Iowa is still experiencing high levels of COVID-19 transmission, even with vaccine rollout underway.

DES MOINES, Iowa Some folks in central Iowa are starting to travel and go out like they did before the COVID-19 pandemic changed everything, and doctors are warning activities like this could cause more harm than good if not done safely.

MercyOne Des Moines infectious disease expert Dr. Ravi Vemuri said Iowans shouldn't start celebrating the end of COVID until 70% of the population is vaccinated and community transmission is low.

Community spread of the virus is still high in Iowa, according to Vemuri.

However, Dr. Vemuri said Iowans can travel or go out to restaurants if they are practicing safe mitigation tactics.

As long as you protect your mucus membranes, which is your eyes your nose and your mouth, and you wash your hands a lot you should be pretty safe," he said.

The American Automobile Association reported over half of Iowans are comfortable taking a trip right now. The Des Moines International Airport, also, shows an increase of people flying.

The Iowa Restaurant Association told Local 5 they've seen in uptick in people going out to eat too.

Personally, I have not been in a restaurant for over a year," said Dr. Vemuri.

He said if Iowans can eat outside that's a plus, but they still need to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidelines, even if they're fully vaccinated:

Vemuri said Iowa is getting better when it comes to virus activity, but not good enough to act like the pandemic is over.

As of Thursday, the CDC reports 25% of adults 18 and older are fully vaccinated.

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COVID isn't over: Doctor explains when it'll be safe to travel, eat out again - Local 5 - weareiowa.com

If you've read just about any medical publication, Googled any ailment, or turned on the news at any point in the last year, you're likely at least vaguely familiar with the Mayo Clinic: a nonprofit American academic medical center focused on integrated health care, education, and research. Though it sounds like one entity, the Mayo Clinic actually has campuses across the country, with a headquarters in Rochester, Minnesota. It employs around 63,000 medical professionals.

It's safe to say the people who work at the Mayo Clinic know a thing or two about health, especially as it relates to diet. In fact, the Mayo Clinic has even devised its own healthy eating regimen dubbed the Mayo Clinic Diet, which is an eating plan developed to help people lose weight and maintain a healthy weight for a lifetime.

Given its dedication to people's overall health, it's no surprise that the Mayo Clinic has also written about, and conducted research related to the foods one should avoid if they want to stay in the best shape possible.

For example, though the Mayo Clinic doesn't prohibit alcohol consumption, the organization does recommend consuming alcohol in moderation and no more than seven times per week. Scroll down to discover what other popular foods the Mayo Clinic suggests you steer clear of. Read on, and for more on how to eat healthy, don't miss 7 Healthiest Foods to Eat Right Now.

"A recent review of the research regarding red meat consumption looked at six studies that tracked more than 1.5 million people for 5.5 to 28 years," wrote Liza Torborg, of the Mayo Clinic in August 2018, citing Dr. Heather Fields. "The review found that regularly consuming processed meats is associated with increased risk of heart disease, cancerespecially colon cancerand early death. Processed meats include bacon; sausage; hot dogs; ham; deli meats; canned meats; jerky; and meat that is processed, cured, fermented, or salted. These meats tend to be high in saturated fat, sodium, and nitrates or nitrites, which are thought to be implicated in their associated risks."

The health issues associated with the consumption of fried foods such as doughnuts, mozzarella sticks and French fries are well-documented, so it's not exactly a surprise that the Mayo Clinic warns against eating them too frequently.

"Researchers have linked fried foods to type-2 diabetes and heart problems, but studies also show that eating fried foods every day can shorten your life," notes The Mayo Clinic Minute. According to Stephen Kopecky, MD, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic, our bodies just weren't made to eat the amount of fried foods that exist today. "If you have a diesel engine, you don't put gasoline in your diesel tank," he explained.

Soda is one of the most popular foods around and, according to the experts at the Mayo Clinic, it's also one of the most harmfulif consumed too often. Throwing back sugary drinks like soda can result in significant weight gain, wrinkly skin, an increase in triglycerides and more.

Frequent soda drinkers also have an increased chance of developing painful kidney stones and may develop serious heart issues. Researchers reporting in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found the health effects of drinking one or two servings a day of sugar-sweetened beverages include a 35% greater risk of heart attack or fatal heart disease, according to the Mayo Clinic News Network.

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Sure, diet soda boasts fewer calories than regular soda, but that doesn't mean the Mayo Clinic approves. In fact, the Mayo Clinic reports that while artificial sweeteners won't really raise your blood sugar levels the way traditional sweeteners do, there are other concerns people should be aware of.

One study found that women who consistently drank two or more artificially sweetened beverages a day had a higher risk of stroke than women who drank those beverages less often or not at all. "Although more research is needed, these findings point to the value of consuming artificially sweetened beverages in moderation," the Mayo Clinic concluded.

And although the Mayo Clinic acknowledged that consuming artificial sweeteners in moderation may be safe, the organization still advises opting for whole foods and drinks that are naturally sweetened over processed ones like diet soda, which contain no nutritional value.

"If you regularly drink artificially sweetened beverages as a replacement for sweetened drinks, use that as a stepping stone to drinking more plain water," the Mayo Clinic states. "Your body needs the water, and there's no question that it's good for you." To learn more, don't miss What Happens to Your Body When You Drink 8 Glasses of Water a Day.

While having up to four cups of coffee per day is fine, the Mayo Clinic advises against consuming any more than that over a 24-hour period.

According to a 2013 study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, having more than four cups of java a day can increase your risk of dying from a host of diseases if you're under the age of 55. In fact, researchers discovered that death rates from all causes rose by more than half in people who had more than 28 cups a week.

"From our study, it seems safe to drink one to three cups of coffee a day," said one of the study's co-authors, Xuemei Sui, who defines a cup of coffee as 6 to 8 ounces.

Additionally, if you have less than four cups of coffee per day but are experiencing symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, irritability, fast heartbeat, muscle tremors, nervousness, or frequent urination, the Mayo Clinic suggests you cut back. To learn more, read up on these Signs You Should Stop Drinking Coffee Immediately.

You may think you're doing yourself a favor by sipping on some fruit juice or a glass of sweetened iced tea instead of ordering an alcoholic beverage or a soda, but according to the Mayo Clinic, regular consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks is a big no-no.

That's because the medical center reports that regular consumption of sugary drinks has been proven countless times to be one of the drinking habits shortening your life and linked to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Additionally, a large study published in the journal Circulation revealed that people who drink more sugar-sweetened beverages have a greater risk of premature deathespecially from heart diseasethan do those who drink fewer.

As a result, the Mayo Clinic advises enjoying drinks such as water, tea, or unsweetened iced tea instead.

When it comes to energy drinks, the Mayo Clinic doesn't even advocate consuming these in moderation. By contrast, they're viewed as unhealthy, in part because of their high sugar and caffeine content.

According to Mayo Clinic research, knocking back just one 16-ounce energy drink can significantly increase your blood pressure as well as stress hormone responses. Additionally, previous studies have indicated that energy drinks are particularly harmful when you mix them with alcohol.

"In previous research, we found that energy drink consumption increased blood pressure in healthy young adults," noted Mayo Clinic study co-author Dr. Anna Svatikova. "We now show that the increases in blood pressure are accompanied by increases in norepinephrine, a stress hormone chemical, and this could predispose an increased risk of cardiac events even in healthy people."

Instead of reaching for one of those sugar-laden energy drinks, the organization suggests trying to get quality sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and increasing physical activity to naturally boost your energy levels.

RELATED:12 Dangerous Side Effects of Energy Drinks, According to Science

The Mayo Clinic has no issue with people enjoying the occasional drink (phew!) but the organization cautions against drinking too much both in one sitting and over time.

Per the Mayo Clinic, high-risk drinking is defined as more than three drinks in one day or more than seven drinks in a week for women. For men over the age of 65, it's just one drink per day, and for men under the age of 65, it's more than four drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks a week.

"Occasional beer or wine with dinner, or a drink in the evening, is not a health problem for most people," explained Mayo Clinic doctor Terry Schneekloth, MD, in a Q&A. "When drinking becomes a daily activity, though, it may represent the progression of your consumption and place you at increased health risks. Alcohol can damage your body's organs and lead to various health concerns. For women, this damage happens with lower doses of alcohol, because their bodies have lower water content than men. That's why the moderate drinking guidelines for women and men are so different."

Given that intel, the Mayo Clinic advises drinking in moderation. As a general rule, that means no more than one drink a day for women, or two a day for menwhich translates to roughly 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor.

Sorry ranch dressing fans, the Mayo Clinic isn't a fan of this popular condiment. That's because ranch dressing contains 320 milligrams of sodium in a two-tablespoon serving. Eating this much sodium on a regular basis could lead to heart health issues like high blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease.

Additionally, the Mayo Clinic recommends adults keep their sodium intake below 2,300 milligrams each dayand specifically mentions avoiding foods with more than 200 milligrams of sodium per serving.

Other high-sodium foods that may exceed the Mayo Clinic's per serving recommendation include canned most canned soup, cold cuts, and pretzels. To help keep your sodium intake in check, look for foods marked low-sodium.

On the surface, margarine, which contains unsaturated polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, may seem like a healthy alternative to high-calorie butter, but that's not necessarily the case.

According to the Mayo Clinic, not all margarines are created equal. "Some margarines contain trans fat, which is considered the worst type of fat you can eat. Unlike other dietary fats, trans fat raises your LDL cholesterol and also lowers your high-density lipoprotein, or HDL or 'good,' cholesterol," the organization explains. "A diet laden with trans fats also increases your risk of heart disease, as well as stroke and Type 2 diabetes." You'll have to watch out for more than just margarine to protect your heart. See: Popular Foods That May Lead to a Heart Attack, According to Science.

Excerpt from:
Popular Foods You Should Avoid, According to the Mayo Clinic | Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That

The pandemic has left many people feeling depressed and anxious, and teenagers and young adults are especially vulnerable. Eating disorders have jumped in the last year as more young people spent time on screens, according to new research from UC San Francisco.

Hospitalizations at UCSF Benioff Childrens Hospital doubled since March 2020 for eating disorders such as binging, bulimia, and compulsive exercise. The National Eating Disorders Association has also received more calls to their hotline.

Jason Nagata, M.D., is professor of pediatrics at UCSF Benioff Childrens Hospital, where he specializes in eating disorders. He says teenagers who spend more time in front of screens watching TV and texting are at a higher risk to develop binge eating disorders.

For a lot of teenagers who have been more socially isolated because they're not able to attend in-person school there has been distress and anxiety, and even depression related to that.

Nagata points out that screen time has been linked to these disorders, but its also a source of connection for youth.

The link to screen time is complex because youth have so many different forms of screens that they're exposed to now. On the one hand, there's social media, like Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok. Youth are reliant on more and more these days for socialization, especially when in-person social gatherings are not safe or not recommended, Nagata says.

He says social media platforms, such as Instagram, are image-based and might provide a distorted perception of reality through filters. He says lots of teens with eating disorders or body image issues have attributed to being on-camera during virtual learning as a trigger for their concerns.

According to Negata, binge eating is a psychological disorder thats characterized by eating an objectively large amount of food in a short period of time, and experiencing an inability to stop eating.

He says some teenagers have gained weight during the pandemic, which they call the quarantine 15, due to overeating or a more sedentary lifestyle. And its led to heightened body image concerns.

Others, including student athletes, have restricted their eating or compulsively exercised. He says thats an example of individuals trying to regain a semblance of control in their lives.

There's so much that has been lost during the pandemic like school and sports and whatever. If they can control their diet and or their exercise, it's sort of a way of gaining control over one aspect of their life.

What to look for and what to do

Nagata says red flag behaviors can include a preoccupation with appearance, weight, exercise, or food intake in a way that worsens someones quality of life.

These teenagers may start to withdraw from usual activities they enjoy with friends or family meals because of these concerns about eating.

As warning signs begin to appear, he recommends speaking with a pediatrician or primary care doctor who can assess the situation.

Teenagers can also share how theyre feeling with their physician, a counselor at school, or friends.

Nagata also recommends the National Eating Disorders Associations Helpline, which can be reached by phone or text at (800) 931-2237. In crises, you can text NEDA to 741741 to talk with a trained volunteer.

Originally posted here:
Eating disorders among teens are up during COVID. Pediatrician offers tips on what to watch for - KCRW

Executive Chef Katie Cavuto explains how she ensures that delicious and nutritious food co-exist at Saladworks.

Katie Cavuto is the executive chef at New Jersey-based Saladworks. Provided

By Katie Cavuto, executive chef, Saladworks

Whole 30 and Keto may still be trending along with plant-based diets and sustainable food conversations, yet amidst all of the diet talk, new data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics shows that 90% of Americans are not getting the recommended 2-3 cups of vegetables per day for reasons including budget, accessibility, time constraints and food preferences.

And while the way we define healthy seems to be constantly evolving and changing, one thing remains the same, there are benefits found in a plate filled with whole foods, fruits and vegetables and we choose foods because they taste great! Historically our ideas around health food are not synonymous with bold, rich and crave-worthy flavors so you may find yourself asking, "Can delicious and nutritious co-exist? Can nourishing also mean satisfying?"

The answer is yes! As a dietitian and executive chef at Saladworks, I can assure you nourishing foods can and SHOULD taste great! A healthy diet doesn't have to feel depriving. All foods can fit on a healthy plate though this will look different for everyone. And while nutrition and health recommendations may not be one-size-fits-all, the importance of flavor is one principle we can all agree on because one way we can collectively encourage our guests to "Eat More Vegetables" is to season them well and prepare them in a way that makes them irresistible!

At Saladworks, our menu is built on these four foundations: freshness, flavor, nourishment and variety. We all strive to make our offerings accessible to everyone and we pride ourselves on keeping our price points reasonable.

With a full array of over 60 ingredients, we strive to provide guests with an abundance of fresh, flavorful and nourishing menu options as preferences vary between guests and more options mean more opportunities to inspire good choices. More than just sating an appetite, this allows guests to create a meal that also fuels their originality. From raw veggies to roasted and plant-based proteins like baked tofu and smoky chickpeas to our new Super Premium Carved Prime Rib and Roasted Shrimp Skewers we have options for almost every diet and lifestyle choice.

And while we've always believed in the benefits of offering an abundance of plant-based options, since long before it was trendy, we pride ourselves on the variety we provide our guests in our menu categories. In addition to our popular Create Your Own menu category, we also offer 12 unique Chef-inspired recipes all of which can be prepared with a base of greens, warm super grains or a combination of both. And, depending upon the desire of our guests, all of these menu items can be ordered as a salad, a warm grain bowl or a wrap more options to create their personal version of "healthy"!

As for the "all-foods-fit" and flavor-forward philosophy I mentioned earlier, we make it easy to create a plant-centric plate without sacrificing the satisfaction that comes from including more decadent ingredients like smoky bacon or your favorite cheese, we have six options. A little goes a long way with these ingredients and we include some of them in our Signature recipe builds as a gateway for guests to try and enjoy otherwise plant-forward menu items. We like to call this a "safe-adventure!"

Speaking of adventures, while Covid-culture may be keeping us at home, a rich food experience has the ability to transport us to faraway places. Our upcoming "Flavor Your World" campaign will allow our guests to taste new flavors and cultures without ever leaving their neighborhood. It's also a nod to yet another way "healthy" has evolved. Guests are looking to reinvent their idea of health food. They may know the health benefits of eating more vegetables and choosing lean proteins but they want us to transform these ingredients into "WOW!" experiences.

We agree, there is no need to sacrifice flavor for healthy and, with the addition of herbs and spices to create flavor profiles that span the world, we're actually adding health benefits. These ingredients have been praised for their medicinal properties since long before our time. A great example of delicious and nutritious co-existing is our Za'atar Roasted Cauliflower, which shines in our new Grilled Chicken Mediterranean Signature. We roast the cauliflower, along with several other vegetables for salad and warm grain bowl toppings because raw isn't for everyone the concentration of flavor adds appeal for many. Za'atar, a delicious blend of sumac, thyme and sesame seeds also has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

We see guests becoming more educated on such benefits and therefore seeking meal options with the intention to nourish and care for themselves and their families. This is particularly prevalent with Millennial parents, which is why we created our Kids Works meals with the same principles as our broader menu. Freshness, flavor, nourishment and variety are also the foundation of our Create Your Own Salad and Build Your Own Meal Kids Works menu items where creativity reigns supreme and even our youngest guests can try new foods and create a healthy meal that is bursting with originality.

And the reality is, the pandemic has impacted everyone differently. Some people have more time to cook; others find themselves with less time, while even more face food insecurity. To help address the issues around health food accessibility we partnered with No Kid Hungry, which provides food to children in need. And every day, we make a Vow to "WOW!" it's our commitment to our guests that ensures they have access to a wide variety of fresh, flavorful and nourishing ingredients so they can customize their version of a healthy meal that is as original as they are.

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Saladworks pivots menu as definition of 'healthy eating' evolves - Fast Casual

WISCONSIN Here's a hard-boiled truth about the annual ritual of Easter egg hunts: If you're not careful, you could expose the kiddos to salmonella food poisoning.

If you're dyeing Easter eggs and storing them in the refrigerator like any other hard-boiled egg, you can eat them for up to a week afterward as long as you've used food-safe dyes or food coloring, according to the American Egg Board.

But if you're decorating and hiding them, enjoy their beauty but not their taste.

About 1 in every 20,000 eggs is contaminated with salmonella, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and there's no way to know by looking at the eggs which ones might have the bacteria lurking in them.If they do contain Subscribe

Some important considerations:

In some cultures and Easter traditions, the egg whites and yolks are blown out of the shell. If you're blowing out an egg, follow these tips from the USDA and Jessi Wohlwend on her DIY blog, Practically Functional:

The USDA frowns on eating eggs used for hunting but says if the intent is to have the kids eat them, the eggs should be hidden in places that are free of dirt, moisture, pets and other sources of bacteria. Keep in mind, too, that eggs in the dirt can pick up bacteria from the soil, especially if the shells are cracked.

The total "hide and hunt time" should never exceed two hours, the USDA says. Found eggs should be washed, put back in the refrigerator and eaten within seven days of the date they were boiled.

The agency would rather folks boil two sets of eggs one for eating and the other for decorating and hiding or use plastic eggs in the hunt.Salmonella illnesses are unpleasant, but usually not life-threatening except in some cases of people with weakened immune systems, adults 65 and older and children 5 and younger, the CDC says. In most cases, the illness will last four to seven days of eating the contaminated food, with symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, fever and abdominal cramps.Here are some facts about eggs in general from the American Egg Board:

Want to know how to peel a hard-boiled egg without damaging the whites? Check this out from the American Egg Board:

Originally posted here:
How Long Are Hard-Boiled Easter Eggs Safe To Eat? - Patch.com

OHIO If you've used food-safe dyes on your Easter eggs, they could be good to eat for up to one week (if properly refrigerated and stored).

However, if you're decorating with non-edible colors or hiding the eggs outside avoid eating your creations, the USDA says. There's a chance you could expose yourself or others to salmonella.

About 1 in every 20,000 eggs is contaminated with salmonella, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and there's no way to know by looking at the eggs which ones might have the bacteria lurking in them.

If they do contain salmonella bacteria, the contaminant can multiply quickly at room temperature, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That's why it's important to refrigerate eggs as soon as possible after gathering or bringing them home from the store.

Some important considerations:

In some cultures and Easter traditions, the egg whites and yolks are blown out of the shell. If you're blowing out an egg, follow these tips from the USDA and Jessi Wohlwend on her DIY blog, Practically Functional:

The USDA frowns on eating eggs used for hunting but says if the intent is to have the kids eat them, the eggs should be hidden in places that are free of dirt, moisture, pets and other sources of bacteria. Keep in mind, too, that eggs in the dirt can pick up bacteria from the soil, especially if the shells are cracked.

The total "hide and hunt time" should never exceed two hours, the USDA says. Found eggs should be washed, put back in the refrigerator and eaten within seven days of the date they were boiled.

The agency would rather folks boil two sets of eggs one for eating and the other for decorating and hiding or use plastic eggs in the hunt.

Salmonella illnesses are unpleasant, but usually not life-threatening except in some cases of people with weakened immune systems, adults 65 and older and children 5 and younger, the CDC says. In most cases, the illness will last four to seven days of eating the contaminated food, with symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, fever and abdominal cramps.

Here are some facts about eggs in general from the American Egg Board:

Want to know how to peel a hard-boiled egg without damaging the whites? Check this out from the American Egg Board:

Follow this link:
Hard-Boiled Easter Eggs: How Long Are They Safe To Eat? - Patch.com

As individuals toggle between optimism and impending doom, the two factors that determine how you see the world are your vaccination status and where you live, said UCSF chair of the department of medicine Dr. Bob Wachter. To help evaluate the risks of certain actions, Wachter brought on three Grand Rounds regulars to discuss regional covid-19 updates and to answer questions about what theyre comfortable doing now that theyre vaccinated.

UCSF professor of medicine Dr. George Rutherford began his presentation with an update on the quite telling international situation. Countries like the United Kingdom and the United States that have done fabulous jobs getting people vaccinated have demonstrated massive drop offs in transmission, whereas countries such as France, Canada and Brazil all struggling with vaccinations have not been able to move the dial, Rutherford said. One anomaly is Chile, which has done very well in vaccinating people, but has not been able to drive down its rate yet, though he is unsure why.

In the United States, there have been close to 31 million cases, with a seven-day average of 65,556 new cases per day. Deaths continue to decline, though yesterday there were 2,564 reported deaths. All eyes are on the upper Midwest as the large outbreak in Michigan continues, Rutherford said. The outbreak is driven largely by the B.1.1.7 (the UK) variant, and appears to have been spurred by youth athletic events. Rutherford said it may be related to the outbreak in Ontario, despite borders being officially closed. Meanwhile, the outbreak on the Eastern seaboard is starting to turn the corner.

California is faring much better with a one percent positivity test rate and a basic reproductive number (R number) of 0.8 and hospitalizations continue to fall. ICU capacity statewide is at 31 percent, and the remaining counties with increasing cases are all very small, Rutherford said. The government announced that it is moving away from the tier system on June 15 when many covid-19 restrictions are to be removed if two criteria are met: equitable vaccine accessibility for those 16 and older, and a consistently low burden of disease.

However, this does not mean that covid has gone away, Rutherford said, as there are about 5,000 new infections a day in California.

Cases in the Bay Area are mostly steady, with low case counts in all counties except for Solano and Napa. San Francisco is close to meeting all criteria for the yellow tier, where it will have to remain for three weeks to receive yellow designation.

Over 20 million vaccines have been administered in California, and the seven-day average is 324,689 doses per day. Some 34 percent of Californians are fully vaccinated and in San Francisco 45.6 percent of people have received at least one dose, though Rutherford said this number is lower because not everyone vaccinated in San Francisco lives there.

Florida, home of the famous spring break, has the highest number of B.1.1.7 cases, and is trailed by Michigan, Minnesota, Colorado, and California. Rutherford believes that the B.1.1.7 variant hasnt driven the epidemic curve in California because other variants like B.1.427 and B.1.429 (the West Coast variants) are here.

Though this trend may not hold up over time, the good news is that a New England Journal article indicates that these variants are susceptible to the Novavax and Moderna vaccines, Rutherford said.

Asked about the biological and probably political bet to reopen on June 15, Rutherford told Wachter that biologically its not a bad bet. Yet he still noted uncertainty around the B.1.1.7 variant in Southern California and youth sports.

He believes we are on the way to herd immunity statewide on June 15. After listing what could derail these efforts (unknown vaccine side effects, vaccination levels slowing, widespread transmission of more variants, or diversion of the vaccine to other states), Rutherford said I just dont see it happening.

Next, Wachter brought on UCSF medicine professors Dr. Monica Gandhi and Dr. Peter Chin-Hong to answer a series of questions about the safety of certain actions once vaccinated.

Wachter started off by asking if Rutherfords outlook was appropriately sunny?

I love warm weather, Chin-Hong said, but the question is really Whats in the future? He is worried about the waning of natural immunity in fall or winter and young adults who may not get vaccinated in time. However, he is basking in the sun right now.

Gandhi, on the other hand, seemed completely unfazed by fear, calling herself literally giddy about vaccine effectiveness in real-world settings and praising it so much that Wachter said, Talk me down Monica.

There is nothing in my mind why there would be a surge in the fall or the winter when the vaccines are being distributed, she said.

Gandhi cited a CDC study of vaccine effectiveness in healthcare workers across the United States released on March 29. The study found out of 1,000 people who were vaccinated, only one person was infected with covid-19, and out of 1,000 people who were unvaccinated, only 161 became infected. Chin-Hong pushed back, suggesting that healthcare workers may take other precautions more seriously. In response, Gandhi cited a Pfizer study of 40,000 individuals across the globe which found that the vaccine was 100 percent effective in stopping severe illness and death.

The vaccines, she said are even better in the real world than they were in the clinical trials, and thats saying something.

Gandhi and Chin-Hong are both comfortable eating at indoor restaurants, going to the gym, getting haircuts, and traveling on airplanes now that theyre vaccinated. Chin-Hong was cautious about events with bigger crowds such as music festivals, especially because there is still a small chance of acquiring covid once vaccinated. Both agreed that it is important to continue masking in public, though for Gandhi this was less out of caution and more out of politeness for social norms as not everyone has gotten the chance to be vaccinated yet.

The pair explained two important factors in risk assessment: vaccination status and the amount of virus circulating in ones community. For example, flying domestically in California is more advisable than flying to Michigan.

For those who are unvaccinated, such as children, Chin-Hong said that alternatives to travel should be taken if possible, but he believes that it is warranted in some situations, such as for family reasons.

Gandhi said that unvaccinated people can go to gyms and outdoor restaurants safely, but advised against indoor dining. Chin-Hong cautioned unvaccinated individuals against taking risks such as not wearing ones mask in a gym, especially considering variants.

Im worried about both the biology and the sort of feeling that Im invincible because everyone else feels like they are, he said.

The two shared similar beliefs about vaccine passports, saying that it is unfair to require immunity passports before everyone has had an equal opportunity to be vaccinated, but that they will likely become a reality eventually.

The writings on the wall. Whether or not we like it or not, its happening, Chin-Hong said, noting that it is already required on airplanes and in some places in Los Angeles and New York. He said that alternatives such as requiring testing before entering public spaces may be more ethical.

See our previous Grand Rounds coverage here.

Link:
UCSF Grand Rounds: Regional updates and playing Is it safe to? with two UCSF medicine professors - Mission Local

Programs offer youth a chance to exercise and socialize.

What I like about swimming is that I get to stay in shape, Ayden Kusumoto said. I am doing online learning, it is hard to find stuff that keeps me active. I swim really hard and, mentally, it helps me get rid of stress. I have a lot of stress because of school and when I swim it just goes away.

Kusumoto, 15, joined San Benito Aquatics around a year ago and has been part of the swim team since. On Feb. 13, he participated in the first swim meet since last March and was happy to be there.

San Benito Aquatics operates the pool at San Benito High School. The pool is open year-round and offers swim lessons, lap swimming and training for competition.

Swim lessons are currently fully booked, but there is a waiting list available through the website.

The pool is also used for certification of both scuba diving and lifesaving through outside programs.

The people here are really great, Kusumoto said. They really cheer me on, giving me advice, and trying to help me be better. The coach is firm but you always learn from him. And the kids here are good competition which helps me improve as a swimmer.

With the San Benito High School pool being one of the few sporting venues open to the public at the moment, Aydens father, Ray Kusumoto, said swimming has helped his son cope with the isolation imposed by COVID-19.

He has not been able to go to school as much as he would like, Ray said. Swimming has really kept him activelike a lot of teenagers his nutrition is not ideal so this gives him a way to keep up his physical fitness. And mentally, swimming keeps him focused, but being here also gives him time to spend with his friends. It has been huge with him. I would encourage parents to bring their kids down here.

Mia Guardino, 14, moved from gymnastics to swimming seven years ago on the advice of a friend and has been on the SBHS swim team ever since. In 2019, she successfully competed in the Coast Valley Aquatic League Championships, and the Feb. 13 meet was her first chance to compete in over a year due to the pandemic.

It has been really sad to not have any events, Guardino said. Especially when I pass by the Morgan Hill Aquatics Center, where we had a lot of meets before. I really missed ittrying hard to improve your times and cheering for your friends at the top of your lungs.

Maddie Corrigan, 15, has been swimming and attending these kinds of meets for nine years. She said they are a way of measuring your own abilities.You are not really racing against other people, said Corrigan. You are racing against yourself, trying to get your best time you can and do the best you can.

Corrigan represents San Benito Aquatics in the South Bay Aquatics program and also works as a lifeguard at the pool. During the meets, shes involved in monitoring the activity of the contestants to help maintain safety and improve performance.

For a session like this, I make sure all the kids are in their lanes and doing what they need to do, Corrigan said. I make sure they have an understanding of the sport and that they are swimming hard and working hard. If the kids dont do their best time at an event, we will work at the next practice to improve it. But we want to do it in a way that they will enjoy it. But most importantly, that they are having fun.

The swim meet was held under the direction of Coach Michael Fujii, who was a U.S. National qualifier, High School All-American and Collegiate All-American. He works with the young swimmers five days a week and is grateful that swimming and swim meets are among the few youth athletic programs allowed under current state guidelines.

We have really had to reinvent meets, he said. We have to limit how many people can warm up in a lane, we have to keep up with the social distancing and we separate the older kids from the younger kids. We can only practice for an hour rather than two. We are moving in sessions and keeping the parents off the deck to eliminate overcrowding. It has been complex.

While the meets are geared toward competitive swimmers, there are programs for all ability levels, from stay-in-shape swimmers to the kids who want to progress in their skills. Fujii said all ages and abilities are welcome at the pool, and he encourages swimming as a healthy and safe form of exercise.

Guardino agreed. Swimming is great for your health and it involves every muscle in your body. It has made me push myself more and be more confident. It also gives me a place to escape my problems. To me, the water is like a second home.

BenitoLink is a nonprofit news websitethat reports on San Benito County. Our team is working around the clock during this time when accurate information is essential. It is expensive to produce local news and community support is what keeps the news flowing. Please considersupporting BenitoLink,San Benito Countys news.

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San Benito Aquatics offers safe place for swimming and competition - Benitolink: San Benito County News

Mid-Week and first Wednesday in April. Mark the occasion by enjoying a nice and delicious meals at any of our participating #tasteofkeybiscayne restaurants.

#meal-deals this Wednesday, April 7, 2021

Join us tonight - Open for Indoor dining and limited outdoor seating, or if you prefer, make it a La Scala dinner-at-home night with Takeout. Offering curbside delivery

Call Chandra so he may recommend a special Wednesday night dinner pasta-dish from their regular menu!

Our place is safe, we sanitize every hour and will continue to do so as they reopen the dining room!

The popular Italian Bistro now offers their delicious meals to enjoy at home and thank you for the great support during this challenging time!

To place a takeout order call (786) 773-3633 or visit us online here.

Open 5 to 10 p.m.

180 Crandon Blvd Arcade Shopping Center

We are open to serve you with indoor & ample outdoor seating, takeout or delivery!

We have the perfect roll for your Wednesday meal!

Modern Japanese fusion restaurant. We offer creative treatments & creativity in our dishes for takeout and delivery by our own employees. Available for lunch and dinner.

NEW HOURS!

Mon to Sat Noon to 9:45 p.m.

Closed Sundays

To place an order call (305) 361-2675 or order online here.

At Pops, we love burgers! Confident we have your favorite combination!

Our burgers are made with 100% certified Angus beef and we offer from the most basic burger or cheeseburger, to our new Signature Burgers!!

We also serve Hot Dogs, nachos with chili and many other favorites, in addition to shakes and desserts!

Try our Wednesday feature item our delicious BLACK WIDOW sandwich. What is in it? Come in to find out and enjoy!

We serve our food in a safe and family style setting and we are pet friendly!

Pops Burger is located in the Square Mall, at 260 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne

We are open at Noon to 9 p.m. seven-days a week. We close at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

To place an order, please call (786) 401-7474

We offer dine-in, takeout and delivery via UberEats and Postmates

At PANNA we like to say we offer a taste to remember, the place you love. We are serving the most delicious Venezuelan food combined with other traditional delights from Colombia and Argentina in a fast-service, friendly and casual setting.

At PANNA, everyone can find something to eat for breakfast, lunch, snack or dinner

We are proud to offer the best Venezuelan cachitos and tequeos on the island, made with traditional recipes.

Today, we invite you to try a PANNA exclusive - our TROPICAL AREPA. Only $6.94

We offer a dine-in or grab-and-go menu for you to enjoy at home.

Convenient order online for takeout or delivery. Click here.

We are located at 600 Crandon Blvd, Suite 130, Key Biscayne next to Winn Dixie. You can reach us at (305) 456-0886

From San Marino, the oldest & smallest republic in the world located in the center north of Italy, now serving authentic Italian cuisine in Key Biscayne.

In Italian, AMICI means friends and that is what you will find at AMICIs a friendly atmosphere surpassed only by the excellent Authentic Italian cuisine

Today, our mid-week special is our Branzino alla Griglia (only $33), whose exceptional preparation is only surpassed by the incredible flavors.

AMICI at Key Biscayne is located inside The Towers of Key Biscayne at 1111 Crandon Blvd. To make a reservation call (786) 453-0974 or Email info@amiciatkeybiscayne.com

To see the complete menu and the history of the family behind the excellence that is AMICI, click here.

Join us. Open for Indoor dining & expanded Outdoor dining, Takeout or FREE Delivery.

We ask you please wear a mask and observe social distancing.

Want something really unique to start this Wednesday? Try our incredibly delicious Eggs Benedict Arepa

We deliver our famous craft beers. Call for your favorite, or take advantage of our Wine sale! All our white & red wine bottles are $12 - and we will deliver

Hours of operations: Mon - Sat 8 AM to CLOSE

Sunday Brunch 9 AM to 4 PM

Call us directly at (305) 365-6003 to place an order.

Place your Order Online here

https://www.artisankitchenandbar.com/online-ordering/artisan-kitchen-bar/menu/order-settings

Ristorante Forchetta

Looking for a new Italian spot to eat? Then, do not look any further and visit the new Fine Italian Dining hotspot of Key Biscayne, Ristorante Forchetta, where every meal is cooked from scratch.

The name of the restaurant Ristorante Forchetta is inspired by the Italian word for fork, which is the perfect gateway to enjoy a memorable culinary journey to Italy at our restaurant.

Classic and perfect: Filetto di Manzo! This grilled filet mignon is served with sauted garlic mushrooms and a Barolo red wine demi-glace sauce.

Our indoor dining room, with its turquoise and golden elements reminds of the seaside of Italy, and blends in perfectly to the maritime setting of Key Biscayne, where the sea is just steps away. However, we also offer outdoor seating and takeout.

Ristorante Forchetta is located in the Square Shopping Center at 260 Crandon Blvd Suite 29 30. To make a reservation call (305) 361 6252.

We are open daily for Lunch 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Dinner 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

We are looking forward to your next Fine Italian Dining experience!

Open Seas Cafe

Enjoy the day in a true beachside setting at OpenSeas Cafe, you will be pampered with delectable offerings from Caribbean dishes to our local favorites.

Try our signature conch fritters or our renowned fish tacos for a treat you wont forget. Our frozen daiquiris or flavorful margaritas are the perfect combination for beach and sun.

We also offer beachside food delivery and chair and umbrella service.

On this Wednesday, we invite you to try our delicious Bahaiman Conch fritters for only $9.95 for 6 or $17.95 for a dozen

We are located in Crandon Park / South Beach at 6747 Crandon Blvd. Key Biscayne. We are open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (weather permitting).

Call or text us at (786) 305 4747 for more information or order. Visit us online by clicking here.

https://openseasmiami.com/

Ayesha Indian Restaurant

Wednesday the perfect day for that special South Indian meal. How spicy do you want it?

Join us today, indoor & outdoor seating to help with social distancing.

For our full menu or to order online click here.

https://www.restaurantji.com/fl/key-biscayne/ayesha-saffron-indian-restaurant-/

FREE APPETIZER when you spend $50 and FREE DELIVERY

Tuesday Sunday 5 to 9:30 p.m.

Call (786) 953-4761 to place a takeout order

328 Crandon Blvd - #115 Key Biscayne

Brasas KB

Open for covered Indoor & Outdoor Dining, Takeout or delivery!

Mid-Week special.... Our delicious half pound hamburger, with one side and a soda, only $10.99 - loaded it up with a fried egg, bacon, cheese and pickles to make it a "completa" for only $4 more! Can't beat the quality! Unmatched value!

Have you tried our Peruvian Chicken Rotisserie for lunch or dinner that include 2 sides and sauce of your choice: huancana, aj amarillo, huacatay and olivas negras peruanas.

Call (786) 615-2399 to place a takeout order. Open Noon to 8 p.m.

328 Crandon Blvd, Galleria Shopping Center

Costa Med Bistro

Open for Indoor and Expanded Outdoor Dining, Takeout!

Offering delicious Takeout-friendly options menu!!! We have taken all recommended safety precautions and more!

Today, start your Costa meal with our exclusive Burrata & Prosciutto appetizer!

Order online for take out - click here!

https://www.toasttab.com/costa-med/v3

Costa Med, a TripAdvisor Traverlers Choice nominated restaurant, is located in the Square Shopping Center. 260 Crandon Blvd. Since they are operating at reduced capacity, reservations suggested.

Call Antonio or Harold at (305) 361-7575

Hours.

Lunch Mon to Sat: Noon a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dinner Mon to Sat: 6 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. / Sun 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Boaters Grill & Lighthouse Caf / Bill Baggs

The restaurants inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park the popular Boaters Grill, located at No Name Harbor and accessible by boat, and the beachside Lighthouse Caf are ready to serve you.

Start the holiday with a delicious breakfast under the Lighthouse!

Start your day with us under the Lighthouse serving traditional breakfast favorites being served at Lighthouse Cafe

Boaters Grill is open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Lighthouse Caf is open 7-days a week, from 9 a.m. to Sunset

The restaurants are located inside Bill Baggs State Park, at 1200 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne. You can reach them at (305) 361-0080

Tacopolis

What do they say at Tacopolis? Everyday is Taco-Day!! Only eat tacos on days that end in a Y

Enjoy flavor and stay fit with our Veggie fried rice

Tacopolis was born as an idea in Cancun Mexico years ago. We offer a family concept, serving authentic Mexican flavors in a casual and relaxed atmosphere

Open Seven Days a week, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for Indoor & Outdoor dining, Takeout or delivery by our own service of find us on UberEats

Read more from the original source:
Meal-Deals on the island for Wednesday, April 7 - Islander News.com

Mangoes are loaded with fibre and vitamin C

The summer season is also known as the mango season. Mango is a delicious and juicy fruit that you cannot afford to miss this summer. Not just the pleasant taste, it can also provide you with plenty of health benefits. This summer fruit is well packed with nutrients that can boost your health in more ways than one. Being high in fibre and low in calories, mangoes are perfect for your weight loss diet too. Other than vitamin C, you can also receive essential nutrients like folate, protein, vitamin B6, vitamin A, potassium, magnesium and much more by adding mangoes to your diet. Nutritionist and fitness expert Munmun Ganeriwal took to Instagram to share some impressive reasons why you should not miss this fruit.

Mango has a low GI score therefore it is safe for diabetics to consume mangoes. "Mango is not only safe for diabetics but highly recommended as it delivers sustained energy without spiking the blood sugar levels," Ganeriwal says.

Mango is also weight loss friendly as it is fat-free, cholesterol-free and does not make you fat even if you eat it every day. It is also loaded with soluble fibre which can keep you satisfied for longer and keep hunger pangs at bay.

Diabetics can enjoy mangoes safelyPhoto Credit: iStock

According to Ganeriwal, mangoes are rich in vitamin B6. It can help you regulate hormones and reduce PMS.

Also read:Should Diabetics Eat Mangoes? Do They Cause Weight Gain? Luke Coutinho's Word On It

Mangoes are rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium and vitamin C that can help you improve blood pressure. Magnesium in mango is also beneficial for those suffering from thyroid-related issues.

Also read:Can I Eat Mangoes If I Am Trying To Lose Weight? Know A Nutritionist's Reply

Mangoes are loaded with dietary fibre and water content that can help keep your digestion healthy. Fibre can ensure healthy bowel movements and prevent constipation. This juicy fruit also contains digestive enzymes.

High fibre foods can help keep constipation at bayPhoto Credit: iStock

Vitamin A in mango makes it your skin's best friend. It helps fight acne and provides anti-ageing properties. Vitamin C also promotes collagen production that improves hair and skin health.

Also read:Diabetes: These Leaves Can Lower Your Blood Sugar Levels Effectively; Learn How To Use Them

"Soak mangoes in water for 30 mins before eating and enjoy between 11 am-5 pm," says Ganeriwal.

This mango season do not miss the king of fruits and the many benefits it can offer.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

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