Category Archives: Diet And Food

As the year comes to an end and the holiday indulgences just keep on coming (d*mn you, office cookie parties!), you may already be considering a weight-loss plan to try out for the New Year. One that's been around for years and likely isn't going anywhere? Cutting carbs. And then there's keto, the ber-popular, high-fat extension of that. But if you're considering slashing those delicious carbohydrates at all, you might be wondering: What exactly makes keto different from low-carb diets in general? And really, who would win in a low-carb vs. keto face-off?

Let's start with some background. The ketogenic diet was created in the 1920s to treat children with seizure disorders for whom medication was no longer working. Research had shown that being in the state of ketosismeaning the body is using fat for fuel instead of its natural and preferred source, glucosereduced the frequency of seizures. The fat-burning benefit obviously gave this diet its now mass appeal.

Low-carb diets, on the other hand, have also been around for decades, but in various forms. Remember the Atkins and South Beach diets, which gained popularity in the early 2000s? Both prime examples of diet based on minimizing carb intake, especially simple and refined carbs (white bread, pasta, cake...you know, the good stuff).

Even though people often confuse keto with the more generic term "low-carb," according to Brigitte Zeitlin, a registered dietitian and owner of BZ Nutrition in New York City, they're actually quite different.

First and foremost, keto is a much more restrictive diet, says Zeitlin. While keto is indeed a low-carb diet, not all low-carb diets are keto.

The keto diet has a pretty strict structure, where the person is to consume 70 percent of their daily calories from fat, 20 percent from protein, and 10 percent from carbohydrates. Ten percent of anything, especially carbs, is really not a lot. And some people even take it further, to a 70-percent fat, 25-percent protein, 5-percent carbs breakdown.

Going low-carb, on the other hand, is a bit up to interpretation: What you consider low-carb might mean cutting out every kind of grain or sugar, while to others, it may include eating a piece of fruit or a serving of quinoa. It's all very relative.

With a general low-carb diet, you're probably (and hopefully) not eating nearly as much fat as you would if you were trying to force your body into ketosis. Instead, you're loading up on more lean proteins and veggies to stay full and energized.

Great Q. While the answer isn't totally black and white, Zeitlin says that for most healthy people, if you're trying to lose weight, a low-carb diet would be the better fit because it doesn't aim to put your body into an unnatural state (ahem, ketosis). Instead, by cutting back on foods that are high in sugar and starches, you're able to drop weight and still maintain a healthy form of energy for your brain and body to run on.

Typically, a low-carb diet focuses on protein and non-starchy vegetables, and limits grains, fruits, breads, sweets, and starchy veggies..."

Typically, a low-carb diet focuses on protein and non-starchy vegetables, and limits grains, fruits, breads, sweets, and starchy veggies like legumes, potatoes and peas, Zeitlin explains. Protein and veggies are extremely helpful in aidingand maintaining weight lossshe continues. Plus, a general low-carb diet can be more sustainable in the long run, since it requires way less macro counting (read: obsessing over hitting that 70/20/10 ratio).

To each their own! But if you're interested in trying out the keto diet, just keep in mind that it generally comes with more side effects than a normal low-carb eating plan.

Short-term effects of the keto diet can include keto breath, keto flu, (flu-like symptoms brought on by the body adapting to this very low-carb diet), or fatigue.

Long-term effects can include constipation, diarrhea, lack of energy, iron deficiency, vomiting, and kidney stones. Not to mention, eating such a high-fat diet like keto can also contribute to high triglyceride levels, which increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as high cholesterol. Lastly, going keto can also contribute to a weakened immune system (since carbs help boost immunity) and chronic inflammation, says Zeitlin.

It's also worth noting that keto's strict carb limits often means drastically cutting your vegetable intake, since many veggies have at least some amount of carbs. That could mean you miss out on important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help your body function at its best. You'll also likely consume less fiber, which has been shown to prevent heart disease, diabetes, and promote and sustain weight loss.

When evaluating restrictive diets, you want to really look at the food groups they are removing and research the downsides of eliminating those vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, says Zeitlin. Any diet that is restricting your plant-based food intake should give you pause to do more research.

All that said, if you try the keto diet and it works for you, do you, Zeitlin says. But if you are someone who is debating which fad diet to try for weight loss, I recommend trying a lower-carb diet that's not as restrictive.

Curious about who the keto diet works for? Apparently, these celebs, to name a few...

Definitely! To successfully maintain weight loss from either (or any) diet, Zeitlin advises focusing on doubling your veggies, eating lean proteins (fish, eggs, chicken, turkey, shellfish, lentils, tofu), healthy fats (nuts, seeds, avocado, olive oil), fresh fruit, and whole grains. That is what is going to help the weight come off and stay off, she says.

At the end of the day, you want to create a diet for yourself that feels comfortable for you to commit to for the long-term, so you don't gain and lose, gain and losecalled weight cyclingand feel like you are constantly dieting. The first can invite health problems (like insulin resistance); the latter is, well, not fun (or all that healthy, mentally speaking).

Remember, your ultimate goal beyond the weight loss is to become healthier. So don't fall into a diet trap that sabotages the real purpose for your journey. You're better than that, my friend.

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Low-Carb Vs. Keto Diet - What's The Difference And Which Is Better? - Women's Health

Focusing on only or most foods from plant sources, a plant-based diet has enormous benefits for both human health as well as the environment. Among the numerous arguments about an ideal diet, most health and wellness experts agree that diets that emphasize fresh and whole ingredients are great for overall health. And a plant-based diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes, excluding refined foods, animal products, and processed foods does just that.

Heres a list of the important health benefits of consuming a plant-based diet:

1. Promotes Weight Loss- Obesity being one of the leading cause of several alarming health conditions, making dietary changes like consuming a plant-based diet can facilitate weight loss. The high fiber content alongside the exclusion of processed foods makes it an ideal weight-loss diet. A recent study has reported that plant-based diets help reduce body fat by improving gut microbiota, increasing insulin sensitivity, and reducing caloric density.

2. Improves Heart Health- Plant-based diets are heart-healthy which reducesthe risk of stroke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. A 2019 study has reported that middle-aged individuals who consumed this diet had a reduced risk of heart diseases and all-cause mortality.

3. Prevents Diabetes- With the ever-increasing prevalence of diabetes throughout the world, lifestyle modifications like plant-based diets are some effective tools to prevent and manage the condition. A 2017 study has emphasized that consuming a plant-based diet improves insulin resistance by promoting healthy body weight, increasing fiber, phytonutrients, and food-microbiome interactions.

4. Prevents Chronic Kidney Disease- Low-protein diets like plant-based diets have been widely sought-after for the prevention and management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and to prevent dialysis therapy. A new study has reported that physicians and nephrologists should recommend the diet to their patients to prevent and manage CKD.

5. Reduces Cancer Risk- Cancer is the leading cause of deaths worldwide and dietary factors account for about 30% of all cancer. Several studies have reported that consuming a plant-based diet reduces the risk of some kinds of cancer. A 2012 study has reported that people who consumed plant-baseddiets had a reduced risk of all cancers, especially gastrointestinal cancers compared to those who consumed meat.

5 reasons why you must consider a plant-based diet Photo: Veganliftz, Pixabay

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5 Reasons Why A Plant-Based Diet Is Great For Your Health - International Business Times

Jenna Jameson revealed that shes gained back almost a quarter of the post-baby weight she lost on the ketogenic diet.

Confession. Ive gained 20 pounds. Ugh, the former adult film star, 45, captioned an Instagram photo that showed her sitting on a bar stoll and wearing a Jewnicorn Chanukah sweater. I decided to take a break from #keto and live my best carby life. The weight came back fast and furious.

I know a lot of people are quitting keto because its hard to maintain and after a year and a half I concur. Not sure if Im going to go back full force or just calorie count, Jameson, who lost 85 pounds on the low-carb diet, concluded as she asked her followers for their thoughts.

When one fan suggested that she try a plant-based vegan diet, the Hawaii-based star replied, Id rather eat a ground glass diet along with a smiley-face emoji.

After she responded to another follower and said she now weighed 140 lbs, a fan wrote, You look amazing. Why worry about the number? Youre beautiful. Youre an amazing Mom. An incredible wife. Smart business woman. Youve got it all and its wonderful.

As long as youre happy and feeling healthy, thats all that matters! another added.

Jameson embarked on her weight-loss plan after welcoming daughter Batel with fianc Lior Bitton in April 2017 and posted dramatic before and after photos as she shared the diet tricks and tips that helped her to slim down on the keto diet. By November 2018, she had lost 80 pounds and weighed in at 107 pounds.

After briefly stopping intermittent fasting, she revealed in July that she was back on the bandwagon, pairing the method, where you consume all of your daily calories in an eight-hour period, with the high-protein, low-carb keto diet. Ive noticed a flatter tummy and together skin, not to mention better concentration, she told her Instagram followers after resuming her routine.

In September, Jameson, who has 10-year-old twin sons Jesse and Journey with her ex MMA fighter Tito Ortiz, revealed that she was four years sober after a long struggle with addiction.

4 years. We do recover. We do overcome. We do rebuild. But we never forget, the New York Times bestselling author wrote on Instagram. We still have scars. They fade. The sun begins to shine and close out the shadows. Trust returns.

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Jenna Jameson Reveals Shes Gained 20 Lbs After Quitting Keto Diet - Us Weekly

Does your holiday dessert consumption put you on your personal trainers naughty list? Dont banish those visions of sugar plumsjust make a smart choice about where you satiate the craving. Several local bakeries and restaurants offer sumptuous dessert selections that adhere to dietary restrictions. Here are three of our favorites.

Joey Weiss gluten-free journey began when her husband was diagnosed with celiac disease 18 years ago. In that time, shes perfected her gluten-free baking techniques, resulting in delicious favorites like pumpkin pie ($39), which is also free of dairy and low in carbs, and her vegan pecan pie ($64). Normally pecan pie has a gooey filling, but our version is filled with ground pecan mix with organic golden flaxseed meal, says Weiss.

This eatery is known for its high-quality, certified-organic, plant-based foodand the desserts are no exception. The lemon-vanilla cheesecake ($100) is made from almonds, cashews, coconut, cinnamon, maple syrup, lime, lemon, and vanilla, and comes topped with fruit upon request. The pumpkin pie ($100) is a delectable mix of walnuts, dates, pumpkin pie spice, cashews, coconut, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

As a revered vegetarian go-to, Darbster has gained a reputation for reinterpreting classic dishes with a plant-based mindset. The restaurants desserts are legendary, and its gluten-free key lime pie ($95) is one of the best in the county. Its packed with protein and made using ingredients such as tofu cream cheese, unprocessed cane sugar, fresh key limes, oats, and organic walnuts.

Read more here:
Three Holiday Desserts That Won't Wreck Your Diet - Palm Beach

New research suggests that the popular keto diet may help ward off influenza infection.

The study from Yale University, published November 15 in the journal Science Immunology, discovered that mice fed a ketogenic diet (low in carbohydrates but high in fat with moderate protein) were better able to fight off the flu compared with mice given foods that were high in carbs.

This study shows that the way the body burns fat to produce ketone bodies from the food we eat can fuel the immune system to fight flu infection, said the co-senior author Vishwa Deep Dixit, PhD, a doctor of veterinary medicine and a professor of comparative medicine and immunology at Yale, in New Haven, Connecticut, in a statement.

A ketogenic eating plan helps people shed pounds by drastically limiting the intake of carbohydrates (such as breads, pastas, and sweets), while increasing the consumption of meats, dairy, fats, and nonstarchy vegetables.

The diet puts the body into a metabolic state called ketosis, in which the liver breaks down fat into an energy source called ketones, which fuel the body in the absence of glucose.

This type of eating plan has been shown to help maintain blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. There is also some evidence, such as a study in Federal Practitioner from February 2017, that a keto diet may improve tumor response in cancer patients.

Another study, out of the University of California in Davis in 2017, found that mice on a high-fat diet had a 13 percent longer life span compared with mice on a high-carb diet.

In the latest study, Dr. Dixit and his collaborators observed that the ketogenic diet blocked the formation of inflammasomes, which are immune system activators that can cause harmful immune system responses.

Seeing this response, the scientists set out to test how the diet might affect the flu virus.

The researchers fed a group of mice infected with influenza a keto diet containing less than 1 percent carbs. Another group of infected mice received a standard diet with 58 percent carbs.

The ketogenic diet spurred the release of gamma delta T cells, immune system cells that produce mucus in the cell linings of the lung; but the high-carbohydrate diet did not. An increase in mucus helps capture and eliminate the flu virus from the system, according to researchers.

The researchers also found that the keto diet provided no protection against the influenza virus in mice specially bred without these gamma delta T cells. This confirmed that these cells play a critical role in warding off flu.

We have no idea yet why the gamma delta T cells appear to become activated by the keto diet. This is something well be pursuing in the future, says Emily Goldberg, PhD, a postdoctoral associate at the Yale School of Medicine who collaborated on the research.

A high-carb diet tends to stimulate inflammatory markers which inhibit immune function, says Jan Rystrom, RD, a certified diabetes educator at the Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, who was not involved in the Yale study. This could be the mechanism that the low-carb diet addresses.

On the other hand, some dietitians and medical experts believe that a low-carb diet can compromise the immune system. A lack of carbs may lead to a lack of energy and weaken a persons health overall. There is also evidence that a keto diet can be harmful to the gut microbiome, which is essential to overall well-being.

Rystrom points out that keto diets can have a lot of variation, and ones that are more plant-forward are likely to promote a healthier gut microbiota.

Generally speaking, it is true that the immune system should require increased glucose utilization to mount an effective immune response against infection, says Dr. Goldberg. Its important to keep in mind that there is still glucose availability, albeit very limited, even during a keto diet.

Although Rystrom suggests that the Yale study supports the anti-inflammatory effect of nutritional ketosis, she adds that a keto diet certainly would not be a first line treatment [for flu].

William Schaffner, MD, an infectious-disease specialist at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, has not seen significant data connecting diet with flu protection.

Its a very intriguing study, says Dr. Schaffner. If we can learn more about how the body fights flu, we can get smarter about how to treat influenza and perhaps prevent it.

He notes that there is some evidence that obesity may lead to a weaker response to flu vaccine, so that may be an indication of how diet could affect flu protection.

Research is needed in humans, however, to validate that the keto diet can effectively protect against the flu.

People are not the same as mice. Thirty thousand to 40,000 people die in the United States each year from influenza, says Len Horovitz, MD, a pulmonary specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Theres no substitute for protection better than a flu shot!

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Can the Keto Diet Help Fight the Flu? - Everyday Health

Alison Hammond is an English showbiz presenter who appears on the daytime TV show, This Morning. The bubbly host shot to fame after appearing on the third series of Big Brother and has since taken part on shows including Im a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! and Strictly Come Dancing. Alison has recently slimmed down - did she follow a diet plan?

This week, Alison has been giving This Morning viewers all the latest news from Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!.

In a recent post, she shared a snap of her on the set of the This Morning showing off her new slim frame.

The presenter looked trim in a black and white outfit and fans were quick to praise her weight loss.

One wrote: You are an inspiration I can see the results of WW.

READ MORE: Weight loss: One woman lost a remarkable six stone with this plan - what did she eat?

Looking good WW suiting u, another fan added.

In April this year, Alison was announced as an ambassador for Weight Watchers, now WW, and embarked on a fitness journey.

By using the programme, she changed her diet plan and exercise routine which helped her start to slim down.

Speaking of the company, she said: My WW journey is focused on getting healthier for myself. I feel rubbish when I dont eat properly or exercise and WW helps me with what I eat and do.

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"I want my journey to empower others to think about making changes to their lifestyle to become the best version of themselves."

The presenter will often share clips of her working out in the gym as part of her new healthy lifestyle.

In the clips, it appears Alison likes to stay trim by focusing on weight exercises with her personal trainer.

She wrote: Train with Ali. Trainers and clients who train together stay together. Smashing it.

A similar post was captioned: Come train with me and @ellisgatfield , are you ready babes ?

Lets do this . Trainer and client who train together stay together !! #fitness #wellbeing

Alison has struggled with her weight over the years and previously opened up about dieting.

In 2016, she told Bella magazine: Its the one thing in my life that I feel like I cant achieve. When you get really big like me, you dont see any light at the end of the tunnel.

I need to do it in small stages. If I just try and live healthily and drink lots of water, the weight loss will come.

If I lose one or two stone, its not going to be obvious to anybody, but Ill feel better in myself.

Those who follow the WW plan focus on creating healthy habits including weight loss, maintenance, fitness and mindset.

Since joining the programme, fans have been able to see the showbiz host has slimmed down with diet and exercise.

She will regularly share pictures of her working out online showing she has kept up the gym workouts.

See more here:
Alison Hammond weight loss: How did she slim down? This Morning star followed this plan - Express

Want to look and feel your best? Follow these five tips

Odds are, most people dont associate the Holiday Season with health and fitness. After all, the weather is cold, the food is high in calories, and mid-afternoon naps are on the agenda for most people. Yet, the reality is, if you want to achieve your perfect beach body in June, you have to start working toward that goal in December. With that in mind, today were going to share five amazing tips that will help you look and feel your absolute best. Check them out here:

Tan safely

Plain and simple, tanning beds can be dangerous. They can increase the chances of developing skin cancers. The good news is, you can still get a healthy, vibrant skin tone through natural methods. Just make sure to 1) always use sunscreen, 2) get plenty of shade, and 3) monitor your tanning time closely. Its always better to be safe than sorry with your health.

Get plenty of sleep

Thankfully, you dont have to be a fitness junkie to get plenty of sleep. Still, people who get a solid eight hours every night are generally more productive, healthy, and happy than people who struggle to get a good nights sleep.

Exercise and diversify

As most people can attest, exercise can truly feel like a grind some days. In order to combat workout malaise, make it a point to switch up your exercise routine from time to time. Not only is this a great way to stay fresh, but youll also be able to focus on different body parts as well. Also, develop a schedule that allows you to have plenty of rest and off days too. You dont want to experience workout burnout.

Diet responsibly

Achieving a balanced, healthy diet isnt easy. At the end of the day, though, you shouldnt feel miserable as a result of your diet. Denying yourself your favorite foods and drinks might produce short-term results, but youll struggle to keep up that pace over the long haul. As such, experiment with your diet until you find one that suits your preferences perfectly.

Talk to your doctor

Unfortunately, many people are reticent to visit medical professionals. However, physicians and psychologists can offer meaningful health advice and help you live a healthier and happier life. So dont hesitate to visit testing clinics or medical facilities near you.

Conclusion

The key to looking and feeling your best is to participate in activities that make you feel energised and happy. Of course, fitting those activities into your schedule is easier said than done. Nevertheless, prioritising your health and happiness is a great decision.

The editorial unit

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Want to look and feel your best? Follow these five tips - The Upcoming

Although dehydrated foods are nothing new, particularly for campers, it seems more and more chefs are using those ingredients, from kimchi powder to tomato-skin chips.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Are dehydrated ingredients the next big thing in cooking?

Dennis Laycock: Seems like an unnecessary step on the path to good food.

Abby Armbruster: I never understood the hype around dehydrating things. Hard pass from me.

Lee Cochran: They could be, but I don't use them.

Neil Thompson: I don't know anyone who is doing this, so I have to answer no.

Scott Hummel: They were the next big thing literally 400 years ago.

Lisa Proctor: I say no. More people are into using things that are fresh, right away.

Nate Ellis: No. Not unless camping without sufficient means to cool or otherwise maintain your ingredients becomes massively popular. Or, if people decide it's just too expensive or wasteful to have refrigerators similar to the cut the cord movement in television.

Chris Pugh: I hope not.

Sarah Sole: Once I start cooking, I'll get back to you on this.

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In some cultures, fried fish skin is like potato chips crispy and full of flavor, finding its way into dishes such as rice bowls and sushi rolls or eaten on its own.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Would you try fried salmon skin?

Scott Hummel: Yes, but when I fry salmon, my dogs look forward to sharing the skin.

Nate Ellis: Yes.

Sarah Sole: I would not.

Lisa Proctor: Not a fan of skin as a food.

Dennis Laycock: I would, I have and it's delicious.

Abby Armbruster: As the resident vegetarian here, I have to say nope.

Neil Thompson: Sure. Sounds like it would be crispy and salty, with a fun texture.

Chris Pugh: I make it a point not to eat anything with skin.

Lee Cochran: I never have before, but I won't say I never will.

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It seems any milk not made of dairy is all the rage these days. One version getting a lot of attention lately is oat milk, made by soaking oats in water, blended and strained.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Any thoughts on oat milk?

Scott Hummel: I've tried it. Not a fan. My wife, who usually likes that kind of thing, doesn't like it either.

Nate Ellis: Nope. Not one.

Sarah Sole: I'd try it.

Lisa Proctor: I have no idea how oats and milk go together, aside from pouring milk on oatmeal.

Dennis Laycock: I rarely use milk at all in any form, so I'd rather go without than use any of the various substitutes.

Abbey Armbruster: I've tried oat-milk lattes, and they're good, although I won't use it over almond milk or cow's milk as my main dairy source.

Neil Thompson:It's probably not as good as the bovine version.

Chris Pugh: Leave oats out of milk

Lee Cochran: I've never tried it; just regular skim or 1 percent for me.

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Burritos once enjoyed a significant period as the go-to casual dish in the U.S., a counterpoint to the common burger. Now burritos have serious competition from the equally modest taco.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Are tacos more popular than burritos?

Scott Hummel: Not a chance, hermano.

Nate Ellis: Yes.

Sarah Sole: Heck yes. My favorite food.

Lisa Proctor: I tend to choose tacos over burritos, but I am probably the odd one.

Dennis Laycock: If not, they should be.

Abby Armbruster: How often do you find restaurants that specialize in burritos compared to the ever-popular "taco bar?" To make a long story short, my answer is yes.

Neil Thompson: Yes. Why? Probably because they are easier to eat.

Chris Pugh: They both are equally great.

Lee Cochran: A big divide in our house. I eat tacos; my wife eats burritos.

Za'atar is a zesty Middle Eastern spice mix that can be used as a marinade for meats or mixed with olive oil and spread on bread or toast.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Is zaatar underrated?

Scott Hummel: I've never heard of it, so it just might be.

Nate Ellis: No. But thanks to the genius of Herbie Hancock, I can say that keytar is.

Sarah Sole: I have no idea what that is.

Lisa Proctor: What is it?

Dennis Laycock: No, I want to see za'atar-flavored chips.

Abby Armbruster: I think it's overrated, to be honest. There are other Mediterranean and Middle Eastern sauces and spices I'd rather cook with first.

Neil Thompson: Since I didn't know what it was until now, I suppose it could be considered underrated.

Chris Pugh: Anything that aids memory is a good thing.

Lee Cochran: Since I've never heard of it, probably so.

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Some entrepreneurs have tried using the restaurant pop-up concept either joining an existing kitchen or signing a short-term lease to test out the popularity of their brand.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: What restaurant pop-up would you like to see?

Scott Hummel: It depends on the time of year. In winter, something seafood. In summer, not so much.

Nate Ellis: Marion's Pizza.

Sarah Sole: A Momo Ghar near me.

Lisa Proctor: A reincarnation of the Florentine that used to be on Broad Street. I miss the fettuccine.

Dennis Laycock: A "coffee" stand that sells hot cups of Asian broths pho, miso, etc. for those cold winter mornings.

Abby Armbruster: A few months ago, there was talk of a sushi pop-up coming to Columbus... I eagerly wait for its arrival.

Neil Thompson: I'd love to see a restaurant here that specializes in lake fish like yellow perch.

Chris Pugh: Anything waffle related

Lee Cochran: Anything that would be a little different.

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Good sourdough bread made with starter is the stuff of legends. Crusty outside and pillowy-soft and slightly tart inside, sourdough is good with just about anything, from butter to soups.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Will sourdough make a rampant return?

Scott Hummel: I hope so. Oh, how I hope so.

Nate Ellis: No.

Sarah Sole: Hope so.

Lisa Proctor: I'd like to see it rise in popularity but I think several people are into breadsticks right now.

Dennis Laycock: According to Cracker Barrel, it never went anywhere.

Abby Armbruster: Sourdough never left. Lucky Cat makes an excellent sourdough loaf which can be found in grocery stores around central Ohio.

Neil Thompson: I think sourdough already holds a strong position in American dining culture.

Chris Pugh: It's already made a rampant return in my life.

Lee Cochran: It never left in my opinion; love sourdough toast with my over-easy eggs.

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Veggie burgers are nothing new but the new wave of plant-based impossible burgers are said to taste like meat.

ThisWeek staffers answer the question: Are plant-based burgers the next big thing?

Scott Hummel: It's certainly taking root. Who knows how long that fad will last?

Nate Ellis: No.

Sarah Sole: I think they have been pretty popular already.

Lisa Proctor: I have a beef with this whole plant-based burger trend. Just serve the vegetables in the regular way - spoon them onto the plate. Don't turn them into patties.

Dennis Laycock: I hope not. I feel like vegetarian food is best when it relies on its own flavors and doesn't try to emulate meat.

Abby Armbruster: They've already been the "next big thing" as of a few years ago. For this vegetarian, it makes me happy to know that, by now, most restaurants have a veggie burger on the menu.

Neil Thompson: I think they absolutely are a huge trend right now. But I'll stick with the classic options of beef or bison patties.

Chris Pugh: Not in my house.

Lee Cochran: Seem to be, but I'm not interested.

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Savory smoothies have become a staple for those who try to get more vegetables in their diet. But others take pause, concerned about the flavor.

ThisWeek News staffers answer the question: Would you drink a vegetable smoothie?

Scott Hummel: Oh, yeah. I actually drink at least one a week that has spinach in it. Celery is a strong flavor, though, so keep it to a minimum.

Nate Ellis: I'd probably sip one.

Sarah Sole: Sure thing, if it came with plenty of fruit ingredients as well.

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Staff Q&A: Are dehydrated ingredients the next big thing in cooking? - ThisWeek Community News

This article, written byLangis Michaud, Universit de Montral, originally appeared on The Conversation and has been republished here with permission:

Monique is 77 years old. I met her when she came to the eye clinic at the University of Montral, where I am a professor. A retired teacher, Monique has enjoyed an active and full life with her students and family and considers herself lucky to be in good health.

She is concerned, however, about a recent visual loss that prevents her from reading and enjoying her painting workshops. It also prevents her from driving safely, which is important if she wants to maintain her independence.

A complete examination of Moniques vision and eye health quickly revealed the cause of her problems: she has developed cataracts and her retina shows early signs of macular degeneration.

Cataracts are a normal phenomenon, resulting from the aging process of the eye and affecting everyone, without exception. They occur when the lens of the eye gradually loses its transparency, like a window that gets dirty with the seasons.

The light that enters the eye passes through opaque areas and generates blurred vision, without the possibility of improving it with glasses, lenses or magnifiers. Only surgery can restore the clarity of the eye.

The aging of the crystalline lens

The crystalline lens is particular and its metabolism is very fragile. When disturbed, the lens accumulates deposits and loses its transparency. This lens also absorbs a large part of the suns ultraviolet rays to protect the retina at the back of the eye.

The amount of UV absorbed accumulates over the years, contributing to the premature aging of the lens. That is why it is recommended to protect yourself with sun lenses from an early age.

Other factors that disrupt its functioning include the use of certain medications such as oral cortisone, the presence of diseases such as diabetes or a shock to the head, which can contribute to the arrival and progression of cataracts. Very rarely, cataracts are transmitted during pregnancy, especially following infections such as rubella, toxoplasmosis and herpes.

Finally, very strong links have been established between smoking and cataracts. Food, on the other hand, does not seem to have an impact. Quitting smoking and protecting your eyes with good sunglasses are therefore considered effective ways to delay the onset and progression of cataracts.

Implants to the rescue

Cataract treatment is quite simple. The ophthalmologist will perform surgery to exchange the natural lens of the eye with a new lens, called an implant. This surgery is very safe and can be performed at any time during cataract development, although surgery will usually only be offered if there is a significant impact on the patients vision and quality of life.

Implants are permanent and remain clear for life, without the need for replacement. They can be used to correct distance vision, including astigmatism, which would be accomplished through the use of a specially designed toric implant. Also, nearsightedness can be fixed via bifocal or multifocal implants, thus avoiding the need for glasses later on, in most cases.

However, the patient may be subject to seeing halos and may be more sensitive to light. It is also necessary to ensure that the retina is in good health, otherwise the final result will not be very good.

This is particularly the case for Monique, who also has the onset of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This is a phenomenon affecting one per cent of people exceeding 40 years of age, but whose prevalence reaches 30 per cent at 80 years of age.

The at-risk population is composed of Caucasians (those of European origin) and women more than men. Systemic diseases everything that affects blood vessels such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity are important risk factors, as are oxidative causes such as smoking, high saturated fat nutrition and UV exposure.

Prevent macular degeneration

Essentially, the best retinal cells, which allow good vision (macular area), degrade over time if not well nourished by the vascular network and accumulate deposits that prevent their normal functioning.

These deposits become visible as small yellow spots at the fundus the part of the eyeball opposite the pupil. These deposits, known as drusen, can become confluent. The degradation of cells is accompanied by a change in their colouring (pigment reworking), a phenomenon that is also visible when the retina is examined. This is called dry macular degeneration. Vision is more or less affected depending on the number of affected cells.

Over time, the systems response can lead to the formation of new blood vessels to supply dying cells. These are fragile and have no real place to stay. They can easily burst. Their membrane formation, like roots invading a pipe, and their flow (bleeding) contribute to a very severe reduction in vision. This is when we speak of wet degeneration. This more severe form affects 10 per cent of AMD cases, but anyone with the dry form can progress at this stage.

Nutritional supplements

AMD treatments are limited and aim to limit the progression of the disease. They cannot cure it. Quitting smoking, good nutrition, regular exercise and following the doctors recommendations in the control of vascular diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, can delay the progression of the dry form of AMD.

Wearing sunglasses also helps, even on cloudy days. Taking omega 3 at the right dosage and fish oil extracts may help although more recent results have called this strategy into question.

In more advanced stages of the dry form, taking oral nutritional supplements including vitamins and antioxidants are recommended, except in some patients with a particular genetic profile.

The wet form has recently been effectively treated by injecting drugs directly into the eye, to prevent the formation of new blood vessels. These injections must be repeated periodically and restore vision when the procedure is performed at the appropriate time.

Moniques case is a mixed one. On the one hand, it is possible to greatly improve her short-term vision with cataract surgery, for which she will be referred to ophthalmology. Implants protect against UV rays, another factor in preventing the progression of macular degeneration. This will allow her to drive safely and resume her activities. She will also monitor her diet, which she admits is deficient, and take omega supplements. Her AMD is at a stage that is too early for vitamins or antioxidants.

Monique does not smoke and is not taking medication for vascular problems. If she does one day, she will follow her doctors recommendations and begin a light exercise program. Walking may be enough. Finally, she will be followed every six months in an optometry office, will perform simple home screening tests and will come in for a consultation as soon as a change is noted.

Monique is reassured! She will be able to remain active and independent to enjoy the good times of life.

Langis Michaud, Professeur Titulaire. cole d'optomtrie. Expertise en sant oculaire et usage des lentilles cornennes spcialises, Universit de Montral

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

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BEYOND LOCAL: Age-related eye problems and how to treat them - NewmarketToday.ca

Action on the climate crisis has become central to the 2019 election campaign, with all major parties vastly expanding the scope of their ambition to protect the environment.

Theres been a bidding war on tree planting numbers, with 2 billion, 700 million, 60m and 30m trees pledged by Labour, the Greens, Lib Dems and Tories respectively.

There was the pledge to end fracking until there is evidence it can be done safely by the Conservatives, bowing down to years of fierce environmentalist pressure.

And perhaps most dramatically, there was a no-show by party leaders Boris Johnson and Nigel Farage at Channel 4s Climate Debate, with the pair instead replaced by melting ice sculptures.

The tone of the campaign reflects public pressure for government to act on the environment with intensity never before seen in UK politics. A YouGov poll at the beginning of the election period listed climate change as the fourth most important issue, with 25 per cent of Brits placing it in one of their top three, up from the eight per cent recorded at the same point in the 2017 election.

Eating habits have themselves become part of the climate debate, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) calling for people to buy less meat, milk, cheese and butter and eat more locally-sourced seasonal food.

The general election takes place on Thursday 12 December. Image Flickr/Michael D Beckwith.

Due to the close connection between food, farming and the climate, these policies are interlinked, as well as being important in their own right, covering farm subsidies, support for agroecological farming, food security, and local food economies.

On food, farming and the environment, the top four parties are, however, promising very different agendas and timetables. Here is a round up of their headline manifesto pledges on all three areas:

Conservative:

Read the full Conservative manifesto here.

Labour:

Labours full manifesto can be found here.

Liberal Democrats:

Read the full Lib Dem manifesto here.

Green Party:

Read the full Green Party manifesto here.

Link:
Election pledges: Food, farming and climate - Wicked Leeks