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Feb 21

What Is The Atlantic Diet – Differences Between Atlantic Diet And Mediterranean Diet – Delish

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The Mediterranean diet isnt going anywhere; it was just named the top diet again by U.S. News and World Report. But a newcomer called the Atlantic diet, which has a few key differences, is getting buzz following a study published this month in JAMA Network Open. The research suggests you dont have to entirely rule out meat and potatoes in order to keep your waistline, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels in check.

The Atlantic diet comes from traditional eating patterns in the Northwestern Iberian Peninsulaspecifically, northwestern Spain and northern Portugal, explains Kim Yawitz, R.D., a dietitian and gym owner in St. Louis.

Its been compared to the better-known Mediterranean diet, and for good reason, she says. Both diets encourage liberal consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, olive oil, nuts, and fish and allow moderate wine consumption.

The key difference is that the typical Atlantic diet allows for more beef and pork and tends to be more starch-heavy than the Mediterranean diet.

Heres everything to know about the Atlantic diet, according to dietitians.

Local, fresh foods that are seasonal and minimally processed are the focus of an Atlantic diet.

Staples of the diet include fruits, vegetables, whole grain bread, potatoes (often served in stews), beans, olive oil, fish and other seafood, milk and cheese, as well as dried fruits, and nuts, especially chestnuts. The Atlantic diet also allows for moderate amounts of beef, pork, poultry, and wine.

Skip the fried foods, though: The regional cuisine is mostly grilled, broiled, baked, or stewed.

Stewing in particular is a method of slow-cooking that can help retain nutrients and enhance flavors, incorporating ingredients like seafood, lean meats, vegetables, and legumes and reflecting the culinary traditions of regions along the Atlantic coast, says Michelle Routhenstein, M.S. RD., C.D.N., a cardiology dietitian and owner of Entirely Nourished. You can use fresh herbs and spices to amp up the flavor in your stews, she says.

The Atlantic diet is low in saturated fat and rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats, points out Yawitz. In the 2024 study that involved 574 participants, those who followed the diet for six months saw significant improvements in waist circumference and HDL (i.e., good) cholesterol, she says.

Other recent studies, Yawitz points out, suggest the Atlantic diet may help reduce depression and boost longevity.

Routhenstein likes that the Atlantic diet focuses on seafood and healthy fats, such as those found in fish and olive oil. This can contribute to improved heart health and reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

A 2022 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that people who ate more than a half teaspoon of olive oil daily had lower rates of premature death from cardiovascular disease compared to those who never or rarely consumed the oil. Dietitians hail extra virgin olive oil as a healthy fat because its rich in antioxidants like oleocanthal, which is known to help fight inflammation. (Chronic inflammation is such a big concern because its linked to an array of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more.)

Much like the Mediterranean diet, the health benefits of the Atlantic diet are largely good for long-term cognitive health, says dietitian Michelle Saari, R.D.N. at EHealth Project. Fresh seafood and olive oil are rich in omega-3 fats, a nutrient linked to brain function.

While the aforementioned studies are promising, the Atlantic diet hasnt been researched extensively, Yawitz says. This is surprising, given that Southern Europeans have been eating this way for centuries.

Based on the available studies and given its similarities to the Mediterranean diet, the diet appears to be pretty healthy overall, she says. That said, the plan is just different enough from the Mediterranean diet to warrant further investigation.

The diet might also pose some challenges for those who live in regions with limited access to fresh seafood, says Routhenstein. Also, some people struggle with constantly preparing fresh meals, and the Atlantic diet heavily encourages people to be cooking from scratch, Saari says.

Starting a new plan can feel overwhelming, but you can ease into the Atlantic diet by making simple changes to your current diet.

For example, you might swap your white bread for whole grain, throw some fish on the grill instead of your usual strip steak, or order vegetable soup rather than broccoli cheddar, Yawitz suggests.

The Atlantic diet is still relatively new on the diet scene so you wont find many recipe books at your local bookstore, she says. You can search the internet for healthy Spanish or Portuguese recipes or look through Mediterranean diet cookbooks if you need inspiration.

Here are a few more tips for starting the Atlantic diet, according to Saari:

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What Is The Atlantic Diet - Differences Between Atlantic Diet And Mediterranean Diet - Delish


Feb 21

A plant-based diet and its relationship with oxidative biomarkers in footballers – News-Medical.Net

In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, researchers investigated the association between plant-based diets and oxidative biomarkers by calculating the plant-based diet index score and determining the levels of urinary biomarkers for oxidative stress in professional footballers.

The accumulation of reactive oxygen species in the body leads to the damage of protein, lipids, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is known as oxidative stress. The concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and F2alpha-isoprostane (F2a-IP) in urine have often been used as markers of oxidative stress. Diets that are largely plant-based have been thought to reduce oxidative stress and protect against reactive oxygen species.

Plant-based diets are also becoming increasingly popular, especially among athletes who have high energy and endurance requirements. These diets are categorized based on the proportion of plant to animal-based components in the diet. They range from completely plant-based, such as vegan diets, to semi-vegetarian diets that include some animal-based components.

Given that football is a sport that consists of activities such as intense bursts of running, jumps, and sprints that require high energy levels, adherence to nutritional diets is vital to the performance of footballers. They provide an ideal group to investigate how plant-based diets are associated with oxidative stress.

In the present study, the researchers compared the levels of urinary biomarkers F2a-IP and 8-OHdG and the plant-based diet index scores between professional male footballers and matched non-athlete controls to examine whether plant-based diets were associated with decreased oxidative stress.

Footballers who had at least two years of professional experience and had strict training schedules were included in the study if their metabolic equivalent of the task was greater than 3000 minutes per week. They were also required to be non-smokers and not consume alcohol or take any antioxidant supplements. Healthy males with matched ages and body mass index (BMI) measures who had a metabolic equivalent of task between 600 and 3000 minutes per week were included as controls.

Interviews were conducted to determine the medical history, food intake data, physical activity levels, and general information on nutrition from all the participants. Anthropometric measurements such as height and weight were measured to calculate the BMI, and urine samples were obtained to measure the oxidative stress biomarker levels. A questionnaire was also used to determine physical activity levels.

A semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire was used to determine the food intake of all the participants over the previous year, including the consumption of specific items being determined in terms of grams per day. The plant-based diet index score was calculated using this information, and the results were used to classify the diets into three major groups healthy plant foods, less healthy plant foods, and animal foods.

The healthy plant foods diets consisted of vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, legumes, coffee, tea, and vegetable oils, while the less healthy plant food diets consisted more of refined grains and sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts. The diets that were predominantly animal food-based consisted mainly of meat, eggs, seafood, fish, dairy, and animal fat.

The results showed that the plant-based diet index score of the footballers was significantly higher than that of the matched non-athlete controls, but the healthy and unhealthy plant-based diet index scores that were separately calculated based on the diet groups were not significantly different for the footballers and non-athletes.

Furthermore, plant-based diets were found to be linked to lower levels of the oxidative stress biomarker F2a-IP in the urine samples of all participants, indicating improved antioxidant status due to plant-based diets. Compared to non-athletes, footballers were also found to be more adherent to plant-based diets, as hypothesized by the researchers.

Footballers were found to consume more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts than non-athletes, while the consumption of total and animal fats was lower among footballers than non-athletes.

The researchers also discussed the potential role of antioxidants and polyphenols present in plant-based diets in lowering oxidative stress. They also discussed findings from other studies that found inverse associations between F2a-IP concentrations and vegetable components such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and lutein, suggesting that diets rich in vegetables lower oxidative stress.

Furthermore, dietary fats are known to increase the production of F2a-IP and influence the concentrations of F2a-IP transporters in plasma, which could potentially explain why diets low in dietary fats were associated with lower F2a-IP levels in the urine.

Overall, the results suggested that adherence to plant-based diets among footballers was linked to lower levels of the oxidative stress biomarker F2a-IP in urine. Additionally, the plant-based diet scores also showed that footballers were more likely to adhere to nutritional plant-based diets than non-athletes.

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A plant-based diet and its relationship with oxidative biomarkers in footballers - News-Medical.Net


Feb 21

Sydney Sweeney Seemingly Had The Best Response To An Influencer Who Apparently Lied About Being Her Dietician … – BuzzFeed News

Meanwhile, others pointed out how scary it is that people boldly lie on social media in order to promote and sell their products.

Sooooo many people are lying just to sell a product on tiktok its kinda scary, one personsaid. Im glad sydney called her out cuz these influencers be saying ANYTHING, another userwrote.

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Sydney Sweeney Seemingly Had The Best Response To An Influencer Who Apparently Lied About Being Her Dietician ... - BuzzFeed News


Feb 21

A high-protein diet and elevation in the amino acid leucine may contribute to buildup of plaque in arteries – News-Medical.Net

In a recent study published in Nature Metabolism, researchers conducted clinical studies on murine animals and humans to evaluate the impact of high protein intake on the amino acid-mammalian target of the rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) autophagy signaling pathway. They also assessed the dose-response relationship, downstream effects, and amino acid specificity of mTORC1 activation.

Animal studies have reported high protein intake associated with cardiovascular disease in Western nations. High-protein diets enhance atherogenesis through amino-acid-mediated mTORC1 signaling and impair autophagy and mitophagy in macrophages. The specific articular processes underlying this activation remain unknown, although the authors speculate that the stimulatory impact may be related to certain 'pathogenic' amino acids.

In the present study, researchers conducted two clinical experiments to investigate the dose-response connection between dietary protein consumption and the amino acid specificity of the amino acid-mTOR-autophagy pathway in human monocytes or macrophages.

The first experiment examined protein consumption extremes by assessing the impact of fluid meals containing 50% or 10% protein content on mTORC1 pathway activation in monocytes. The second experiment used a more realistic setting, assessing these results in subjects who received standard protein meals or mixed meals with more protein (15% kilocalories vs. 22% kilocalories). The study analyzed monocytes expressing cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14+) but not CD16 since they represent most monocytes in circulation and are most likely to develop into atherosclerotic macrophages.

The team performed flow cytometry and monocyte isolation from platelets. They used western blotting, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), and immunofluorescence to investigate the impact of different protein content meals on serological amino acid levels, monocyte mTORC1 signaling, and downstream consequences.

The team investigated 14 overweight individuals [based on body mass index (BMI)] twice following a 12-hour overnight fast. The participants consumed low- and very high-level protein meals. The researchers used cultured human monocyte-derived macrophages to investigate the macrophage-specific mTORC1 response to amino acids and to assess dosage effects.

They measured amino acid concentrations in plasma and macrophages using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and quantified the arginine amounts in plasma using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. They determined the size of atherosclerotic lesions using Oil Red O staining of aortic root slices.

The researchers investigated whether leucine-dependent mTORC1 activation occurs in vivo in mice and cultured murine macrophages. ApoE knockout mice were fed six meals over eight weeks, including a moderate-protein western diet, a high-protein western diet, a moderate-protein western diet with leucine and amino acids, more amino acids, and a nitrogen-adjusted version of moderate-protein plus amino acids.

They investigated whether serum amino acids were present in C57BL/6J mice weaned at three weeks old. In vivo, atherosclerosis-related investigations began at eight weeks using male mice of the given genotype fed varied diets.

The study identified leucine as the primary activator of mTOR signaling in macrophages, showing a threshold impact of consuming protein in large quantities and circulating leucine on monocytes or macrophages. Only protein above 25g per meal activates mTOR and has functional consequences. Ingestion of proteins above 22% of dietary energy needs triggers the harmful amino acid-mTORC1-autophagy signaling pathway in human monocytes and macrophages, which causes atherosclerosis in male mice. The study found a strong link between high protein consumption and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, indicating the possibility for diet advice and treatment measures.

The total amino acid content in plasma increased after having the high-protein liquid meal but not after drinking the low-protein one. During the three-hour postprandial interval, consuming the very high protein level boosted mTORC1 signaling and gradually reduced LC3 signal intensity, indicating mTORC1-mediated autophagy suppression. Western blot analysis showed a robust dose-dependent impact of leucine-mediated mTORC1 activation in HMDMs, as evaluated by phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p-S6K).

The team also found a dose-dependent threshold effect for mTOR-LAMP2 colocalization, suppression of autophagy (diminished LC3 puncta formation), and mitophagy (reduced colocalization of the mitochondrial marker COXIV with the autophagosome marker LC3). They observed significantly increased levels of four amino acids (Leu, Ile, Val, and Thr) in mice following protein gavage compared to control gavage.

Leucine was the most effective mTORC1 activator, with 1.6 g of protein per kg of gavage resulting in higher mTORC1 activation than 0.8 g of protein per kg of gavage. The study revealed that increased dietary leucine is both required and sufficient to produce the pro-atherogenic impact of a high-protein diet in vivo.

The study findings showed that high protein consumption, notably through elevated plasma leucine, might suppress mTORC1-mediated autophagy and atherogenesis in monocytes and macrophages, with critical clinical and public health implications.

Although higher protein consumption than the recommended allowance of 0.8 grams/kg/day is regarded safe, the study suggests caution and more clinical studies. Leucine was the primary amino acid responsible for activating mTOR in macrophages, and increasing protein consumption had a threshold effect on the detrimental signaling pathway.

A comprehensive examination is required to determine the accurate threshold between dietary protein benefits and negative health impacts.

Journal reference:

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A high-protein diet and elevation in the amino acid leucine may contribute to buildup of plaque in arteries - News-Medical.Net


Feb 21

Diets that mimic fasting could ‘reverse aging process’, study finds – Yahoo Lifestyle UK

New research has found fast-mimicking diets could slow down ageing. (Getty Images)

Diets that mimic fasting may be able to make a person "two-and-a-half years younger" by reducing their biological age, a new study has suggested.

Researchers found that a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) can lower insulin resistance, reduce liver fat, and slow immune system ageing.

It can also decrease the risks of age-related illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

When these benefits are combined, researchers found this fasting-like diet can result in a lower biological age for humans.

Created by a laboratory at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology in California, a fasting-mimicking diet is a five-day diet which is high in unsaturated fats and low in overall calories, protein, and carbohydrates.

It is designed to mimic the effects of a water-only fast while still providing the necessary nutrients.

The style of fasting is also supposed to make it easier for people to follow and stick to this kind of diet in practice.

"This is the first study to show that a food-based intervention that does not require chronic dietary or other lifestyle changes can make people biologically younger," senior author Professor Valter Longo explains.

"This is based on both changes in risk factors for ageing and disease, and on a validated method developed to assess biological age."

For the research Professor Longo and his team analysed the effects of the FMD in two clinical trial populations each with men and women between the ages of 18 and 70.

Participants underwent three to four monthly cycles of the FMD, during which they adhered to the diet for five days and then ate a normal diet for 25 days.

While sticking to the FMD, they ate things like plant-based soups, energy bars, energy drinks, crisps, and tea all of which were portioned out over the five days.

They were also given a supplement which provided high levels of minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.

Meanwhile, a control group was instructed to eat either a normal or Mediterranean-style diet which is what the FMD participants ate in their time-off.

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Results, published in the journal Nature Communications, revealed that those in the FMD group had lower risk factors for diabetes, including less insulin resistance and lower HbA1c levels.

They also had decreased abdominal and liver fat, which is associated with a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, and an increased lymphoid-to-myeloid ratio, which is an indicator of a more youthful immune system.

Further statistical analysis of both clinical studies also showed that the FMD participants had reduced their 'biological age' by two and a half years on average.

Biological age is a measure of how well a persons cells and tissues are functioning, as opposed to chronological age.

"This study has shown for the first time evidence of biological age reduction from two different clinical trials, accompanied by evidence of rejuvenation of metabolic and immune function," Professor Longo explains.

First author Professor Sebastian Brandhorst adds: "Our study also lends more support to the FMDs potential as a short-term, periodic, achievable dietary intervention that can help people lessen their disease risk and improve their health without extensive lifestyle changes."

The research team from USC Leonard Davis hopes that their findings will encourage more doctors across Europe and the US to recommend the FMD to patients with higher disease risk factors, as well as to typically 'healthy' people who may be interested in the other benefits including slowing the ageing process.

Previous research by Prof Longo has indicated that brief, periodic FMD cycles can promote stem cell regeneration and lessen chemotherapy side effects.

Meanwhile, trials on mice have found that the FMD can reduce the signs of dementia.

However, the new study was the first to demonstrate the effects of the FMD on insulin resistance, liver fat, immune system ageing, and biological age.

What is a fasting-mimicking diet?

FMDs, or Fasting Mimicking Diets, are diets designed to mimic the effects of fasting on the body without requiring complete abstinence from food.

"Typically, these diets involve significantly reducing calorie intake for a set period, usually ranging from three to five days, while still providing essential nutrients," explains gut health expert and owner of supplements brand Miracle Leaf, Agnieszka Kozlowska.

"The idea is to trick the body into a fasting state, prompting a range of physiological responses similar to those seen during prolonged fasting."

Kozlowska says one of the key benefits of FMDs is their potential to promote cellular rejuvenation and repair.

"When the body enters a fasting state, it initiates processes such as autophagy, where cells break down and remove damaged components," she explains. "This can help clear out old and dysfunctional cells, making way for new, healthier ones.

"By mimicking fasting, FMDs can stimulate these repair mechanisms, potentially slowing down the ageing process and promoting overall cellular health."

Another area where FMDs show promise is in supporting gut health.

"The gut microbiota, comprised of trillions of microorganisms, plays an essential role in digestion, immune function, and overall health," Kozlowska explains.

"Research suggests that FMDs can help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria by creating an environment that prevents harmful microbes, promoting the growth of beneficial ones," she continues.

"While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of FMDs, the preliminary evidence is promising."

Additional reporting SWNS.

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Diets that mimic fasting could 'reverse aging process', study finds - Yahoo Lifestyle UK


Feb 21

5 Sneaky Ways Diet Culture Might Still Be Messing With You – Self

So, youve read Intuitive Eating, youve listened to every episode of podcasts like Maintenance Phase and Food Psych, and youve sworn off MyFitnessPal and low-carb diets for life. Youve seen diet culture for what it is: A fatphobic, racist, elitist belief system that thrives off of keeping us all trapped in a cycle of body hate and disordered eating patterns. Thats awesome! Go you!

The thing is, you still live in this world, which means youre still surrounded by the same harmful messages youve come to loathe. And if youve been working toward food and body freedom for long enough, youve probably realized that divesting completely of diet culture isnt as easy as nodding along with your favorite podcasts and giving yourself permission to eat whatever you want.

As a dietitian who specializes in eating disorders, I work with a lot of folks who struggle to fully let go of restrictive food rules and the desire to control their body size. And I also see so many sneaky ways that diet culture can maintain its gripeven when a client is trying their hardest to opt out.

If youre still having a hard time making peace with food and your body, here are some things that might be keeping you stuck, according to dietitians.

Social media can be a very sneaky way for diet culture to continue influencing your life, Jessi Holden, a dietitian who takes a non-diet approach to food on her recipe blog The Kitchen Innovation, tells SELF. Constant exposure to idealized body images, weight change stories, or good/bad language around food, for example, could lead to or worsen body dissatisfaction, Holden says.

Its not just a matter of unfollowing diet gurus and image-obsessed fitness influencers (which you probably did long ago). Its about making sure youre seeing a diverse range of bodies in your feed, and that the food and nutrition content creators you followif you choose to follow any, which you dont have to, by the way!arent making you feel like the way you eat is somehow less than. Ive had plenty of clients who are deeply impacted by how pretty, colorful, and perfectly plated every food picture on Instagram looks, for example, even if those photos arent showing meals that are overtly diet-y.

The next time you open a social media app, take note of how you feel about your body before you start scrolling, then check in with yourself again afterward. If you notice that you feel worse, make it a point to unapologetically unfollow any accounts that put you in a diet-culture mindset. And while youre at it, try diversifying your feed by following creators in bodies of all different shapes and sizes.

Our food and beverage industry aligns its marketing strategy with timely fads, labeling foods and beverages as low calorie, fat-free, sugar-free, gluten-free, and more, Amy Goldsmith, RD, the founder of Kindred Nutrition, an eating disorder and sports nutrition practice in Frederick, Maryland, tells SELF. As a result, Its impossible to avoid these terms when youre at the grocery store. Even if youre not explicitly trying to eat lower-fat foods or cut back on sugar, for instance, it can be tough to shake the belief that items with less of certain nutrients (and more of others) are inherently better than their traditional counterparts.

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5 Sneaky Ways Diet Culture Might Still Be Messing With You - Self


Feb 21

Heart Health 101 – University of Alabama at Birmingham

Written by: Katherine Kirk Media contact: Anna Jones

A healthy lifestyle is about small changes over time that build upon each other.February is American Heart Month, but heart health is important all year round. Elizabeth Jackson, M.D., a cardiologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Cardiovascular Institute, says making small lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of heart disease and the use of medications to regulate health.

A healthy lifestyle is about making small changes over time that build upon each other. Jackson says it is never too early to start thinking about heart health.

Data shows that starting a healthy lifestyle at a young age can help reduce heart disease later in life, Jackson said.

Jackson says not every meal has to be perfect. Starting with one meal or one day of healthy eating may help build a healthy dietary pattern over time. Regardless of whether a patient has a history of heart disease, Jackson says, regular checkups and lifestyle changes are important.

Diet and physical activity are foundational to heart health, Jackson said. If medication for heart health is necessary, healthy diet and regular activity can amplify or enhance what your medication is already doing.

Restaurants can be places of anxiety for individuals trying to eat healthy due to a lack of options, portion size and not knowing the foods nutritional facts. Jackson says there are a couple of ways to navigate eating out.

Choose a restaurant that has more options and look at the menu ahead of time, so willpower doesnt always have to be there, Jackson said. In addition to choosing heart-healthy options at restaurants, I also recommend cooking at home to be able to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

When cooking at home, Jackson says, people have more control over which ingredients are included in the dish, and they can adjust these ingredients based on their preferences. Cooking at home also saves money. Each year, UAB Medicine partners with the American Heart Association to develop a heart-healthy recipe book filled with delicious, simple and affordable meals that everyone can make at home.

When it comes to suggesting a diet change for heart health, the Mediterranean diet is often discussed. While the Mediterranean diet is a good heart-healthy option, Jackson says there is no one size fits all type of diet and that it is important to look at the bigger picture to decide what is best for the patient.

Diet is personal, Jackson said. Not every diet aligns with the patients cultural heritage or lifestyle, so our goal as cardiologists is to work with the patient and tailor their diet to meet their specific needs. We also need to work with the patient on a plan for how they can stick to this diet and focus more on how to help them make small changes they can stick to.

Jackson says eating complex carbs and plant-based proteins, limiting red meat, and controlling portion sizes are the best ways to start eating for health. Incorporating these behaviors into at least one day of eating a week can benefit overall health.

Supplements can be a good way to assist individual health by supporting elements of your diet that are missing. However, Jackson says, getting nutrients through ones diet is the best way to get the nutrients the body needs since the supplement industry is not regulated.

Supplements are a billion-dollar industry, and unfortunately, it is not regulated like prescription drugs are, Jackson said.

Jackson recommends getting ones nutrients from their food by using the colorful plate method and making sure ones plate has a colorful pattern of fruits and vegetables.

Make sure your plate is colorful as different colored vegetables contain different nutrients, Jackson said. Vegetables such as carrots contain completely different nutrients than kale, so by trying to incorporate different color patterns into your meals, you can provide your body with a range of nutrients that it needs.

She warns against relying on supplements and powders to get protein since protein powders and bars can be very processed and have added sugars

For some people, multivitamins might be a good idea; but I suggest talking with a health care professional about the specific vitamins you may need, Jackson said.

Two of the scariest words in the realm of dieting are fats and sugar. However, Jackson says, this fear is unwarranted as a healthy amount of fats is needed for the body to run.

When it comes to fats, there are choices individuals can make that will benefit their overall health; Jackson says choosing liquid fats over trans fats is a good place to start. Trans fats were created to extend the shelf life of fats and can have negative effects on the body.

Liquid fats, also known as polyunsaturated fats, are better for you, Jackson said. You really want to stay away from trans fats, because they are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Saturated fats are often found in processed foods, and while Jackson says saturated fats are not as bad for the body as trans fats, people should still try to limit the amount of saturated fats they consume.

If youre having a piece of toast and you want butter on it, small amounts are OK if the other parts of your diet are more balanced, Jackson said. However, in general we want to try to get away from processed foods that have a lot of saturated fats in them.

Sugary foods and beverages should be minimized for heart health, Jackson said. If you are craving something sweet, having a piece of fruit can help you enjoy something sweet while watching your sugar intake.

Jackson says enjoying some chocolate once in a while is perfectly fine but warns against indulging in sugary drinks and sodas as they are the biggest culprit of sugar overindulgence.

Sugary drinks and sodas are often a major source of sugar and excess calories for people, Jackson said. They are easy to consume without realizing you are overindulging. Be especially careful with children and drinking too much juice.

A common misconception is that caffeine is bad for heart health, but Jackson says that coffee is OK in moderation. However, she recommends avoiding highly caffeinated beverages such as energy drinks.

Energy drinks tend to have a lot more caffeine and sugar and are more processed, Jackson said.

When it comes to drinking alcohol, Jackson says it is important to stick to moderate levels of drinking as heavy drinking is linked to poor health outcomes, including heart conditions. If one does choose to drink, she says it should be done in moderation and in combination with a balanced diet.

Vegetarianism and veganism are seen as very healthy ways of living. A common misconception is that people who are vegetarians and vegans do not get enough protein in their diets to be healthy. However, Jackson says this line of thinking is false. There are many ways to get protein that does not come from meat.

Diet changes should come with an evaluation of nutritional needs and how to keep them met. However, Jackson says there are plenty of ways to get protein from a plant-based diet.

The AHA recommends choosing healthy sources of proteins. Healthy proteins can be found in plant sources such as beans, peas, lentils and nuts.

If you are going to eliminate certain foods, you need to think about how it affects your nutritional composition as a whole, even if you are a meat-eater, Jackson said.

Physical activity is known to reduce risk for cardiovascular disease. Current recommendations for heart health are 100 to 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. However, Jackson says any movement can be beneficial.

Jackson says one of the best ways to incorporate physical activity throughout the week is to start with 10 minutes a day as this can still offer some heart-healthy benefits.

Physical activity does not always mean that you have to go to a gym, Jackson said. Start out with a 10-minute walk, or choose to park a little farther away from the entrance of a store. Maybe the next week, you try to get two 10-minute bouts of exercise in a day, which would give you 20 minutes of exercise, and just continue to gradually work your way up to where you are getting the recommended 150 minutes a week.

She also expressed the importance of physical activity when it comes to healthy aging.

Talk with your physician about what type of exercise is best for you, Jackson said. In addition to aerobic exercises, including exercises that help increase your strength and balance is also important since we lose muscle mass as we age.

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Heart Health 101 - University of Alabama at Birmingham


Feb 21

Revolutionary Study on Fasting-Mimicking Diet for Anti-Aging and Overall Health – Medriva

A revolutionary study led by the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has made a ground-breaking discovery. It suggests that adopting a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) can effectively reduce signs of immune system aging, insulin resistance, and liver fat in humans. This unique dietary approach could significantly decrease your biological age, making you seem two-and-a-half years younger.

The fasting-mimicking diet is a five-day diet plan that is high in unsaturated fats but low in overall calories, protein, and carbohydrates. It is meticulously designed to mimic the effects of a water-only fast while still providing the necessary nutrients your body requires to function optimally.

The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology conducted a thorough analysis of the diets effects in two separate clinical trial populations. Participants in the FMD group showed lower risk factors for diabetes, a significant decrease in abdominal and liver fat, and a more youthful immune system. Furthermore, statistical analysis revealed that these participants reduced their biological age by an impressive average of 2.5 years.

During the study, participants underwent three to four monthly cycles of the FMD. This involved adhering to the diet for five days, followed by a normal diet for the remaining 25 days of the month. The striking results were evident across all participants, underscoring the potential effectiveness of the FMD as a short-term periodic dietary intervention.

While the reduction of biological age is a significant outcome, the benefits of the FMD dont stop there. The diet has also shown potential in promoting stem cell regeneration and lessening the side effects of chemotherapy. Moreover, it has the potential to reduce disease risk and improve overall health without necessitating extensive lifestyle changes.

The research team is optimistic that their findings will encourage more healthcare professionals to recommend the FMD to patients with higher disease risk factors. They also hope that even those individuals deemed healthy would consider this dietary intervention for its potential health benefits.

In conclusion, the fasting-mimicking diet presents a promising solution for those seeking to reduce their biological age and enhance their overall health. The diets potential to rejuvenate metabolic and immune functions, coupled with its ability to reduce disease risk factors, makes it a viable dietary intervention worth considering. As always, its crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Revolutionary Study on Fasting-Mimicking Diet for Anti-Aging and Overall Health - Medriva


Feb 21

Wolves in Washington State: Where They Live, Risk to Humans, and Diet – AZ Animals

Wolves are powerful apex predators that live in packs with a fascinating social hierarchy. Despite being widespread in the past, wolves were extirpated from many areas. They now inhabit thirteen states within the United States, although the majority of the countrys wolves inhabit Alaska. However, populations are gradually recovering in many areas, including Washington. So, keep reading to learn about wolves in Washington State, including where they live and what they eat.

Washingtons wolf population is steadily increasing.

Armelle LL/Shutterstock.com

There are currently 216 wolves in Washington State, based on the figures from the latest official wolf count in 2022. These are comprised of 37 different packs, of which 26 feature successful breeding pairs. The figures were released in April 2023, and as of yet, there are no records available from the 2023 survey.

Washingtons wolf population has been increasing for the last fourteen years. The figures from this wolf count are an increase on the previous years, which found a population of 206 wolves that were located within 33 packs and included 19 pairs of breeding animals.

Wolves remain a federally endangered species in the western two-thirds of the state but are no longer federally protected in the remaining area. However, they are still considered to be a state-endangered species across the entire area, making it illegal to kill or harass them.

Wolves are highly adaptable animals and are capable of living in a variety of habitats, although they do tend to prefer to live in forests and mountainous regions. Most of Washingtons wolves live in the north and northeastern regions of the state, although there are a small number of packs in the southern half.

Wolves were once much more widespread across the state but were extirpated from the state by the 1930s. This was largely due to human-wolf conflict and the hunting of wolves over a long period of time. However, after being absent from the state for more than 50 years, wolves returned to the state.

Wolves were never officially reintroduced to Washington but have gradually recolonized in the state, having travelled across the border from neighbouring states. By 2008, it was confirmed that there was a pack in Okanogan County and that they had successfully given birth to cubs. The number of packs and wolves has continued to grow steadily in the state since then, and their range has gradually expanded. In particular, packs have recently recolonized in the South Cascades in the winter of 2022-2023.

Wolves are powerful predators they typically prey on large mammals.

AB Photography/ via Getty Images

Wolves are apex predators, which means that they are at the top of the food chain and have no natural predators. Their diet typically consists of large ungulates, such as moose, deer, and elk. However, if food is scarce then they will turn to smaller animals, such as rabbits, hares, and beavers.

Wolves are pack animals, and the structure of the pack is vitally important when hunting for food. By working together in a pack, wolves are much more likely to have a successful hunt than if they were working alone, particularly when they are hunting a larger animal. When it comes to hunting larger animals, the wolf pack will typically pursue the prey and then spread out to surround it before moving in for the kill.

Although wolves can be considered as having a somewhat opportunistic nature when it comes to their diet, they are actually incredibly important to the ecosystem. This is because they can keep the populations of prey animals in check. This not only helps to maintain an appropriate predator-prey balance, but it can also stop animals such as deer from over-browsing their habitat. This then allows the vegetation to recover and can prevent animals from starving. Additionally, wolves will often prey on sick and injured animals the weakest in the herd which keeps populations healthy and strong.

Wolves are not usually dangerous to humans unless they are threatened in some way.

Holly Kuchera/iStock via Getty Images

Although wolves are powerful predators, they are not typically dangerous to humans. Wolves are very shy and secretive animals and are scared of humans, much preferring to stay out of our way. There are no documented records of any wolf attacking a human in Washington State, and the risk of being attacked by one is very low. However, there are occasions when theres a greater risk of an attack if a wolf is threatened or provoked. Therefore, if you do encounter a wolf, its important to remember to remain calm. Never attempt to run away as the wolf will be more likely to give chase. Instead, you should stand tall but back away slowly.

Although the risk to humans is low, wolves do sometimes prey on livestock. There are several reports of livestock predation in the state, with one ranch reporting approximately 40 animals killed by wolves in a short period of time.

Many farms already try to minimize the risk of a wolf attack by implementing measures to deter them. These include carrying out lambing and calving in barns, using lights or noise to scare away wolves, using livestock guardian animals (dogs, donkeys, alpacas), and not turning out very young calves into the pasture. However, Washington State has just recently approved a pilot scheme which allows the owner of the livestock to shoot the first wolf that returns to the site of a livestock predation without the need for a permit.

The photo featured at the top of this post is slowmotiongli/Shutterstock.com

Original post:
Wolves in Washington State: Where They Live, Risk to Humans, and Diet - AZ Animals


Jan 19

Jeremy Allen White’s workout routine and diet plan – Lifestyle Asia India

Jeremy Allen White isnt just your next-door Hollywood heartthrob whose acting finesse is sweeping the award season and how hes also a big fitness enthusiast. The Bear star puts up a fair share of internet thirst, flaunting his toned and bulked-up physique that has us swooning! The actor recently underwent a massive physical transformation for his role in the long-anticipated wrestling flickThe Iron Claw. Jeremy, who plays a real-life wrestling icon, Kerry Von Erich alongside Zac Efron and Harris Dickinson, underwent a physical metamorphosis that got him completely shredded. From snippets of him jogging out in LA, a series of sweaty Instagram selfies to a bare-it-all Calvin Klein campaign Jeremy has captured the envy and adoration of all fitness enthusiasts. If youre ready to take your fitness game a notch higher, heres Jeremy Allen Whites workout routine to get you started.

To embody the wrestlers character convincingly, the star gained over 40 pounds of muscle. His workout was a perfect blend of outdoor circuits and heavy weightlifting. This was complemented by a high-calorie diet, integral in helping him gain the muscle. Without further ado, lets decode Jeremy Allen Whites fitness secrets and diet plan for you.

In a conversation with Esquire (via Sportskeeda), Jeremy stated how his fitness regime comprised of jump rope, followed by bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and dips. It not only helped him bulk up his muscles but boosted his overall functional fitness essential for his role as a wrestler.

Heavy lifting was at the core of Jeremys workouts. The workouts focused on squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, focusing on muscle growth over traditional cardio workouts. This intense routine was tailored for The Iron Claw, in which his character demanded massive strength and muscle mass. According to The Daily Mail, his training included a combination of running, skipping/jumping rope as well as the good old art of callisthenics. Heres a breakdown of his workout routine:

All of us can use some fresh air and sunshine while sweating it out and outdoor workouts are the best way to spruce up your mundane gym routine. You can replicate most of the gym exercises outdoors, without needing much creativity or imagination. Multiple reports state that Jeremy opts for a fast-paced run or cycling session. Outdoor exercises are a natural antidepressant as sunshine naturally increases serotonin, a hormone that fluctuates your mood. The act of exercising itself releases the feel-good hormone, endorphin.

It can also become a great social outing provided you involve your family and friends. Moreover, this team-building experience is absolutely free. Just make sure to lock in sun protection, a pair of good trainers and a water bottle.

For starters, you can begin your outdoor circuit with a three to five-minute warm-up, followed by stretching, squats, push-ups, leg raises, jumping jacks, burpees, dips or any other exercise of your choice.

Jeremy indulged in weightlifting exercises like bench presses, squats, deadlifts and more. Contrary to popular belief, lifting heavy weights doesnt automatically translate into big, bulky muscles. It takes a concerted effort over a good period of time for that to happen. Heavy weightlifting increases the power and strength of your muscles, which means that your everyday physical tasks get easier.

According to Mayo Clinic, strength training also helps you burn more calories even when youre not in the gym. But how? If you regularly lift weights, you get an afterburn a phenomenon where your body continues touse more calories in the hours following a workout. And by building more muscle mass, the number of calories you burn daily without exercise also increases. Additionally, strength training improves your ability to learn and think as you age. It prevents the risk of injury, improves endurance and fights ageing.

Before starting a heavy lifting program, check with your doctor if youre physically sound. Use proper form and pay close attention to your body to avoid injury. Its best to get in touch with a trainer as lifting weights isnt something to be taken lightly.

Were callisthenics your great-grandmother or grandfathers idea of working out in their younger days? While the concept of callisthenics cropped up in the late 19th century, the exercise has made a big comeback in the 21st century. For the unversed, callisthenics are low-resistance exercises which use your body weight rather than other equipment. Its basically resistance training with your own body weight. This kind of training exploits body weight via compound exercises like pull-ups, burpees, push-ups, lunges, squats, and crunches.

According to a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Psychology,high-intensity callisthenic exercises like burpees or mountain climbers boost cardiovascular health and endurance. Its a great way to build muscle, lose fat, and improve relative strength. Also considering its a very simple exercise with no fancy equipment necessary, involving quick moves you can do it at the beginner level and in the comfort of your home. From simple movements like a squat to advanced moves like pull-ups and muscle-ups everyone can do callisthenics based on their fitness levels.

To reap the maximum benefits of your workout, a healthy diet is important. The process of beefing up for The Iron Clawrequired Jeremy on ahigh-calorie diet. He told Esquire that he was eating all the time. Starting his day with waffles with almond butter for breakfast, the actor was eating turkey patties and avocado throughout the day. This diet was structured around maintaining a calorie surplus, so he could easily build muscle. It included cheat meals and more unrestricted eating on the weekend to steer clear of burnout.

This combination of strength training and a healthy balanced diet is how Jeremy achieved that drool-worthy body.

Will you try Jeremy Allen Whites workout and diet plan?

Hero image: Courtesy calvinklein/Instagram; Feature image: Courtesy ironclawmovie/Instagram

Jeremys workout plan is a combination of outdoor circuits and heavy weightlifting.

The actor has 1 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, owing to his role in The Bear.

See the article here:
Jeremy Allen White's workout routine and diet plan - Lifestyle Asia India



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