Category Archives: Diet And Food

Since the 1980s, there has been a steady rise in the number of consumers following a vegetarian, vegan or flexitarian diet, often due to regard for animal welfare. More recently, concerns about the environmental impact of a traditional protein-based diet have spurred even more interest in alternative protein sources.

Methane, which is largely emitted from livestock and manure,has contributed to nearly a third of global warmingsince the onset of the industrial revolution and has been shown to be 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period.

At COP26 last year, the US and European Union launched the Global Methane Pledgeto reduce methane emissions by at least 30% in 2030 compared to 2020 levels. Consequently, the development of more alternative proteins to reduce a reliance on animal proteins is a key factor in driving down methane emissions.

Additionally, as the worlds population continues to grow with estimates that we will reach 9.7 billion by 2050 issues of food security and the availability of nutritional products are set to increase. There is an urgent need to source and scale up the processing of alternative proteins from sustainable sources, to complement traditional meat production.

The use of alternative proteins presents an opportunity to add value to the wider food production market, not only in their function of providing much-needed macronutrients to consumer diets, but also in their versatility as a core ingredient.

For example, barley protein can be used in a variety of products from plant-based milks and smoothies to veggie burgers, bread, pasta and more. However, to produce an alternative protein that carries a high nutritional value and provides a commercially viable yield, producers need to consider several aspects in respect of overall functionality. The ability of the protein to act as a beneficial additive ingredient must be combined with binding and cooking properties, the ability to be stored and to withstand variances in temperature as well as the ability to achieve specific taste and aroma profiles.

Potential for degradation and microbial contamination must be examined as proteins can create gels, waxes and other organic materials that must be removed for the functional properties to be preserved. It is imperative that processing includes high quality purification measures to mitigate these risks.

As an example, technology that is used in milk production can also be used in clarifying alternative proteins. In this respect, ceramic multi-channel membranes with an asymmetric structure are ideal for filtering out organic material while withstanding high processing temperatures. For manufacturers, the membranes ability to work at high volume without absorbing biological material ensures efficiency and equipment durability.

As we continue to see more alternative protein products take their place on the shelf next to traditional animal-protein food, there will be an increased need for commercial-scale manufacturing facilities. Recently Pall Corporation and sustainable ingredient company, EverGrain partnered in creating the first commercial-scale facility dedicated to upcycling barley grains into alternative proteins. The production plant transforms barley used in the brewing process into a high-quality, nutritious, and sustainable protein ingredient for use in other food and beverage products.

EverGrain's new facility utilizes the Pall Membralox Microfiltration System, which can also be used for other food and beverage production lines, as well as for other industrial sectors.

Partnerships will play a significant role in creating a sustainable supply of plant protein to fill growing consumer demand. As people look to find alternatives to meat and fish proteins, manufacturers will need to invest in technology that ensures that products will be tasty, of highest quality and nutritionally valuable.

By investing in technology to maintain consistent product quality and process reliability in beverage and food production, manufacturers will also benefit from consumer loyalty, waste minimization and a reduction of operating costs.

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How can we safely meet the growing appetite for alternative proteins? - Food Dive

It tastes like a tomato, smells like a tomato, and even looks (mostly) like a tomato. There's just one catch: It's purple.

The USDA has approved a genetically modified purple tomato, clearing the path for the unique fruit to be sold in American stores next year.

"From a plant pest risk perspective, this plant may be safely grown and used in breeding," the agency said in a September 7 news release.

The video above is ABC7's 24/7 livestream.

The approval moves the purple tomato one step closer to widespread distribution. In addition to its unique color, the purple tomato also has health benefits and a longer shelf life than garden variety red tomatoes, scientists say.

The tomato was developed by a team of scientists, including British biochemist Cathie Martin, who is a professor at the University of East Anglia and a project leader at the John Innes Centre in Norwich, England.

Martin worked on pigment production in flowers for over 20 years, she told CNN. "I wanted to start projects where we could look and see whether there were health benefits for this particular group of pigments," she said.

The pigments that drew Martin's interest are anthocyanins, which give blueberries, blackberries and eggplants their rich blue-purple hues. With funding from a German consortium, she decided to engineer tomatoes that were rich in anthocyanins, hoping to "increase the antioxidant capacity" of the fruits.

By comparing regular tomatoes to the engineered purple tomatoes, she would be able to easily identify whether the anthocyanins were linked to any specific health benefits.

To engineer the purple tomatoes, the scientists used transcription factors from snapdragons to trigger the tomatoes to produce more anthocyanin, creating a vibrant purple color.

Martin and her colleagues published the first results of their research in 2008 in an article in Nature Biotechnology.

The results were "stunning," she said. Cancer-prone mice that ate the purple tomatoes lived around 30% longer than those that ate normal tomatoes, according to the study.

Martin said there are "many explanations" as to why anthocyanin-rich tomatoes may have health benefits. There are "probably multiple mechanisms involved," she said. "It's not like a drug, where there's a single target. It's about them having antioxidant capacity. It also may influence the composition of the microbiome, so it's better able to deal with digestion of other nutrients."

And in 2013, Martin and colleagues released a study that found the purple tomatoes had double the shelf life of their red cousins.

Martin established a spinout company, Norfolk Plant Sciences, to bring the purple tomatoes to market. Nathan Pumplin, the CEO of Norfolk's US-based commercial business, told CNN that the purple tomato "strikes a cord with people in this very basic way."

The distinctive purple color means that "it takes no imagination to see that it's different," Pumplin said. "It really allows people to make a choice."

In the past, forays into genetically modified foods have often focused on engineering crops that are more sustainable to produce, he added. But for consumers, the benefits of eating a genetically modified food are murky.

"It's very abstract, hard to understand," Pumplin said. "But a purple tomato -- you either choose or choose not to consume." The difference between the GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) product and the non-modified tomato are stark -- and the possible health benefits for consumers are also clear.

Pumplin says that consumers are "warming up" to genetically modified foods across the world.

"We look at the problems facing our society as far as sustainability, climate change, health tied to diet and nutrition, and what's clear from the response from our announcement is that it's a really important topic to a lot of people," he said. "I'm encouraged that a lot of people are starting to relook at biotechnology in light of the important challenges."

At the same time, "GMOs are not a silver bullet," he said. "It's one tool in our toolbox as plant scientists, as scientists, agronomists, to improve the food production system."

The next steps for the purple tomato are FDA approval and commercialization, Pumplin said. "We need to breed excellent, delicious purple tomatoes. We need to work with producers to produce them and distribute them."

Norfolk will begin to launch limited test markets in 2023 to identify which consumers are most interested in purple tomatoes.

As for the taste? The purple tomato is indistinguishable from your standard red tomato, Pumplin said.

"It tastes like a great tomato," he said.

(The-CNN-Wire & 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.)

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USDA approves new, genetically modified purple tomato to be sole in American stores next year - WLS-TV

Please look online or get out a good canning instructional book from the library to learn safe canning practices before you start with this amazing food preparation and storage method.

Tis the season for canning and it is important to understand how to can safely. There are several canning methods, and family canning recipes are often handed down multi-generations, but many people dont know about the importance of Ph levels when canning and how dangerous improper canning practices can be. All foods fall somewhere on the Ph scale of alkaline or acidic (or somewhere in between called neutral). The Ph level of the food is what makes it safe or potentially hazardous or even fatal when canned. I had to learn about safe canning methods when I wanted to ensure my turmeric ginger tonics had a stable shelf life. I first had to have them tested for their Ph level to make sure it was in the safe zone (lower than 4.6). Knowing the Ph value of the food you are canning is a very important safety measure.

Even though many people believe eating an alkaline diet is healthier than an acidic diet, this is not the case when it comes to home canned goods. If your canned food is too alkaline (higher Ph than 4.6), botulism could grow in it if the botulism spores are present on the surfaces of fruits and vegetables you are using. The spores themselves are relatively harmless but given the right environment (in a canned product with low acid levels), they can grow into active bacteria and produce neurotoxins. Unfortunately, contaminated food can look, smell, and taste perfectly normal.

According to the CDC and US Food Safety & Inspection Services, food-borne botulism contains a nerve toxin that can cause serious paralytic illness and even death after the ingestion of canned foods where the Clostridium botulinumis present. With better canning practices than 50 years ago, it is relatively rare these days, but botulism can still be fatal. If you suspect that some of your canning may not be safe, place jars in a canning pot on their side, bring to a boil for 5 minutes and discard when cooled without opening them.

To be safe, check the Ph of your food before canning it. Some alkaline veggies include cucumbers, peppers, beans, corn, garlic, onions, asparagus, beets, potatoes, and root vegetables. Alkaline veggies need to be canned in a salt and/or vinegar brine to create a safe environment and prevent botulism spores growing into the deadly toxin. Alkaline fruits like melons, blueberries, pears, peaches, apricots and many others need lemon juice to lower the Ph. Even though lemon juice is acidic, it becomes alkaline in our digestive tract and wont contribute to a build up of acid in our system. Canning low acid foods in a pressure cooker is definitely safer than in a water bath.

Please look online or get out a good canning instructional book from the library to learn safe canning practices before you start with this amazing food preparation and storage method. In a future article I will discuss the health benefits of eating an alkaline diet.

Claire Nielsen is a health coach, author, public speaker and founder of http://www.elixirforlife.ca. The information provided in the above article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional health and medical advice. Please consult a doctor or healthcare provider if you're seeking medical advice, diagnoses and/or treatment.

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What are the risks of home canning fruits and vegetables? - Squamish Chief

Mila Kunis is notoriously private. She doesnt even have her own Instagram account (sigh), but she does occasionally open up about her private life in interviews, including, case in point, her health and wellness routine.

We first heard about it when she transformed her body for her role in the Black Swan in 2010, but there are plenty more tips and tricks weve picked up on since then, and judging by how fit and strong she looks in the trailer for her new film Luckiest Girl Alive, shes reaping the rewards. From the six exercises she swears by to what she eats on a regular day, heres everything she does that you could take on, too.

If youre a loyal WH reader, youll know that consistency is key to seeing results (or just feeling your best, if you dont have a physical/performance-based goal, like lifting a certain weight, in mind), and Mila previously shared with Harpers Bazaar that she trains three times a week. In another interview, she added that this increased to seven days a week, five hours per day, in prep for embodying the Black Swan.

Now, were not suggesting you train anywhere near as often as this (its Milas job to do so), rather that you find a routine that you can feasibly stick to. First think about how often you can realistically fit in a workout per week, then consider how long those workouts should be. FYI, its not necessary to do 60-90 min long sessions. A 20-30 min sesh may well do the trick, depending on your goal(s).

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When it comes to food, Mila likes to make her own meals. I can make anything out of leftovers. I want to be a judge on Top Chef, she told Harpers Bazaar, adding, My glass of wine and I are besties.

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Mila dropped to a weight of just 95 pounds when training for the Black Swan, but she was well aware this wasnt healthy. Speaking to E! News, she explained: I would literally look at myself in the mirror and I was like, Oh my God!

I had no shape, no boobs, no assAll you saw was bone. I was like, This looks gross.

As weve mentioned, its Milas job to lose (or gain) weight to embody certain roles for filming, but for you and us, the emphasis should be less on aesthetics and more on how you feel inside. Start by switching out aesthetic goals for those with a skill focus they come with a much greater sense of accomplishment. Take our word for it.

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Once filming for Black Swan wrapped up, Milas mission was to gain the weight shed lost. First stop? Fast food.

The first thing I did was go and get Panda Express at the Virgin America airport terminal at JFK. Then I landed in L.A. and I got in my car and I drove to In-N-Out (Burger) and I had a Double Double Animal Style with a root-beer float. It was fantastic, she told the Boston Herald. A girl after our own hearts.

A personal trainer can be an invaluable investment for someone with the time and money (not always possible, we know cheers, cost of living crisis), and Mila knows the deal. She worked out with Brian Abercrombie in prep for her role in the Black Swan, who helped her train as safely and sustainably as possible, albeit with such an extreme aesthetic goal to achieve.

PT not an option? Our guides on everything from technique and form for strength training, weightlifting and cardio can be a useful resource. Alternatively, try following one of our many training plans, like this 7-day workout plan for beginners with Kayla Itsines, or this 14-day kettlebell workout plan with Cass Olholm.

Whether with a specific workout split, push-pull workout plan or training method, achieving your goals will be a ton easier if you decipher a clear-cut way of getting there. When Mila trained with PT Brian, he used a technique called P.A.S.E. (Power, Agility, Strength and Endurance). Why? For one, its an efficient form of workout for someone tight for time like Mila, since it incorporates the whole body rather than one part, but it also ticks off four major elements of fitness: power, agility, strength and endurance.

The traditional P.A.S.E. workout is formed of six exercises, done in circuits for 40 minutes with no rest:

TRX Move Suspension Trainer

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Mila values her downtime as much as the next gal, and her fave way to switch off is by spending time with her friends. Well hang out by the pool, have mai tais, and roll around in the grass with my dogs, she told WH US. Since the time of WH's interview, shes become a mother to two and is married to Ashton Kutcher (follow his IG for a look at their home life), so she undoubtedly now spends time with her family, too.

For anyone with a busy lifestyle like Mila, a routine can be an easy way to maintain a clear head without getting overwhelmed. Speaking to Harpers Bazaar, Mila said shes always been a creature of habit.

During her first pregnancy with son Wyatt, Mila was photographed outside a yoga studio with her bump in full bloom, and shes not the only celeb who practices yoga on the reg. Kate Hudson, Halle Berry and Jennifer Aniston are also big fans, and have spoken about the effect it has on both their physical and mental health.

Check out the best yoga studios in London, as well as the best yoga stretches to practice daily.

Go here to see the original:
9 reasons Mila Kunis is fitter than ever at 39 + everything we know about her diet and exercise routine - Women's Health UK

Soy is common in many Asian cuisines, and is growing more popular in Western countries as many people aim for predominantly plant-based diets. It offers many potential health benefits and is generally cheaper than meat.

However, you might have heard soy is linked to cancer risk, or that it can have a feminising effect on men.

But what does the research actually say on this?

In fact, most research finds eating a moderate amount of soy is unlikely to cause problems and may even provide benefits. All said, you can safely include moderate amounts of soy foods in your daily diet.

Soy is rich in high quality protein, and contains B vitamins, fibre, minerals and the isoflavones daidzein, genistein and glycitein.

Isoflavones have a similar structure to natural estrogen and are sometimes called phytoestrogens (phyto means plant). Soy isoflavones can bind to estrogen receptors in the body. They can act in a way similar to natural estrogen but with a much, much weaker effect.

Some studies have flagged concerns but these tend to be related to people consuming extremely high amounts of soy such as one unusual case report about a man with gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue in men) who, it turned out, was drinking almost three litres of soy milk a day.

As one literature review noted, many of the other studies highlighting concerns in this area are are based on animals trials or rare one-off cases (case reports).

The same literature review noted that while more long term data in Western countries is needed, moderate amounts of soy in traditional soy preparations offer modest health benefits with very limited risk for potential adverse health effects.

One study of 73,223 Chinese women over more than seven years found:

Women who consumed a high amount of soy foods consistently during adolescence and adulthood had a substantially reduced risk of breast cancer. No significant association with soy food consumption was found for postmenopausal breast cancer.

This could be due to different types and amounts of soy eaten (as well as genetics).

Some animal trials and studies in cells show very high doses of isoflavones or isolated soy protein may stimulate breast cancer growth, but this is not evident in human trials.

A study in Japanese males reported high intake of miso soup (1-5 cups per day), might increase the risk of gastric cancer.

But the authors also said:

We thought that some other ingredients in miso soup might also play a role [] For example, high concentrations of salt in miso soup could also increase the risk of gastric cancer.

Soy contains isoflavones, healthy fats like polyunsaturated fats, fibre, vitamins and minerals, and is also low in saturated fat.

Swapping meat in the diet with soy products is going to reduce the amount of saturated fat you eat while also boosting intake of important nutrients.

A study with nearly half a million Chinese adults free of cardiovascular disease, showed those who consumed soy four or more days a week had significantly lower risk of death from a heart attack compared with those who never ate soy.

Replacing red meat with plant proteins including soy products has been associated with a lower risk of developing heart disease.

If you want to include soy in your diet, choose whole soy foods like calcium-enriched soy beverages, tempeh, soy bread, tofu and soybeans over highly processed options high in salt and saturated fat.

Research on soy is ongoing and we still need more long-term data on intakes in Australia and health benefits.

Overall, however, moderate amounts of soy foods can be consumed as part of a healthy diet and may even help with some symptoms of menopause.

According to the Victorian governments Better Health Channel:

one or two daily serves of soy products can be beneficial to our health.

Harvard Universitys School of Public Health says soy:

can safely be consumed several times a week, and probably more often, and is likely to provide health benefits especially when eaten as an alternative to red and processed meat.

So dont stress too much about the soy milk in your coffee and tea or the tofu burger for lunch.

Karen Murphy, Associate Professor of Nutrition & Dietetics and Accredited Practicing Dietitian, University of South Australia

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Continued here:
Heard Rumours About Health Risks Linked to Soy? Heres What Science Really Says - Lifehacker Australia

Skin tags and moles are common skin conditions. They can also be annoying. Sometimes, they can even be dangerous.

We dont know the cause of all skin tags. However, some develop skin tags because of friction say, if your necklace or seat belt rubs against a specific part of your body.

Most skin tags are harmless. Theyre simply collections of loose collagen fibers formed in a fold of your skin.

Most moles are also harmless, although some moles need to be checked by a dermatologist to verify theyre not cancerous.

Fortunately, its easy to remove skin tags and moles at home.

Today, there are plenty of skin tag and mole removal systems and products you can use at home to safely, quickly, and discreetly remove skin tags. You can also use natural remedies to remove skin tags.

What are the best skin tags and mole removers? We answered that question by analyzing the top products available today. Here are our rankings.

All skin tag and mole removal systems claim to efficiently remove skin tags and moles. However, only the best products are proven to work.

Our editorial team analyzed lab reports, contacted manufacturers, consulted with dermatologists, and personally tested products whoever possible to compile the rankings below:

Amarose Skin Tag Remover is the number one skin tag and mole remover product available right now. Due to its outstanding customer results and user feedback found on the official Amarose Skin Tag Remover website, this advanced formula is completely safe and potent for being a very natural and gentle topical solution that helps remove those pesky moles and skin tags. The Beverly Hills Amarose Mole & Skin Tag Corrector Serum goes to work fast and provides a simple solution that can be applied at home and can be effective for skin tags, dark moles, light moles, small warts and big warts.

This blemish-free Skin Tag Remover from Amarose utilizes top quality ingredients such as Sanguinaria Canadensis and Zincum Muriaticum. The product is very easy to use, has no smell and is clear in color. The liquid Amarose Skin Tag Mole Remover serum applies smoothly and provides optimal results for customers of all types and needs.

Skincell Pro is a skin tag removal system that uses a revolutionary, all-natural formula to eliminate skin tags and moles anywhere on your body.

According to the manufacturer, Skincell Pro could work faster than virtually any other skin tag removal system on our list, clearing blemishes within as little as 8 hours.

To achieve these benefits, Skincell Pros topical formula contains zincum muriaticum (a natural antiseptic and disinfectant) and sanguinaria canadensis (also known as bloodroot). These ingredients work over a four-stage process to remove the skin tag from your body and prevent scarring after removal.

Price: $59

Skincell Advanced is a mole and skin tag removal system that comes in the form of a highly-concentrated serum. You apply the serum to your skin tag using the included brush. The skin tag remover has salicylic acid to loosen and break apart imperfections, targeting skin tags, moles, and warts.

By applying two coats of Skincell Advanced to your skin tag daily, you can remove the skin tag easily. Allow the solution to dry between coats, and repeat the procedure daily for up to 12 weeks to complete the removal process.

Skincell Advanced contains a proprietary blend of tea tree and castor oils. These oils have traditionally been used as cleansers and purifiers. By applying them to your skin tag or mole daily, you can safely and quickly remove the unwanted blemish.

Price: $35

Derma Correct is a skin tag remover serum that comes in a glass jar with a dropper. You use the dropper to apply the serum to your skin tag daily. According to the manufacturer, it works in just a few days to safely remove skin tags from anywhere on your body.

Derma Correct uses unique ingredients like aloe vera, bloodroot, and other essential oils and fruit extracts. Some of these ingredients work because theyre rich with antioxidants (like vitamin C). Other ingredients work because theyre filled with antioxidants and other components.

Derma Correct also has an ingredient we dont see in other skin tag removal systems: turmeric. Turmeric is rich with curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory that could support healthy inflammation. It can help reduce scarring after removing your skin tag.

Price: $69

CompoundW is the best-known skin tag and mole removal system available online and in stores today. Recommended by dermatologists for its proven results, CompoundW is an effective way to remove minor skin tags and moles at home.

CompoundW works using a simple two step system: you isolate the skin tag using the small, plastic device included in the kit. Then, you use the foam tip applicator to freeze the skin tag instantly. We like CompoundW because you can remove the skin tag without harming the surrounding skin. The TagTarget makes it easy to focus on the skin tag and mole.

Priced at around $34 for a home removal kit with 8 applications, CompoundW can help you quickly, easily, and cheaply remove a skin tag at home without needing to visit a doctor or dermatologist.

Price: $34

TagBand is a skin tag remover device designed for medium and large skin tags. While other DIY skin tag removal kits on this list are designed for smaller skin tags, TagBand is specifically designed for medium and large skin tags.

Priced at $23, the TagBand kit can remove skin tags that are 4mm to 6mm at their widest point. You apply the kit in four easy steps with no freezing or burning required. You can use TagBand on all areas of the face and body (excluding the sensitive area around your eyes).

Each TagBand kit includes one TagBand removal tool, 10x removal bands, 10x cleansing wipes, and an instruction manual. You can treat up to 10 skin tags within minutes at home, using a proven system to eliminate unwanted skin tags from your body.

Price: $22.95

Micro TagBand is the original ligation skin tag removal kit. TagBand uses the ligation method to restrict blood flow to your skin tag, allowing it to quickly fall off.

Like other skin tag removal kits, TagBand features small, rubber bands to reduce blood flow to the skin tag. This blood flow is vital for the growth and survival of the skin tag. By restricting blood flow, you naturally and safely kill the skin tag, allowing you to resume living a normal life.

Each Micro TagBand kit can treat up to 10 skin tags. Each kit includes one TagBand removal device, 10 x micro removal bands, and 10 x cleansing wipes. The kit is designed to target small and medium-sized skin tags (2mm to 4mm at their widest point). However, you can use the original TagBand kit for larger skin tags.

Price: $26.95

The Ulensy Skin Tag Remover is a skin tag removal kit with 36 pieces, making it the largest kit on our list. Each kit comes with everything you need to quickly and safely remove skin tags, including 36 skin repair patches, 12 cleansing wipes, 24 standard bands, and 1 instruction manual.

Ulensy recommends using their Skin Tag Remover kit on small to large (4mm to 8mm) skin tags. When using the kit correctly, you can safely remove skin tags without leaving permanent scars or irritations.

Just follow the 6 easy steps in the Ulensy Skin Tag Remover instruction manual. You can remove skin tags from the comfort of your own home all without a painful or expensive visit to the dermatologist.

Price: $23.99

Every skin tag and mole removal system claims to eliminate skin tags safely. Unfortunately, most of them dont work.

To separate the best and worst skin tag removal kits and create the rankings above, we used the following factors:

Moneyback or Satisfaction Guarantee: All good skin tag manufacturers stand behind their products with a moneyback or satisfaction guarantee. Even the best skin tag removal kits dont work for everyone. If your skin tag removal kit doesnt remove your skin tag, then you should be able to obtain a refund. We preferred skin tag removal kits that had a strong moneyback or satisfaction guarantee.

Proven Ingredients or Methods: Some skin tag removal kits use freezing solutions, tea tree oil, salicylic acid, and other proven ingredients to eliminate skin tags. Others use homeopathic remedies or unproven ingredients like apple cider vinegar. We preferred skin tag removal kits that used proven ingredients or methods.

Safety: Some skin tag removal kits come with safety features like a protective case to focus on the skin tag without damaging the surrounding skin. We preferred skin tags that emphasized safety.

Ease of Use: Some skin tag removal kits are easy to apply in seconds. Just tap the brush against your skin to quickly and easily remove the skin tag. Other skin tag removal kits take minutes to apply and come with complicated instructions. We personally tested each skin tag removal kit wherever possible, and we preferred kits that were easy to use.

Dermatologist Approved or Recommended: Most dermatologists do not recommend using skin tag removal kits. When used incorrectly, they can be dangerous. Thats why we particularly appreciate skin tag removal kits that are recommended or endorsed by dermatologists. Some of the top-ranked skin tag removal kits on our list have been approved, certified, and endorsed by dermatologists.

Price, Value, and Overall Cost: Some skin tag removal kits seem affordable, but you need to buy 3 or 4 kits to remove an average skin tag. Other skin tag removal kits offer good value, allowing you to cheaply remove a skin tag at a fraction of the price you would pay at the dermatologist.

A skin tag is a piece of skin consisting of collagen fibers. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, and its the protein that forms your skin. When strands of collagen lump together at folds of your skin, it can crease a skin tag.

Skin tags are generally harmless. However, some find them annoying. Others find them unsightly.

If you have a skin tag that you want to remove, then you can buy a skin tag or mole removal kit for use at home. Alternatively, you can visit a dermatologist or other doctor to remove the skin tag.

We dont know the cause of all skin tags. However, we do know certain risk factors associated with skin tags.

Obesity is the biggest risk factor for developing skin tags. People who are overweight or obese tend to have a much higher chance of developing skin tags.

In one 2010 study, for example, researchers found that people with type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes were more likely to develop skin tags. When you have diabetes or pre-diabetes, your body doesnt absorb glucose from your bloodstream as effectively. This can increase the risk of developing skin tags.

Another study from 2008 found a connection between human papillomavirus (HPV) and skin tags. Researchers collected skin tag samples from across the body. Approximately 50% of tested skin tags contained HPV DNA.

Many people develop skin tags when pregnant. The combination of pregnancy hormones and weight gain appears to increase the risk of developing skin tags.

In others, skin tags can be a sign of hormone imbalance or an endocrine problem.

Overall, we need more research to determine the cause of all skin tags. However, we know certain risk factors that appear to increase the chance of developing a skin tag.

You can remove skin tags at home by following the instructions included with your skin tag or mole removal product. Alternatively, you can visit a doctor or dermatologist for professional skin tag removal.

Some of the ways to remove skin tags include:

DIY Home Removal Kits: Skin tag and mole removal kits can make it safe and easy to remove unwanted skin tags at home.

Cryotherapy: Dermatologists may use cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen spray) to freeze away a skin tag.

Surgical Removal: Doctors may surgically remove the skin tag, cutting the skin tag away from your body. This is also known as cutting.

Topical Treatment: Doctors may apply a topical anesthetic numbing cream into the skin tag before removal to minimize discomfort and avoid post-removal scarring.

Burning: Some dermatologists burn away a skin tag. They run an electric current through a wire. The wire becomes hot enough to burn the upper layers of skin. This is more common for larger skin tags, although it may require multiple treatments.

Laser Treatment: Laser treatment has become more common in recent years for a variety of skin issues. However, laser treatment is not commonly used for skin tags and moles. Lasers can increase the risk of pain and scarring, and theyre a more invasive method than freezing, cutting, or shaving off a mole or skin tag.

To identify dangerous moles and skin tags, remember the ABCDEs:

Asymmetry: Skin tags can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. However, if one half of your mole does not match the other, then it could be a sign of skin cancer.

Border: If the borders of your mole are ragged, blurred, jagged, or irregular, then you should have it checked by a doctor.

Color: Most moles have a solid color throughout. If your mole has multiple colors or different shades throughout like black, blue, red, white, or brown at different parts of the mole), then you should get it checked.

Diameter: If your mole is larger than the diameter of the eraser of a pencil, then you should get it checked.

Elevation and Evolution: If your mole has become elevated or raised after previously being flat, or if it evolves or changes over a short period of time, then it could be a sign of skin cancer.

Skin tag and mole removal kits work in different ways. Some kits freeze away skin tags and moles. Others use topical ointments to soothe the area. Some skin tag removal systems involve bands or patches.

Skin tag removal creams contain salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and similar ingredients similar to acne-fighting medication. Some dermatologists claim these systems are an effective way to remove skin tags. Other dermatologists recommend avoiding this removal creams because they can irritate the skin. However, when you choose the right skin tag removal cream, the skin tag could fall off in 2-3 weeks.

Home skin tag freezing kits come with a spray. You spray the skin tag directly while avoiding contact with surrounding skin. Some recommend applying petroleum jelly to the area to help protect the skin. When done correctly, a freezing kit could freeze and kill the skin tag, allowing it to fall away within 2 to 3 weeks. Some freezing kits require multiple applications to work effectively.

Some skin tag removal systems involve tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, iodine, or other natural ingredients. Natural ointments and solutions include:

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil can help treat several skin conditions. For removing skin tags, apply the tea tree oil to a cotton ball, then attach the tea tree oil to the skin tag. Do this multiple times per day. Tea tree oil can irritate sensitive skin, but it can also cause your skin tag to fall away.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is a popular traditional treatment for skin tags. Theres limited evidence proving apple cider vinegar works for home skin tag removal. However, you use it similar to tea tree oil: add apple cider vinegar to a cotton ball, then apply it to your skin tag daily.

Iodine: Some use iodine solutions to remove skin tags at home. Add iodine to a cotton ball, using petroleum jelly or coconut jelly to protect the surrounding skin.

Some people cut away skin tags at home using scissors, nail clippers, a needle, or a sharp blade. Generally, you should not cut or clip a skin tag without the supervision of a medical professional. Although you may be able to remove the skin tag on your own, you could increase the risk of permanent scarring in the area. Alternatively, you might not be able to safely remove the entire skin tag, leaving parts of the skin tag behind.

Note: Avoid using DIY home skin tag removal kits if the skin tag is located around your eyes or genitals. You should also stop using the skin tag removal kit if its causing pain, bleeding, or itching. Do not use DIY skin tag removal kits on skin tags that are very large or long.

You can remove skin tags at home using natural ingredients. in fact, some people safely remove skin tags and moles without ever visiting a dermatologist.

Skin tags are more common than ever. However, people have been treating skin tags for centuries. Before modern medicine and dermatology, people used natural ingredients like tea tree oil to remove skin tags.

Research shows that tea tree oil has natural antiviral and antifungal properties, making it safe to use on the skin. Wash the affected area, then massage the oil over your skin tag. Wrap a bandage around the skin tag overnight to allow the tea tree oil to soak in. By repeating this treatment for several nights, you may be able to quickly and safely remove the skin tag.

Others use banana peels to remove skin tags and moles. Although theres limited scientific evidence backing this phenomenon, some claim that banana peels help dry out skin tags. Leave a banana peel over the skin tag, then cover it with a bandage. Repeat nightly until the skin tag falls off.

Vitamin E and vitamin C are two of the most popular antioxidants in the natural world. Both common vitamins can be found in foods particularly fruits. Some people apply vitamin E-based formulas directly to their skin to help with skin tags, aging, wrinkles, and general inflammation.

Garlic may be one of the best ways to get rid of a skin tag or target skin inflammation. Garlic has natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. If using garlic has a home remedy for skin tags, apply crushed garlic over the skin tag, then cover the area with a bandage overnight.

Some of the top-ranked skin tag and mole removal kits above use these ingredients and others to safely eradicate skin tags and moles from your body.

After removing a skin tag, you must take certain steps to limit scarring and damage.

The best type of aftercare treatment is to wash the area with soap and water regularly.

If you experience chafing in the area where you removed the skin tag, then cover the area with a bandage to prevent the development of another skin tag in the area.

If you dont care for your skin properly after skin tag removal, then you could develop an infection or complication. Some people develop noticeable scars after removal especially if using an unproven skin tag removal kit at home.

If a doctor or dermatologist removed your skin tag, then youll receive specific instructions on treating your skin tag.

By following basic hygiene procedures, you can limit scarring and other unwanted after effects after your skin tag has been removed.

If you just removed a skin tag, then you may develop more skin tags in the future. Skin tags are linked to obesity, chafing, and certain medical conditions. They can also be caused by unknown phenomena.

To prevent future skin tags, follow the tips below:

By following these tips, you can prevent future skin tags or at least know instantly when these skin tags form.

Millions of people have skin tags. Theyre a common problem so it makes sense that we get plenty of questions about skin tags, moles, and how to remove them.

Here are some of the answers to our most frequently asked questions.

A: A skin tag is a small lump of fleshy brown, tan, or pink skin. Some skin tags are raised areas of the skin. Others hang from a small stalk.

A: Skin tags can develop on your eyelids, neck, armpit, and groin.

See the article here:
Amarose Skin Tag Remover Review - The Best Skin Tag Mole Remover? - Tacoma Daily News

Nobody enjoys a trip to the ER and while we can all appreciate hospitals and emergency healthcare workers, avoiding them is something most of us do. Staying healthy and taking preventive measures can help ward off hospitalization stays and Dr. Tomi Mitchell, a Board-Certified Family Physician with Holistic Wellness Strategies shares with Eat This, Not That! Health her 10 tips for staying out of the hospital. Read onand to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

Dr. Mitchell shares, "Other than possibly having a baby, being hospitalized isn't something most people want. In my experience and with other healthcare professionals, there are similarities to why certain individuals get admitted, and others do not. For example, the vast majority of the time, when an individual is admitted to the hospital, it is for one of three reasons: uncontrolled symptoms, unmanageable stress, or severe medical instability. When an individual experiences uncontrolled symptoms, their current treatment approach is not working, and they need around-the-clock observation and support to ensure their safety. Uncontrolled symptoms can be caused by various things but are most often due to psychiatric conditions or Substance Use Disorders. In addition, unmanageable stress is often related to life events such as death or divorce. Severe medical instability can be caused by several things but is most often the result of an exacerbation of a chronic medical condition or an acute illness. Even though there are common reasons for admission, every individual's experience in the hospital is unique. Here are 10 tactics to avoid being hospitalized."

Dr. Mitchell reveals, "I have often seen patients decide their schedule for taking their medications. They may believe that they can space their doses out however they want or that it does not matter when they take their medication as long as they eventually do. However, this could not be further from the truth. Medications can have drug interactions, and sometimes spacing meds is critical. Patients put themselves at risk for serious adverse events without knowing the purpose of a medication, its possible side effects, and when to seek care. I strongly urge all patients to speak with their pharmacist or provider before starting any new drug to ensure that they take it safely and effectively."

Dr. Mitchell tells us, "When you are sick, your risk of being hospitalized increases; this is especially true if you have chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people with chronic illnesses are more likely to be hospitalized than people without chronic illnesses. Chronic illness is a leading cause of hospitalization in the United States. The CDC estimates that six out of 10 adults have at least one chronic illness. In addition, one in four adults in the US has at least one chronic illness, accounting for more than 70% of hospitalizations. This means that if you have a chronic illness, it's essential to take steps to manage your condition and stay healthy. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking medication as prescribed, and seeing your doctor for regular checkups. By taking these steps, you can help reduce your risk of hospitalization."

"When something goes wrong with our bodies, it's natural to feel alarmed," Dr. Mitchell states. "After all, our bodies are literally the vessels that keep us alive, so when they show signs of distress, it's only natural that we would want to take action. One such sign of distress is unexplained bleeding. Whether a nosebleed that won't stop or a small cut that just won't heal, bleeding is our body's way of telling us that something is wrong. And while it might be tempting to ignore these symptoms in the hopes that they will go away on their own, doing so can often lead to further complications. Ignoring a bloody nose, for example, could result in anemia or brain damage. Similarly, failing to treat a cut could lead to a life-threatening infection. In short, bleeding is a sign of something going on with your body. Failure to attend to those symptoms might result in illness progression that, unfortunately, will require hospitalization. So if you find yourself bleeding for no apparent reason, don't wait make an appointment with your doctor immediately. It could save your life."6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Dr. Mitchell tells us, "I have often told my patients to listen to their gut or intuition." This advice has saved their lives, and even my own, and that of my family. Therefore, it is essential to advocate for yourself when things don't seem right. Failure to listen to your body could result in serious complications, which could land you in the hospital. We all know the countless stories where someone knew something was wrong but brushed it off, only to find out later it was severe. I firmly believe our bodies are very active and will let us know when something is wrong. Often, we are so busy with our lives that we ignore these signals. Or we may be in denial that something could be wrong. Whatever the case may be, we need to make sure we are listening to our bodies, and if something doesn't feel right, please don't hesitate to reach out to a medical professional. It could save your life."

Dr. Mitchell says, "Though no one likes to think about getting sick, preventive screenings can be essential in maintaining your health. They can help to detect illnesses early when they are often more treatable. In some cases, preventive screenings may even help you avoid hospitalization altogether. For example, screenings for conditions like cancer and diabetes can help to catch these diseases in their early stages, when they are often more easily treated. In addition, screenings for high blood pressure and cholesterol can help identify people at risk for heart disease. By getting preventive screenings and making lifestyle changes as needed, you can decrease your risk of illness and hospitalization in the future."

Dr. Mitchell reminds us, "Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking cigarettes kills more than 480,000 Americans yearly. Given the significant health risks associated with smoking, it is essential to avoid starting smoking or quitting if you currently smoke. One way to do this is to prevent situations where you are likely exposed to cigarette smoke. For example, if you have friends or family members who smoke, ask them not to smoke around you. Avoid places where people are smoking, such as bars or nightclubs. You can also take steps to make your home and smoke-free car zones.

In addition to avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, quitting smoking can dramatically reduce your risk of developing severe health problems. Smoking has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. It can also help improve lung function and increase lifespan. If you are considering quitting smoking, many resources are available to help you, including support groups and cessation programs. Taking steps to avoid smoking or quitting if you currently smoke is one of the best things you can do for your health."

"It can be tempting to stop taking medication as soon as you start to feel better," Dr. Mitchell states. "After all, why continue to take something if it is no longer needed? However, it is essential to remember that medications are prescribed for a reason. For example, stopping a course of antibiotics early can lead to drug-resistant bacteria. And while it may seem like stopping other medications will have no consequences, this is not always the case. In some instances, abruptly discontinuing medication can increase your risk of needing hospitalization in the future. So, if you are considering stopping your medication, talk to your prescriber first. Then, they will be able to give you the best advice on how to proceed."

Dr. Mitchell shares, "Urinary tract infections are prevalent, but in particular at-risk individuals, such as diabetics, those with neurological deficits, and the elderly, to name a few, a urinary tract infection can become severe and lead to an infection in the blood (sepsis), which will require hospitalization. Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include increased frequency of urination, urgency, burning with urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and low-grade fever. If you have any of these symptoms, it is essential to see your healthcare provider so that they can perform a urinalysis to confirm the diagnosis and start you on antibiotics if necessary. Untreated urinary tract infections can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition characterized by high fever, chills, rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing. If you or someone you know has any of the above symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately."

Dr. Mitchell emphasizes, "There is no denying that humans are social animals. We are hardwired to crave connection, and research has shown that social interactions play a vital role in our physical and mental health. For example, studies have shown that maintaining strong social networks can decrease your risk of developing physical and mental illnesses. Additionally, social networks provide an essential support system that can help you recover from illness more quickly. Having a solid social network is essential for maintaining good health. So go out there and make friends- your body will thank you for it!"

Dr. Mitchell says, "Staying physically active is very important for various reasons. Staying active can reduce your chance of illness, reducing your chance of ever needing hospitalization. However, staying physically active doesn't just reduce your chance of heart disease. It can also reduce your risk of cancer, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. In addition, staying active can improve your mental health, increase your energy levels, and help you sleep better. With all of these benefits, it's clear that staying physically active is one of the best things you can do for your health."

Dr. Mitchell says this "doesn't constitute medical advice and by no means are these answers meant to be comprehensive. Rather, it's to encourage discussions about health choices."

Here is the original post:
How To Avoid Ever Being Hospitalized: 10 Tactics Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

WE'RE told many things when it comes to food: dont skip meals, but skip snacks, eat intuitively, but not too much

It can all get very confusing! So its easy to see how the simplicity of intermittent fasting where, sticking to your usual calorie intake, you restrict eating to certain times of the day can seem attractive.

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Even more so if youre keen to lose weight, which lots of us are this summer saw a whopping 1,100% increase in Google searches for: How to lose stubborn belly fat.

According to research by Harvard School of Public Health, intermittent fasting sees a typical weight loss of 7-11lb when followed for 10 weeks.

Ten weeks seemed a bit much for my first try, but would two make a difference to my health, happiness and the number on my bathroom scales?

A drop in insulin during fasting is shown to facilitate fat burning. Growth hormone levels may also increase, which can support fat burning and muscle formation, says nutritionist Rob Hobson, co-author of The Detox Kitchen Bible.

Fasting also appears to improve insulin sensitivity, which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, says Rob.

Studies have also found fasting can help ward off arthritis*, chronic pain** and high blood pressure***, while the increased levels of healthy gut bacteria that come from intermittent fasting aid digestion, and a happy gut is linked to improved mental health.

So far, fasting almost sounds too good to be true, and Im not one for calorie-counting either, which makes it even more appealing.

As someone who suffers from irritable bowel syndrome, cutting down my window of eating, avoiding late-night snacking and allowing my digestive system time to work its magic also seemed like something I couldbenefit from.

I opt for the 16:8 diet, which involves eating within an eight-hour window, then fasting for 16 hours (other variations include 14:10, and 5:2, in which you fast for two days in a week).

In theory, you sleep through the bulk of the 16 hours, setting your eating window as 9am-5pm or 12pm-8pm, so you can fit in your usual breakfast, lunch and dinner times.

But you can set any hours that suit you. During week one, it was difficult to get a handle on my fasting window.

Due to a busy schedule, I had to alternate the hours I ate to avoid being antisocial, which at times meant not eating for a whole 24 hours.

As a result, during the eight-hour window I could eat, I was gorging on everything I could get my hands on, which was counter-productive.

There is huge scope for giving in to hunger, says Rob, which could result in binge-eating and unhealthy snacking.

To keep energy levels up, I was snacking a lot on apples, as theyre said to curb hunger pangs, and bananas, but also crisps and biscuits.

I was so tired and irritable, getting annoyed over silly things, such as my boyfriend eating when I couldnt.

I even cancelled plans because I couldnt face doing anything.

On the plus side, by the end of the first week, Id noticed my bowel movements had become more regular, because my body had time to actually digest what I was eating and, as a result, I felt less bloated.

Even still, the number on the scales hadnt budged.

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For week two, I wanted to be more mindful about what and when I was eating.

I set my feasting window from 12pm-8pm, stuck to it and squeezed in three meals. It was tough though.

Rob told me to increase my fibre and protein intake to ward off hunger pangs.

Breakfast (eaten more around lunchtime) was peanut butter on toast, overnight oats or Greek yoghurt and fruit.

Id try to make a falafel wrap for lunch, and for dinner found myself having carbs like potatoes or pasta to keep me fuller for longer.

When I ate light options, such as salmon and broccoli, Id wake up starving in the night.

I assumed fasting meant avoiding tea, coffee or other drinks that help take the edge off tummy rumbles, but you dont have to rule them out.

In fact, Rob suggests getting creative with your options. You are going to get hungry, so stock up on miso soup and low-calorie hot chocolate to have during your fasting window, he says.

I upped my fluids throughout the day and realised that when I thought I was hungry, sometimes I was actually just dehydrated.

Although I didnt drop any weight during my fortnight on the 16:8 plan, at times I did feel less bloated and could fit comfortably into a tighter skirt than usual.

I also drank more water, became mindful about what I was eating to stay energised and I ditched evening snacking (which is a real culprit when it comes to piling on the pounds).

However, I underestimated how hard fasting would be.

Cavemen were pros at it, fasting until they caught and killed their next meal, and some religions regularly feature periods of fasting, so its doable, but my concentration, tolerance level and sleep suffered drastically, plus I ended up avoiding exercise because I felt too weak.

Rob suggests exercising between meals so you are fuelled up with the energy and protein to promote muscle recovery, but I found it exhausting.

Logistically, fasting is tricky. When I meal-prepped in advance, it felt easier but knowing those healthy meals were waiting for me in the fridge, Id want to eat them sooner, which made it even more difficult to stick to my feasting window.

For me, fasting for weight loss just didnt feel sustainable for more than a couple of weeks even if it did kick my late-night snacking habits into touch!

Your Feasting-Window Meal Plan

Follow Rob Hobsons menu to keep you from reaching for the snacks

Breakfast

Porridge with milk and topped with honey, nuts, seeds, cinnamon and fruit. Stir in yoghurt for extra protein and calcium.

Lunch

Wholemeal wrap or pitta bread, filled with salad and a protein (meat, fish, tofu or cheese). Add a handful of grain, such as brown rice or quinoa, and mashed avocado.

Dinner

Grain-based salad with veg, a protein and healthy fats (avocado, nuts, seeds). Dress the salad with olive oil and lemon juice. Follow with a dessert of yoghurt and fruit.

Original post:
I tried popular weight loss diet for two weeks heres the surprising things I learned... - The US Sun

Sep 15, 2022

Eric GomezMexico writer

Canelo Alvarez will complete one of this century's most exciting boxing trilogies when he faces Gennadiy Golovkin on Sept. 17 in Las Vegas. The rivalry features hallmarks of some of the sport's all-time best -- explosive punching power by both fighters inside the ring, coupled with a fiery mutual dislike of each other outside of it.

Going into the trilogy, the fight also displays a subplot of its own: Alvarez's dalliance with a vegan diet, and a return to eating red meat following his most recent loss.

Before facing WBA light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol last May, Alvarez revealed he had adopted a near-vegan diet. He said he stopped eating red meat in 2018 following a positive test for clenbuterol, a banned substance sometimes fed illegally to cows in Mexico. Alvarez alleged he had come into contact with clenbuterol after eating tainted meat in his home country. Regardless, the Nevada Athletic Commission suspended him for six months, delaying his second fight with Golovkin -- a fight the Mexican boxer won via split decision.

"I'm not complicated when it comes to food. I adapt quickly," Alvarez told ESPN earlier this year. "I eat [a vegan diet] all week now and if one day the opportunity presents to eat red meat, chicken or whatever, I'll have no problem with that. But I do try to keep vegan [right now]."

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The impetus behind Alvarez's change to vegan came after watching "The Game Changers," a documentary about athletes who incorporate plant-based diets. During training, Alvarez relied solely on vegan protein five days a week but ate fish and chicken on weekends.

"His output hasn't changed at all, physically he looks very strong and I don't see any change in him after he switched his diet," said Munir Somoya, who worked with Alvarez as part of his training team.

Come fight night, Bivol dominated Alvarez and retained his crown by way of unanimous decision. Bivol relied on his superior size and reach to hold Canelo to a career-low 84 punches landed over a full 12 rounds. Fighting at his preferred weight, Bivol used a two-inch reach advantage and taller frame, coupled with fluid movements and high energy output throughout to flummox Alvarez. In the later rounds, the usually durable Alvarez, who has won titles in four different weight classes, seemed sluggish and tired.

Alvarez's sudden dietary switch became a talking point after the fight. Among the critics, Alvarez's former promoter Oscar De La Hoya questioned the boxer's choices in the run-up to the Bivol fight.

"When you change something drastic like your diet overnight, you run the risk of it not working for your body, and it not adjusting properly," De La Hoya told reporters.

Since the loss, Alvarez is no longer training on a primarily plant-based diet as part of his fight plan to face Golovkin at super middleweight on Saturday.

"I tried to do it for some weeks and it's very complicated to change everything all of a sudden," Alvarez told the Associated Press in an interview. "So now, like I have all my life, I'm eating what I did before."

While Alvarez didn't use the diet to excuse his loss, his flirtation with veganism is notable in the sports world. In recent years, a number of elite athletes, including tennis stars Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams as well as Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton have followed plant-based diets.

A consistent vegan diet over months or even as quickly as weeks can positively affect the maximum amount of oxygen a person's body can absorb and use during exercise, while maintaining strength through a similar level of plant-based protein intake. That's according to The Impact of Vegan and Vegetarian Diets on Physical Performance and Molecular Signaling in Skeletal Muscle, an academic paper published in 2021 by members of the Institute of Sport Science at the University of Hildesheim in Germany. However, the authors admit "research on the influence of a vegan or vegetarian diet on exercise performance is scarce."

Because of the lack of research, it remains impossible to make any conclusive judgment across the board for any athlete who chooses to transition toward a plant-based diet. Any change -- whether plant-based or not -- can carry adverse effects for a high performance athlete, the experts say.

"In Canelo's case, going on a mostly plant-based diet shouldn't have been done so near to a fight," said Colette Gonzalez, a nutritionist from Alvarez's hometown of Guadalajara. "We can't change a high-performance athlete's diet in such a radical fashion and expect them to perform the same way."

Though Alvarez has made other dietary shifts during his career before fights he ended up winning, a vegan diet -- or even a near-vegan diet -- requires time to adapt, Gonzalez said. "There was clearly not enough time to gauge how the change would affect his muscle mass or his energy requirements for such an important fight."

As for the apparent fatigue Alvarez showed during later rounds in his last bout, Gonzalez says diet isn't entirely to blame. Higher weight and muscle mass requires the body to exert more energy, and though Alvarez had sparred and fought at 175 pounds before, a fast opponent with quick hands like Bivol simply outboxed him as time went on.

"Any time you gain weight, your body has to adapt. If your opponent is more accustomed to that weight, it's a disadvantage," Gonzalez said.

Combat sports in general can claim a few top-level ambassadors for vegan or vegetarian lifestyles. Former heavyweight champion David Haye famously took on a vegan diet in 2014 in defense of animal rights, and maintained his diet toward the end of his career. Haye's change in lifestyle, however, had come after the dwindling of his prime, fighting only in a handful of bouts on a plant-based diet.

"If you don't have any examples of plant-based athletes who are succeeding in your sport, you're going to think this doesn't work here," said Bryan Danielson, a pro wrestler for AEW who went vegan in 2009. "You need people who look like you or do what you do to succeed."

Danielson initially adopted the diet for health reasons -- while training for WWE events, he developed three staph infections over the course of a year. Before then, Danielson suffered through a weak immune system for most of his life. Shortly after the switch to veganism, the infections went away and the diet became permanent.

With the guidance of a trainer, Danielson -- known as Daniel Bryan during his WWE days -- reached peak physical yield under the diet. "I've deadlifted 518 pounds while on a full vegan diet," Danielson said. "There was no difference in my performance. The only difference was I instantly stopped getting sick."

When Alvarez chose to drop red meat prior to his second meeting with Golovkin, he still ate other types of animal protein. The shift was made in direct response to, arguably, his career lowlight.

Alvarez tested positive for clenbuterol in 2018, a banned substance catalogued as a performance-enhancing drug. He claimed it had accidently entered his body via tainted meat. In Mexico, the illegal practice of feeding cows pulverized clenbuterol pills in order to stimulate their growth and obtain more meat has been well documented.

A six-month suspension followed, pushing his May bout to September, and leading to claims of foul play from Golovkin's camp. For his part, Alvarez espoused moving forward with an abundance of caution when it came to what he put in his body.

"After what happened to me, I've been very careful," Canelo told ESPN then. "Really, too cautious, I think, [to the point] of not eating meat."

3:36

Learn about the history and usage of Clenbuterol in cattle and the effects it can have on professional athletes.

When they finally clashed for their rematch on Sept. 15, Golovkin and Canelo staged The Ring magazine's Fight of the Year for 2018, with Alvarez narrowly coming out on top on two of the scorecards. The outcome did little to quell the debate over which fighter was better, as the controversy behind the draw in the first fight, coupled with Alvarez's previous doping suspension, created plenty of fodder.

Under the shadow of their third fight -- and as Canelo reels from the circumstances surrounding his second pro loss -- Golovkin continues to raise the issue, suggesting Alvarez's success might have less to do with diet and more with seeking unfair advantages.

"There are lab results," Golovkin told The Orange County Register in August. "And when asked, I said, 'Yes, I believe that he cheated.' And if somebody in his team didn't like my words, I believe it's their problem."

Alvarez will enter the ring at a dangerously unique point in his storied career. Coming off a loss for only the second time, he will stand opposite a man he has yet to beat convincingly -- whether in the scorecards or in the court of public opinion. Though Golovkin, who turned 40 in April, is likely in the latter stages of his career, a loss or even an unconvincing win will place detractors front and center.

Furthermore, Alvarez's flirtation with veganism will do little to subdue the debate as to whether a championship-level athlete in the most brutal of combat sports can thrive solely on a plant-based diet. Somoya is no longer advising Alvarez and has gone to work with another Mexican fighter, heavyweight Andy Ruiz.

"Someday, you'll have a fighter on [Alvarez's] level who wins championships and is on a vegan diet," Gonzalez said. "But that person will have likely been on the diet for years -- not just a few weeks."

Link:
Why Canelo Alvarez moved on from a dalliance with a vegan diet after his recent loss - ESPN

There are three main differences between Diet Coke and Coke Zero: flavor, amount of caffeine, and type of sugar replacements, according to MedicineNet.While both Diet Coke and Coke Zero do not contain sugar or calories, they each have their unique taste. Coke Zero tastes similar to the original Coca-Cola because they share the same flavor bases, while Diet Coke uses different flavors.

The amount of caffeine also differs between the two with Diet Coke containing more. According to Caffeine Content Hub, Diet Coke has 46 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can, compared to Coke Zero's 34 mg per 12-ounce can. The latter is the same amount as Coca-Cola Classic, which has 34 mg per 12-ounce can, but the classic version also has 39 grams of sugar. To sweeten Diet Coke,The Coca-Cola Companyuses artificial sweetener aspartame. Coke Zero is also sweetened with aspartame, as well as acesulfame potassium (Ace-K).Medical News Today describes that Ace-K is often used in conjunction with other sweeteners, like aspartame, in order to give the beverage or food item a less-bitter aftertaste.

Based on the contents of Diet Coke and Coke Zero, MedicineNet contends that neither soda is a better pick for health reasons. So, ultimately it comes down to personal preference, but if you are looking to lose weight or have diabetes and want to drink soda, MedicineNet recommends to simply go with a sugar-free can of soda.

Link:
Coke Zero Vs Diet Coke: Is There A Nutritional Difference? - Tasting Table