter, who has over 35 years experience growing food using natural, nutrient-dense techniques and is a leading pioneer in developing the use of hybrid food production technologies says it perfectly:
“We have to stop fighting nature and start working with her…and learn her.”
Luckily, I’m fortunate enough to know Erik personally, and when he offered to make me dinner, I jumped at the opportunity. Why? Because I know that at Erik’s house everything he serves is pure health. And true to form, Erik had a bowl full of freshly picked, nutritious “amazingness” standing ready when I arrived. The “amazingness” is a salad that includes Romaine lettuce, Fennel, Avocado, Yellow and Orange Calendula, Nasturtium, Lemon and more, all grown at Alergria Farms with regenerated soil and without any chemicals. Erik had also prepared a flower/herb tea blend tea that helps strengthen resilience and protects you from colds, flus and viruses. The freshly harvested ingredients include: Ginger and Turmeric root, ground black pepper, Indian blanket, Yellow and Orange Calendula, Yellow Cosmos, Nasturtium, Oregano, Parsley, Celery, Kale, Red-veined Sorrel, Garlic, Lemon and Lime—basically, an Elixir of Health.
Erik and the team from “Farmacy of Light” are committed to getting the word out that healthy soil equates to healthy plants, and healthy plants equates to healthy humans. Add to this that Climate change is upon us, so developing new urban food production systems to grow profitable urban farms using drought resistant farming techniques is imperative.
Another well respected, forward thinker featured in the Farmacy of Light is Dr. Zach Bush. “Plants are the delivery system for the sunshine,” says Dr. Zach Bush. “It is like eating light. We need the sun. Eating healthy plants is like eating sunlight.”
Indeed, while having my amazing salad at Erik’s home, I felt as if I was eating light and good health. My body was getting all the nutrients and minerals it needed to heal. Don‘t you want that, too?
You can visit Alegria Farm in Irvine at the Great Park, or sign up for a class, or boost your energy and improve your health by eating the cleanest, just-picked greens and vegetables from Alegría Fresh. If you’re not near Irvine, California, then make sure you watch “Farmacy of Light” when it is released in August 2021.
Instagram: @alegriafarms. @theneedtogrow
by Dennis Richardson | Apr 9, 2021
2020 was a lot on our brains. Life can also be a lot on our brains. How do we cope with all of the trauma, anxiety, and baggage so that we’re not weighed down? A few options may have come to mind, but it’s unlikely that you’ve ever thought about anything like this!
Introducing Field Trip Health, the groundbreaking company redefining mental well-being and consciousness through psychedelic-enhanced psychotherapy, recently opened its doors to Los Angelenos. We’re excited to share the news of Field Trip Health’s Los Angeles clinic opening, and highlight the revolutionary work FTH is doing to revolutionize mental health treatments using psychedelic-enhanced psycho-therapy.
Super exciting for frequent travelers — Field Trip Health now has Clinics opened in Toronto, New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and Houston, so far, with a clinic coming to Amsterdam soon! At the FTH clinics, legally administered psychedelic-enhanced therapy, mindfulness, and self-care are blended with a series of sessions with trained psychotherapists. Field Trip Health takes a step-by-step, medically-supervised, integrated approach using ketamine-enhanced psychotherapy to help people heal from tough-to-beat mental conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Field Trip’s forward-thinking and progressive therapy methods are revolutionizing the health-care industry as we know it, with the continuing embrace of psychedelics leading to a mental health revolution.
And, while you may imagine a clinic to be sterile, the clinic space is intentionally designed to promote the healing journey — clean, quiet, and alive with light + plant life, reimagined to replicate a nature-inspired oasis of peace.
A Q&A With founder Ronan Levy
Ronan Levy at Mastermind Talks 2014 in Toronto, Ontario. ©2014 Mark Adams www.MarkAdamsPhoto.com
Q: There’s therapy, and then there’s psychedelic-enhanced psychotherapy. How did you discover all that this alternative approach to mental health had to offer?
RDL: My journey to psychedelic enhanced therapies started about 15 years ago when I started work with meditation and metaphysics as part of my personal growth journey. (I was in the process of a breakup so sought support to help through that process.) But my interest in psychedelics was really piqued when I read Tibetan Peach Pie by Tom Robbins, in which he described his first psychedelic experience in the 1960s in a psychologist’s office. This opened my mind to the expansive potential of psychedelics. Fast forward a few years and my work within medical cannabis showed me just how therapeutic plant medicines can be. The combination led to the birth of Field Trip.
Q: Drugs typically make people feel good, right? What was the mindset you had when you decided that psychedelics were the way to go in helping treat mental health issues? Did you think it would be taken seriously from the start?
RDL: Drugs, when used therapeutically, can act as a filter that helps people tap into different levels of awareness. This is true about certain pharmaceuticals as well as plant-based medicines. I remember the moment when we decided to lean into psychedelics. It was electric. Everything in me knew that it was not only an incredible entrepreneurial opportunity, but also an incredible opportunity to create global scale impact. I had no concerns about being taken seriously — the objective data and evidence speaks for itself.
Q: Could you describe one of your favorite success stories?
RDL: I can’t speak to individual experiences out of respect for privacy, but we’ve seen incredible results both objectively and subjectively. Objectively, people’s depression and anxiety scores drop markedly and for an extended period after a journey with Field Trip. Subjectively, we’ve had survivors of sexual trauma report being able to see themselves as beautiful for the first time that they could remember, military veterans saying they’ve felt empathy for the first time in years. Powerful, beautiful stories of just how transformative these experiences can be.
Q: Based on the photos, it’s clear that FTH wants visitors to feel comforted from the moment they first step foot inside. What can visitors expect the process to be like upon their first visit?
RDL: Yes, we’ve designed all of our Field Trip Health locations to be bright, warm and inviting. The evidence indicates that set and setting (the preparation as well as the physical location) play an important role in the therapeutic outcomes so we’ve leaned into that very thoughtfully in the design of our locations. Similarly, we want people to feel safe, comfortable and supported every step along the way, from the initial assessments (to make sure psychedelic assisted therapy is appropriate for you), to meeting your therapeutic team, to all the information and tools you are provided with throughout the journey.
Q: Can you share a bit about why you chose LA as a location for one of your clinics and the main reasons that LA patients have for undergoing treatment?
RDL: As persuasive as the data is around psychedelic assisted therapies, we knew that it’s going to take time to challenge old stigmas and ideas around psychedelics. So we focussed on opening our first locations in cosmopolitan centers such as Toronto, New York and LA that have greater influence on social and cultural trends. Also, these cities are generally known for their progressiveness so we anticipated a more receptive audience. In LA, we are seeing people for a wide range of reasons but primarily it’s people dealing with the anxieties of a fast-paced life, as well as depression.
Q: What were some of the challenges you faced while creating FTH, and how did you overcome them?
RDL: Truthfully, as far as startups goes, launching Field Trip has gone as elegantly as we could imagine. For those who have been touched by psychedelics, there is a palpable desire to see legal access to these therapies and we’ve been able to tune into that momentum.
Q: What do you say to a doubtful reader struggling with mental health conditions to convince them why they should pay FTH a visit?
RDL: Don’t ignore your doubts! All emotions are valid and real and should be considered. But also don’t ignore information and evidence. Seek to be fully informed and I think you’ll find that the reasons that support exploring psychedelic therapies outweigh the risks and reservations. But ultimately the decision is yours to make and we’ll be supportive of you whatever path you choose.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
RDL: For anyone looking to get an understanding of psychedelics or what the process of psychedelic integration looks like, download our app, Trip, from iTunes or Google Play, or find it here www.tripapp.co. You can also learn more about Field Trip Health on our podcast: Field Tripping with Ronan Levy.
Website: https://www.fieldtriphealth.com
Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/fieldtriphealth/?hl=en
by Kara Reynolds | Mar 26, 2021
Amidst nutrition facts, ingredient lists and dietary claims on food packages, the term organic might seem like just one more thing to decipher at the grocery store. Are those organic eggs and carrots really worth the extra few bucks?
Well, from a physical health standpoint, eating organics won’t make a noticeable difference in your physique. Unfortunately, the media tends to focus on this point, alone, causing many people to overlook organics. Yet, organically grown food can make a big difference in your mental health and overall sense of wellbeing.
What Is Organic Food?
Organic food includes plants and animals that were produced without harmful pesticides, fertilizers, GMOs, antibiotics or hormones. Instead, farmers rely on biological fertilizers and eco-friendly pest management practices to produce a healthy crop and fertile soil year after year. They also use environmentally friendly production practices like water management, no-till farming and habitat maintenance. In doing so, organic farmers enhance the ecosystem and promote biodiversity.
To gain organic certification, a farmer submits an organic system plan to an accredited certifier and undergoes an inspection each year. Farmers must also meet animal health welfare standards, keep a detailed record of all products and abide by all rules that the National Organic Program has put in place to maintain their certification.
Pesticides and Mental Health
Nearly 47% of U.S. adults will battle a mental illness at some point in their lives, and 18% of the population suffers from anxiety each year. In many cases, lifestyle changes, major events and even chemical imbalances in the brain can cause anxiety. However, what you put in your body can also increase your risk of developing this debilitating disorder.
Many conventional farmers use fertilizers and organic insecticide pesticides like organophosphates to protect their crops. Despite some differences, all organophosphates inhibit acetylcholinesterase. This enzyme is responsible for clearing chemicals that transmit signals between brain cells and other parts of the body. If this acetylcholinesterase doesn’t do its job, the pesticide can disrupt the central nervous system.
Over the past few decades, researchers have discovered a link between organophosphates and neuropsychiatric disorders. Some of the most striking evidence comes from instances of short-term, high-level exposure in agricultural workers, veterans of the Gulf War and civilians in the Sarin gas attack on a Tokyo subway. Each of these groups of people have shown high incidences of depression, anxiety, and related neurological impairments.
Now, many scientists surmise that long-term, low-level exposure to this compound can play a role in disorders like anxiety and depression as well. Therefore, eating foods free of these toxic compounds can minimize your risk of developing these mental illnesses.
Which Organics Are Best?
Because organic foods are free of anxiety-inducing pesticides, fertilizers, and insecticides, they can potentially help with anxiety. However, if you don’t want to commit to a fully organic diet, buy foods that will give you the best bang for your buck.
The following foods are especially beneficial for those looking to ease anxiety and live a happy, healthy life.
Brazil Nuts
Brazil nuts are high in selenium, which can reduce inflammation, a common symptom of anxiety. They also contain other antioxidants like vitamin E that can effectively treat anxiety and potentially prevent depression in some people. Consume three to four brazil nuts or no more than 400 micrograms of selenium per day to get 100% of your daily intake.
Eggs
Researchers have begun to link vitamin D deficiency to mood disorders like anxiety and depression. Luckily, you can boost your intake of this essential vitamin by consuming more eggs. Eggs also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that creates serotonin. This chemical neurotransmitter helps regulate mood and can even relieve anxiety.
Dark Chocolate
Although it’s unclear how dark chocolate reduces stress but, experts have found that cocoa can improve mood. Like eggs, chocolate contains high levels of tryptophans. Plus, dark chocolate contains magnesium, an essential nutrient that may reduce symptoms of depression. Aim for 70% or more cocoa when choosing a dark chocolate to reap the most benefits — and minimize sugar intake.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea also works to reduce inflammation and relax the body. It’s also similar to chocolate in that it contains flavonoids, which can reduce anxiety symptoms. The herbal remedy contains antioxidants as well, which help to prevent cell damage and treat mental illnesses like anxiety.
Yogurt
Fermented foods like Greek yogurt can benefit natural gut bacteria and reduce chronic inflammation, a condition that may be partly responsible for anxiety, stress and depression. Look for organic brands that contain living bacteria to really give your brain a boost.
Managing Anxiety Holistically
Of course, eating whole, organic foods can do wonders for your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. However, the best way to treat anxiety is with a holistic approach. Treat the whole body to sunshine, fresh air, movement, and meditation. Practice mindfulness, start a gratitude journal, or try traditional Chinese medicine. When paired with a healthy, organic diet, natural remedies can help ease your mind and minimize symptoms of anxiety.
