Short answer: We don’t really know how the universe was created, though most astrophysicists believe it started with the Big Bang.
Paul M. Sutter is a research professor in astrophysics at SUNY Stony Brook University and the Flatiron Institute in New York City. He regularly appears on TV and podcasts, including “Ask a Spaceman.” He is the author of two books, “Your Place in the Universe” and “How to Die in Space,” and is a regular contributor to Space.com, Live Science, and more. Paul received his PhD in Physics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2011, and spent three years at the Paris Institute of Astrophysics, followed by a research fellowship in Trieste, Italy.
On April 27, 4977 B.C., the universe was created, according to German mathematician and astronomer Johannes Kepler, considered a founder of modern science. Kepler is best known for his theories explaining the motion of planets.
Kepler was born on December 27, 1571, in Weil der Stadt, Germany. As a university student, he studied the Polish astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus’ theories of planetary ordering. Copernicus (1473-1543) believed that the sun, not the earth, was the center of the solar system, a theory that contradicted the prevailing view of the era that the sun revolved around the earth.
In 1600, Kepler went to Prague to work for Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, the imperial mathematician to Rudolf II, emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Kepler’s main project was to investigate the orbit of Mars. When Brahe died the following year, Kepler took over his job and inherited Brahe’s extensive collection of astronomy data, which had been painstakingly observed by the naked eye. Over the next decade, Kepler learned about the work of Italian physicist and astronomer Galileo Galilei (1564-1642), who had invented a telescope with which he discovered lunar mountains and craters, the largest four satellites of Jupiter and the phases of Venus, among other things. Kepler corresponded with Galileo and eventually obtained a telescope of his own and improved upon the design.
In 1609, Kepler published the first two of his three laws of planetary motion, which held that planets move around the sun in ellipses, not circles (as had been widely believed up to that time), and that planets speed up as they approach the sun and slow down as they move away. In 1619, he produced his third law, which used mathematical principles to relate the time a planet takes to orbit the sun to the average distance of the planet from the sun.
Kepler’s research was slow to gain widespread traction during his lifetime, but it later served as a key influence on the English mathematician Sir Isaac Newton (1643-1727) and his law of gravitational force. Additionally, Kepler did important work in the fields of optics, including demonstrating how the human eye works, and math. He died on November 15, 1630, in Regensburg, Germany. As for Kepler’s calculation about the universe’s birthday, scientists in the 20th century developed the Big Bang theory, which showed that his calculations were off by about 13.7 billion years. However, this theory is based on Kepler’s assumptions and interpretations of biblical chronology, and is not supported by modern astronomy.
We know that we live in an expanding universe. That means the entire universe is getting bigger with every passing day. It also means that in the past our universe was smaller than it is today. Rewind that tape far enough, and the physics suggests our universe was once an infinitely tiny, infinitely dense point — a singularity.
Most physicists think this point expanded out in the Big Bang, but because all known physics breaks down in the extreme conditions that prevailed in our universe’s infancy, it’s hard to say with confidence what happened in those earliest moments of the universe.
For most of the history of the universe, it was dotted with similar celestial objects as are present now — they were just closer together. For example, when our universe was less than 380,000 years old, the volume of the universe was about a million times smaller than it is today, and it had an average temperature of around 10,000 kelvins. It was so hot and dense that it was a plasma, a state of matter where atoms are ripped apart into protons, neutrons and electrons.
However, we encounter plasmas in many other situations in space and on Earth, so we have a pretty good understanding of how they work. But the farther back we go, the more complex the physics become. When the universe was just a dozen minutes old, it was an intense soup of protons, neutrons, and electrons, still governed by the same physics that we use to understand nuclear bombs and nuclear reactors.
If we look back even earlier than that, however, things get really sketchy.
When we try to make sense of the universe when it was less than a second old, we have no theory of physics that can cope with the insanely high temperatures and pressures the universe experienced. All of our theories of physics break down, and we have no understanding of how particles, forces and fields operate in those conditions.
Birthing the singularity
Physicists can chart the growth of the cosmos using Einstein’s general theory of relativity, which connects the content of the cosmos to its history of expansion. But Einstein’s theory contains a fatal flaw. If we follow general relativity to its ultimate conclusion, then at a finite time in the past our entire universe was crammed into a single, infinitely dense point. This is known as the Big Bang singularity.
The singularity is often framed as the “beginning” of the universe: But it’s not a beginning at all. Mathematically, the singularity at the Big Bang isn’t telling us that the universe began there. Instead, it’s telling us that general relativity itself has broken down, and has lost its predictive and explanatory power.
Physicists have long known that general relativity is incomplete. It cannot explain gravity at high strength or at small scales, known as quantum gravity. In other words, to fully understand the earliest moments of the universe, we need new physics.
Sadly, we currently lack such physics. We have several candidates for quantum gravity, like string theory and loop quantum gravity, but these theories have not been fully developed, let alone tested. But if either of those theories are correct, they can tell us interesting things about the early universe.
In the case of loop quantum gravity, the singularity is replaced with a finite-size chunk of space-time. In string theory, meanwhile, our universe originates from a “landscape” of possible universes. It’s also possible that our Big Bang exists as just one of an infinite series of universes, multiplying without end in a multiverse. Only further advances in theoretical physics will help sort out the murkiness of these possible ideas.
But there’s another problem: We may never know what caused the Big Bang. In its earliest moments, even our very conceptions of time and space break down. At such extreme scales, normal, everyday concepts like “beginning” and “before” may not even make sense.
The consensus among scientists is that human activities are indeed causing climate change. The primary human activity affecting the amount and rate of climate change is greenhouse gas emissions from the burning of fossil fuels. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine state that today’s global warming is different from past warming periods and is driven by human activities1. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) also emphasizes that human-induced climate change is causing widespread disruption in nature and affecting the lives of billions of people.
To address this, reducing emissions and taking action to adapt to climate change are crucial steps that need to be taken to mitigate the risks and impacts associated with a warming planet2.
The increase in carbon dioxide levels from pre-industrial levels of 280 parts per million to more than 410 parts per million today is mostly due to burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas1. This rapid increase in greenhouse gases is the main reason for the rise in global average temperature, which has been about 1.8°F (1.0°C) since the late nineteenth century3.
The scientific community doesn’t all agree on the core causes of climate change, and according to climate expert Willie Soon, humanity should look beyond Earth to find the source.
Many people think that it is “rising carbon dioxide that is the main factor … that affects climate change, and that is wholly untrue,” scientist Willie Soon says. According to Soon, the sun is a key source of climate change. (Photo: Southpict/Getty Images)
The Earth’s rotation around the sun affects the planet’s temperature, says Soon, a visiting fellow on the Science Advisory Committee of the Center for Energy, Climate, and Environment at The Heritage Foundation. (The Daily Signal is the news outlet of The Heritage Foundation.)
Glaciers, for example, “melted away because the sun started to get … brighter and provided more solar energy to the climate system,” according to Soon.
Throughout his career, Soon, a former researcher with the Center for Astrophysics-Harvard & Smithsonian, says he has sought to pursue the facts surrounding shifts in the climate because “science is not about belief.”
“Science is about data,” he said.
Many people think that it is “rising carbon dioxide that is the main factor … that affects climate change, and that is wholly untrue,” Soon says. “That is such a distorted view that I think it needs to be corrected.”
Soon joins “The Daily Signal Podcast” for part two of a three-part series discussing climate change. In part one, expert David Legates explained the history of climate change.
On today’s show, Soon explains why he thinks the sun is the source of the changing climate and how the sun affects the Earth’s cycles of warming and cooling.
The term “omnipresent” refers to the quality of being present everywhere at the same time. It’s often used in a spiritual or religious context to describe a deity who is universally present1. In philosophical discussions, omnipresence is not typically limited by time, meaning it encompasses past, present, and future.
So, when we say something is omnipresent, it’s not about being present only in the past or future, but rather about being present at all places at all times, transcending the usual limitations of time and space1. If you’re referring to a specific philosophical concept or context, please provide more details, and I’ll be glad to help further!
The concept you’re referring to seems to be related to philosophical presentism, which is the view that only present entities exist. According to this philosophy, there are no past or future entities; everything that exists is present1. This contrasts with eternalism, where all points in time (past, present, and future) are considered equally real2.
In philosophical presentism, the past and future do not exist objectively; they are not part of what is real. The past has already occurred and is no longer, and the future has yet to occur and thus does not yet exist. The only reality is the present moment. This view is supported by some interpretations of Buddhism and by philosophers like Saint Augustine, who likened the present to a knife edge between the perceived past and the imaginary future1.
On the other hand, eternalism posits that all points in time are real, so the past, present, and future all exist simultaneously, though we may not be able to perceive them as such2.
So, to answer your question, in the context of philosophical presentism, the “Ever present” is indeed only the present, with the past and future being unreal or non-existent. However, in eternalism, the “Ever present” would encompass all of time—past, present, and future—as all are considered real.
The concept of the universe being a hologram is part of a fascinating area of theoretical physics. The holographic principle suggests that all the information contained within a volume of space can be represented as encoded information on the boundary of that space1. This idea was proposed by physicist Juan Maldacena, who introduced the AdS/CFT duality, which posits that a universe with gravity can be described by a quantum field theory in fewer dimensions without gravity2.
This duality has been supported by various theoretical works and simulations over the years. For instance, physicists have used it to explore questions about black holes, the early universe, and the nature of spacetime itself2. The principle implies that our 4-D spacetime might be a projection from a lower-dimensional reality, much like a 3-D hologram emerges from a 2-D surface2.
While the holographic principle is a robust theoretical framework, it’s important to note that it remains a conjecture within the realm of theoretical physics. It has not been proven definitively, but it continues to be a valuable tool for physicists to understand complex problems in quantum gravity and string theory3.
So, while the universe as a hologram is not a confirmed fact, it is a significant concept in physics that has led to many important insights and discussions about the fundamental nature of reality.
Next time you hear a scientist saying something like “the more we know about the universe the less important we become,” beg to differ. The reality is precisely the opposite: The more we know about the universe, the more unique we become. What we do with this knowledge is, of course, a personal choice for each of us.
That’s a profound observation, and it resonates with a concept known as the knowledge paradox. As our understanding of the universe expands, we often uncover more questions than answers. Each discovery peels back a layer, revealing further complexities and mysteries. It’s like zooming into a fractal; the closer you look, the more intricate patterns emerge, each requiring explanation.
This paradox is beautifully encapsulated in a quote often attributed to Socrates: “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” It’s a humbling reminder that the pursuit of knowledge is an endless journey, and the universe is a vast, ever-expanding frontier filled with wonders beyond our current comprehension. 🌌
How big is the universe? Will it ever end? Why is so much of it made of mysterious dark matter and energy? See how mind-bending discoveries over the past 50 years have revolutionized our understanding of the universe.
Lyme disease itself is not a parasite; it’s an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. However, it is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, which are parasitic arachnids. The ticks act as vectors, carrying the bacteria from animal reservoirs like mice to humans.
You can be bitten by a Tick no bigger than a D on a Dime and feel the impact the rest of your life.
I tried the Buhner protocol for a few years and an anti-inflammatory diet helps.
It helped some. It was difficult to maintain and very costly. Especially as a single mom.
But now I am doing Ivermectin, Fenbendazole, Praziquantel, a few herbs, and binders
Yes, herbs are great for immune support. I also take some powerhouse probiotics for my gut and immune support. Are you familiar with Plexus Probio5?
I use a supplement called Ease for inflammation.
With a formula that features New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel Powder, Plexus Ease supports your body with naturally powerful compounds to ease discomfort like joint pain. Ease also includes high quality enzymes, such as Bromelain and Serrapeptase. You’ll also benefit from the powerful antioxidants found in Turmeric.
Beat out NSAIDs in third-party testing for pain and inflammation.
I am finally feeling good after not feeling good since I was 12. It’s still a journey, nothing is an immediate fix, but I know what I am doing is helping each day. So, I’m sticking with what has been helping me for the last 3 years.
The average person has around 40 trillion microbes in and on their body all the time. And about 400 trillion viral particles.
The average person will swallow 100 billion microbes in a 24-hour period.
“The bacterial population in the mouth alone is around six billion, which is comparable to the human population of planet Earth”
People come into contact with around 60,000 types of “germs” each day.
An average cell phone is covered in bacteria: 25,127 per square inch.
And people “trade” bacteria (and viruses) all the time, via all kinds of cell-cell contact, including body fluids.
I took 12 mg Ivermectin daily as part of my Lyme treatment.
Before I found my LLMD, I was self-medicating with Fenbendazole from Morgellons Disease groups pushing it. Fenbendazole did not help me improve at all and shot my liver panel up high. I would ditch the Fenbendazole and take the Ivermectin.
Research medicinal Mediterranean Oregano oil for Lymes and ALS
Dana Bee i believe it is excellent also have used it with excellent effect. i do believe it is also a high polyphenol so would keep it at least an hour away from thiamine therapy probably best actually to take at night as thiamine works throughout hours so on, and only do the amount for it for therapeutic recommendations which you find in their studies some polyphenols rutin and quercetin berries red cabbage and red onion are high polyphenols and they want you to avoid these when on thiamine therapy or limit them . reference beriberi in emergency situations WHO green cabbage and white are all good
highdosethiamine.org this is with vitamin b1 thiamine hcl proven safe and effective for disease of thiamine deficiency neurodegeneration this is neurologist Costantini’s work excellent patient video page this is with Pd and dystonia but would apply to all forms of neurodegeneration disease as these are the markers for beriberi which is the medical term for thiamine deficiency disease cerebral and drye
Methylene blue is a repurposed prescription medicine that has many health benefits. Methylene blue
kills Bartonella and Borrelia,
improves fatigue and mitochondria dysfunction,
fixes cognitive dysfunction and brain fog,
lifts depression, and
treats methemoglobinemia (this is what it is approved to treat).
It crosses the blood brain barrier, helps decrease systemic and specifically neuro inflammation, and will hit bartonella infection as well as Borrelia. PLUS there is research that supports it if it is helpful for neurodegeneration and mitochondrial function.
Ticks Can Carry & Transmit & Reactivate Many Infections
Try To Find A Lyme Disease Experienced Dr & Ask To Be Tested For Every Strain Of Borrelia (Lyme) & Every Strain Of Co-Infections Including Systemic Staph/Strep & AnaPlasmosis/ToxoPlasmosis & Chlamydia – EBV/Herpes 6/ Cytomegli & Other Viruses & Other Infections & Candida/Fungal/Yeast Overgrowth & Mold & Vitamin B1 Deficiency & Detox & Take Binders A Little While After Detox & A Few Hours After Everything Else
They Make Patches For Anxiety – Severe Anxiety/PTSD & Others
Also Search On Amazon For ‘ Rantherm ‘ Detox Foot Pads – Place Pads On Entire Feet From Toes To Heels – They Can Help To Remove A Lot Of Toxins
Best Wishes
Please Go Very Slow & Don’t Over Tax Or Overstress Your Body
I am thinking of purchasing a rife machine. I do not have a lot of money to waste so any advice from personal experience would be appreciated. Thank you in advance .
I have BCX Ultra from Hymbas. I have a contact version but if I were to buy again I would buy the model that has also a contactless feature. I like that it is small and needs no computer plus it is easy to operate. It doesn’t do body scans, just sends out radio-like waves via footplates, electrodes and plasma wands. The contactless option is a plasma bulb that emits waves that reach a close perimeter through air.
If you’re looking to explore the benefits of sound therapy, the WAVwatch could be a great tool to begin with. It’s designed to be a non-invasive and natural method to support overall well-being1. Whether you’re dealing with stress, seeking to boost your immune system, or just want to enhance your self-care routine, the WAVwatch might provide the therapeutic benefits you’re looking for. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new health-related regimen.
Here is my take on it (take it as my personal and not necessarily correct advice): if you buy a rife machine run 2-3 times per day mainly tick borne pathogen frequencies (Lyme aka Borrelia, Bartonella (one of main culprits for neuro symptoms, multiplies every 12 h, run twice per day!), Babesia, Ehrlichia plasma (and other rickettsia-type bacteria – very harsh and very underrated and many are infected!), toxoplasma, mycoplasma and some other tick borne pathogens like Yersinia, Tularemia, Brucella, plus EBV and other herpesviruses. Run Lyme, Bart every day twice plus alternate the others.
The physics behind it is that a rife machine emits radio frequencies that oscillate these pathogens at their mortal oscillatory rate to DEATH.
Run some parasite frequencies, but I’m personally not sure if these frequencies can oscillate these creatures to death, so take an antiparasitic.
Don’t waste your time in running rife frequencies for “als, parkinson, fibro, lupus, ms” that are NAMES. There is no physics behind it, a frequency cannot oscillate “ALS aka name” to death.
So concentrate on tick borne pathogens at least 2 times per day.
You can add “detox”, “immune support” etc frequencies later, although I’m not sure how it works from a physics point of view.
So concentrate on Lyme and Co in the first months or until you see results. This seems to work for my neuro Lyme symptoms (all body stiffness, dizziness plus all the jazz).
WEB27 tissue salts for your health. This website is devoted to cell salts. The cell salts were developed by Dr. Wilhelm Heinrich Schuessler, a German doctor from the 19th century. The healing-method of the cell salts
Like most functional medicine treatments, it would involve supplements. Many of the ones that most already are recommended to take. Magnesium, B vitamins, Omega 3, etc. We have one of those O2 shops by us too that is open to the public. Oxygen therapy, basically. And they have lyme disease on their list of things it helps. Anyway, here is a link for you https://www.healthline.com/health/lyme-disease-natural-treatment#hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy But would love to know what you are experiencing that makes you worry about lyme disease. Are you going to have a Western Blot
I would go with Vibrant Wellness the results for that were similar to igenex and igenex was $2600 vibrant was $650
They are now using Vibrant labs for testing instead of Ingenex. He said the testing is very accurate and a lot cheaper than Ingenex. I personally have used Ingenex trust them… they are super expensive though, seeing a Lyme Literate Integrative Medicine (rydocs.com) would be best because they test you based on the symptoms you have.
I do not have als but I do have lyme and co-infections. My mom was diagnosed with als and is positive for Lyme and co infections. We went to the same llmd and these are the test numbers he ordered for us and said they were the most accurate in his opinion. He had us do single tests instead of the Panels.
Test # 325 and #335 the immunoblot for Borrelia Burgdorferi. This tests for an active infection as well as an old infection.
They now offer an immunoblot test for Bartonella since we have been there and I would go with that. The test numbers are #374 and #384. He also had us take #289.
Test #345 and #355 for Tick borne relapsing fever.
Timestamps 0:10 My experience with Lyme disease 1:10 About Lyme disease 1:26 The thing nobody does for Lyme disease 1:48 Lyme disease natural remedies In this video, we’re going to talk about Lyme disease and what to do naturally for this condition. I had Lyme disease at one time. It was weird. I didn’t see any tick bites. But, I took a remedy that detoxed me. I felt so sick and then developed Lyme disease symptoms. I believe the detox may have activated the Lyme disease that was dormant in my body. I took an antibiotic, and I also took advantage of a few natural remedies for Lyme disease as well. You need to support your immune system while you take the antibiotic. These Lyme disease remedies may help. Lyme disease natural remedies: 1. Garlic 2. Onion 3. Chlorella 4. Olive leaf extract 5. Colloidal silver Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio: Dr. Berg, age 57, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan, and is the Director of Dr. Berg Nutritionals. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media.
A protein found in human sweat may protect against Lyme disease
◦°´*⚘⚘.¸ Lyme Disease¸.⚘⚘*´°◦
Story by Anne Trafton •
Functional analyses of SCGB1D2 protein and Borrelia burgdorferi.Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, affects nearly half a million people in the United States every year. In most cases, antibiotics effectively clear the infection, but for some patients, symptoms linger for months or years. Researchers at MIT and the University of Helsinki have now discovered that human sweat contains a protein that can protect against Lyme disease. They also found that about one-third of the population carries a genetic variant of this protein that is associated with Lyme disease in genome-wide association studies. Human sweat contains a protein that may protect against Lyme disease, according to a study from MIT and the University of Helsinki. About one-third of the population carries a genetic variant of this protein that is associated with Lyme disease in genome-wide association studies.
It’s unknown exactly how the protein inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, but the researchers hope to harness the protein’s protective abilities to create skin creams that could help prevent the disease, or to treat infections that don’t respond to antibiotics. “This protein may provide some protection from Lyme disease, and we think there are real implications here for a preventative and possibly a therapeutic based on this protein,” says Michal Caspi Tal, a principal research scientist in MIT’s Department of Biological Engineering and one of the senior authors of the new study.
Lyme disease is a serious bacterial infection that affects nearly half a million people in the United States every year. While antibiotics can usually clear the infection, some patients struggle with lingering symptoms for months or even years.
Researchers from MIT and the University of Helsinki have made an exciting discovery that could lead to new ways to prevent and treat Lyme disease. They found that human sweat contains a protein that can protect against the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
About one-third of the population carries a genetic variant of this protein that is less effective at inhibiting the Lyme disease bacteria. “This protein may provide some protection from Lyme disease, and we think there are real implications here for a preventative and possibly a therapeutic based on this protein,” says Michal Caspi Tal, a principal research scientist at MIT.
The researchers aren’t sure yet exactly how the protein works to stop the bacteria’s growth, but they plan to investigate whether applying it to the skin could prevent Lyme disease infection. They also hope to explore using the protein as a treatment for infections that don’t respond to antibiotics.
“We have fantastic antibiotics that work for 90 percent of people, but in the 40 years we’ve known about Lyme disease, we have not budged that,” Tal says. “Ten percent of people don’t recover after having antibiotics, and there’s no treatment for them.”
Hanna Ollila, a senior researcher at the University of Helsinki, is also a senior author of the study, which was published in Nature Communications. The lead author is Satu Strausz, a postdoc at the University of Helsinki.
The researchers say that even people with the protective version of the protein can still develop Lyme disease, and they shouldn’t assume they’re immune. But this discovery offers hope for new ways to prevent and treat this persistent and debilitating illness.In vivo imaging system (IVIS) quantification of SCGB1D2 prophylactic effect on intradermal infection with Bb. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45983-9
Lyme disease is most often caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi. In the United States, this bacterium is spread by ticks that are carried by mice, deer, and other animals. Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a distinctive bulls-eye rash. Most patients receive doxycycline, an antibiotic that usually clears up the infection. In some patients, however, symptoms such as fatigue, memory problems, sleep disruption, and body aches can persist for months or years. Related video: Sweat Could Help Protect You Against Lyme Disease (The Weather Channel) – Search (bing.com)
Tal and Ollila, who were postdocs together at Stanford University, began this study a few years ago in hopes of finding genetic markers of susceptibility to Lyme disease. To that end, they decided to run a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on a Finnish dataset that contains genome sequences for 410,000 people, along with detailed information on their medical histories.
This dataset includes about 7,000 people who had been diagnosed with Lyme disease, allowing the researchers to look for genetic variants that were more frequently found in people who had had Lyme disease, compared with those who hadn’t. This analysis revealed three hits, including two found in immune molecules that had been previously linked with Lyme disease. However, their third hit was a complete surprise—a secretoglobin called SCGB1D2. Secreto Globins are a family of proteins found in tissues that line the lungs and other organs, where they play a role in immune responses to infection. The researchers discovered that this particular secretoglobin is produced primarily by cells in the sweat glands. To find out how this protein might influence Lyme disease, the researchers created normal and mutated versions of SCGB1D2 and exposed them to Borrelia burgdorferi grown in the lab. They found that the normal version of the protein significantly inhibited the growth of Borrelia burgdorferi. However, when they exposed bacteria to the mutated version, twice as much protein was required to suppress bacterial growth. The researchers then exposed bacteria to either the normal or mutated variant of SCGB1D2 and injected them into mice. Mice injected with the bacteria exposed to the mutant protein became infected with Lyme disease, but mice injected with bacteria exposed to the normal version of SCGB1D2 did not. “In the paper we show they stayed healthy until day 10, but we followed the mice for over a month, and they never got infected. This wasn’t a delay, this was a full stop. That was really exciting,” Tal says.
Preventing infection
After the MIT and University of Helsinki researchers posted their initial findings on a preprint server, researchers in Estonia replicated the results of the genome-wide association study, using data from the Estonian Biobank. These data, from about 210,000 people, including 18,000 with Lyme disease, were later added to the final Nature Communications study. The researchers aren’t sure yet how SCGB1D2 inhibits bacterial growth, or why the variant is less effective. However, they did find that the variant causes a shift from the amino acid proline to leucine, which may interfere with the formation of a helix found in the normal version. They now plan to investigate whether applying the protein to the skin of mice, which do not naturally produce SCGB1D2, could prevent them from being infected by Borrelia burgdorferi. They also plan to explore the protein’s potential as a treatment for infections that don’t respond to antibiotics. “We have fantastic antibiotics that work for 90% of people, but in the 40 years we’ve known about Lyme disease, we have not budged that,” Tal says. “Ten percent of people don’t recover after having antibiotics, and there’s no treatment for them.”
“This finding opens the door to a completely new approach to preventing Lyme disease in the first place, and it will be interesting to see if it could be useful for preventing other types of skin infections too,” says Kara Spiller, a professor of biomedical innovation in the School of Biomedical Engineering at Drexel University, who was not involved in the study. The researchers note that people who have the protective version of SCGB1D2 can still develop Lyme disease, and they should not assume that they won’t. One factor that may play a role is whether the person happens to be sweating when they’re bitten by a tick carrying Borrelia burgdorferi. SCGB1D2 is just one of 11 secretoglobin proteins produced by the human body, and Tal also plans to study what some of those other secretoglobin may be doing in the body, especially in the lungs, where many of them are found. “The thing I’m most excited about is this idea that secretoglobin might be a class of antimicrobial proteins that we haven’t thought about. As immunologists, we talk nonstop about immunoglobulins, but I had never heard of a secretoglobin before this popped up in our GWAS study. This is why it’s so fun for me now. I want to know what they all do,” she says. More information: Satu Strausz et al, SCGB1D2 inhibits growth of Borrelia burgdorferi and affects susceptibility to Lyme disease, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45983-9 – Search Videos (bing.com)
WEB a young girl from Brooklyn and a Duke University scientist are diagnosed with a disease said to not exist: Chronic Lyme disease. The Quiet Epidemic follows their search for answers, which lands them in the middle of a …
I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sickis a powerful documentary that chronicles three families and a WNBA MVP who are fighting for survival against Lyme disease. The film highlights the physical, emotional, and financial toll the disease takes on their lives, as well as the urgent need for greater awareness, testing, and treatment options. Through their stories, I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sickis a call to action, to understand and support the millions of people worldwide who are living with this devastating illness.
This gripping documentary exposes the relentless fight of patients against Lyme disease and chronic illness.
When I first saw the Lyme disease documentary Under Our Skin in 2008, I had to leave the theater. Not only were my neurological symptoms of tick-borne illness overwhelmed by the audio-visual stimulation of a big-screen movie, but moreover, the stories of physical and emotional havoc of Lyme were too close to my own. I was too sick, too afraid that I would be stuck forever in the world portrayed in the film.
When I saw the new Lyme disease documentaryI’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick—which touches on the same physical, emotional, and financial turmoil of Lyme depicted in Under Our Skin—I reacted very differently. I could relate to so much of what the patients in the film are going through, but from a distance, now that I am in remission.
What got me from point A to point B on the 15-year journey between the two documentary releases is exactly what I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick makes a call to action for: adequate and appropriate support.
Through the stories of the Mode family (pictured left),
Ash Baker, the Cleworth family, and WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne, I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick showcases exactly how devastating Lyme disease can be on people from all walks of life. Whether struggling to access treatment or able to secure the best care, patients from small-town Maine to the pro basketball court are equally frustrated when their illness is invalidated. As Delle Donne says, “We all just want to be heard. We all come from different walks of life. We all have our own struggles.”
Sadly, many tick-borne illness patients are not heard by physicians, family and friends, and insurance companies. As I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick shows, the impact of this dismissal can lead to treatment delays, financial ruin, family strife, distrust in the medical system, and mental illness. Psychiatrist Robert Bransfield, MD says, “It’s tragic that we have all this suffering that could be prevented.”
“It’s just as much a human rights issue as it is a scientific issue.
To pretend it doesn’t exist is a crime.”
Physicians and researchers including Monica Embers, PhD, John Aucott, MD, Mark Soloski, PhD, Steven Phillips, MD, and Sean McCloy, MD, MPH, MA give credence to the science of tick-borne illness, especially in its chronic form, and also to the unnecessary suffering caused by ignorance of the facts. Dr. Phillips notes, “It’s just as much a human rights issue as it is a scientific issue. To pretend it doesn’t exist is a crime.”
I was told by countless people that my symptoms didn’t exist, and then, when diagnosed, that my illness didn’t exist. Like the patients in both Under Our Skin and I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick, I fought for validation along with my health.
And I was lucky. Despite an eight-year battle for diagnosis, a multi-year convalescence including one complete relapse, and debilitating symptoms that derailed my life plan, I survived. I had the help of family and friends. I had access to medical care.
Though it took a while to get it, I had the support I needed to eventually move from surviving to thriving. From walking out of a movie theater to watching a documentary with gratitude for my own renewed health. But, as I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick demonstrates, too many patients are not as lucky.
Dr. Bransfield notes that people with chronic infections are more likely to be suicidal, explaining that with Lyme disease, there is a social-psychological component of mental illness but also a physiological part, due to neuroinflammation causing a shift in brain chemistry. Former GLA CEO Scott Santarella speaks poignantly about those lost to suicide during Lyme disease, and the patients in the film reveal their own dark thoughts.
I went to equally dark places during my lowest points of illness, and like Ash Baker, was able to use creative expression as a way to “bring me back to life.” In addition to coping mechanisms, patients need hope—even if they’re incremental flickers of light in a long, dark tunnel, as Santarella describes—and they need physical, emotional, and financial support. Perhaps most importantly, they just need to be believed.
I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick helps show the real story of life with Lyme disease. It offers validation to patients, but moreover, it shows people who can help patients—doctors, insurers, friends, and family members—exactly how support or lack thereof can make or break a patient’s journey.
Lyme Disease is wreaking havoc on millions of lives.
Over 476,000 new Lyme disease cases emerge each year, yet many medical professionals often dismiss or overlook this debilitating condition. Lyme patients frequently feel lonely and isolated, struggling to receive proper support. I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick is a Lyme disease documentary that chronicles the daily lives of three families and WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne, in their fight for survival against this insidious illness.
The Mode Family in Northern Maine survives on $150/month with limited access to treatment.
Ash Baker, an artist in Maryland, has a dedicated doctor helping her get treatment covered by insurance.
The Cleworth Family has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on Atty’s treatment, accessing the world’s best doctors and care.
Elena Delle Donne has battled Lyme disease symptoms throughout her career, fighting not only the disease but for recognition and support.
This film highlights the physical, emotional, and financial struggles caused by Lyme, emphasizing the need for greater awareness, reliable testing methods, and accessible treatment options. Expert doctors, researchers, and advocates provide insights into the science and politics surrounding Lyme disease.Through these inspiring stories, I’m Not Crazy, I’m Sick serves as a call to action to understand and support the millions worldwide living with this devastating illness.
Produced by Sypher Studios and Fieldhouse Productions, the documentary is shot by Emmy award-winning cinematographer Clair Popkin (Free Solo) and directed by Elle Brooks-Tao.
The Kirstie Ennis’ story has been well documented, from being featured on the cover of ESPN The Magazine’s “Body” issue and in People magazine, to appearing on Tamron Halland being featured in a Sports Emmy nominated segment on HBO’s Real Sports.
Kirstie Ennis’s journey commenced with the loss of her leg in Afghanistan, yet it’s far from its conclusion. Enduring 48 surgeries and multiple amputations, the ex-Marine Sergeant, at 32, surpasses many lifetimes’ achievements. Ennis, inspired by her Marine parents, enlisted at 17. Defying notions of disability, she excels, aiming to conquer the Seven Summits by 2023, advocating and fundraising along the way. Beyond her athletic feats, Ennis holds three Master’s degrees and pursues a Doctorate in Education. Founder of The Kirstie Ennis Foundation, she champions causes and serves in various nonprofits. A savvy entrepreneur, she invests in startups and practices real estate. Honors adorn her, including the ESPY’s Pat Tillman Award and induction into the International Sports Hall of Fame as its youngest member.
Kirstie Ennis, a Milton, Fla. native, Afghanistan war veteran and amputee, — A Marine Corps veteran who turned to outdoor sports and launched a nonprofit foundation after losing her leg in combat was honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2019 ESPYS. After surviving a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, Sgt. Kirstie Ennis underwent more than a dozen surgeries addressing trauma to her brain, spine and shoulder. When doctors decided to amputate her left leg above the knee, Ennis embraced outdoor activities as she recovered, walking 1,000 miles across Britain for a charity event and earning three gold medals in swimming at the Warrior Games.
She’s currently working to summit all seven of the world’s highest peaks and said she “does more now on one leg than she ever even dreamed of doing on two.” Ennis also launched the Kirstie Ennis Foundation with the mission of “improving the quality of life of individuals and families” and providing “education, opportunity, and healing in the outdoors.”
“After being medically retired from the Marine Corps due to my injuries sustained overseas, I have dedicated my life to serving others in a different way. To receive the Pat Tillman Award and to be associated with a true American hero is a tremendous honor,” Ennis said in a news release.
“It has taken a village to get me to this point in my life, and I would not be where I am now without the amazing people surrounding me. To me, this is a symbol of community and what it means to pay it forward.”
After joining the Marine Corps to serve others, Sergeant Ennis was injured when her helicopter crashed on her second deployment to Afghanistan and she was forced into medical retirement. After struggling through over 40 surgeries, including an amputation, she was in search of a way to be of service again. In the early stages of her recovery, Kirstie relied heavily on outdoor therapy to get her life back. Thanks to her experiences Kirstie does more now on one leg, than she ever dreamed of doing on two.
In 2017, Kirstie committed to her Climbing for a Cause initiative – climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents while raising funds and awareness for charity. Kirstie has turned the concept of “disabled athlete” on it’s head, proving how capable she still is. While she continued to summit the tallest mountains in the world, Kirstie developed the goal to share outdoor recreational therapy with underserved communities and created The Kirstie Ennis Foundation. Kirstie started holding group and individual outdoor experiences and she found a new way to serve.
Kirstie wants to provide opportunity in the outdoors, and ultimately opportunity for the rest of peoples lives. The possibilities in the outdoors are endless. “I never wanted people to ever feel the way I did- alone, lost in recovery. I wanted to give people hope, community, and a reason to show up. I wanted to teach people the sports that saved my life and actually give them the tools and resources to use them as therapy.”
Kirstie Ennis is someone to be admired, but she is too humble to realize the impact she makes on the world at large. It started with her willingness to serve our country at the age of 17, her drive to find one of the toughest fields in the United States Marine Corps for women and the dedication she put forth to earn the rank of Sergeant.
Unfortunately, Kirstie suffered severe injuries when her helicopter crashed on her second tour in Afghanistan and she was forced into medical retirement due to the physical injuries she sustained. This was where she faced her defining moment, she could succumb to the injuries or she could fight to find her place in the world again. She has been fighting ever since.
Kirstie found healing in the outdoors through sports and wanted to share that with others. This prompted her to start a nonprofit organization and bring the healing of outdoor recreation and nature to those in need. She found a way to be of service again, she has created a community, to give people hope, and a reason to show up. She has done that through The Kirstie Ennis Foundation.
Through TKEF Kirstie has held 25 recreational clinics bringing snowboarding to women veterans, rock climbing to amputees, mountain biking to amputees and veterans, adaptive off-roading to a childhood cancer survivor, Sit-Ski lessons to paralyzed combat veterans, and the opportunity for many adaptive athletes to climb the highest peaks in South America. Her nonprofit has a 92% IRS rating meaning .92 cents of every dollar donated goes towards the programming.
Kirstie is not in it for the money or fame, she is in it to make a difference and give others the tools and resources to use them as therapy.
Since 2017, Kirstie has committed to her Climbing for a Cause initiative- climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents while raising funds and awareness for charity. She has completed six of the seven peaks and inspires with every step as she has often been the first female above-knee amputee to do it. She has had two attempts on Everest, but has had to turn around for her and her team’s safety.
Kirstie Ennis was almost at the peak of Mount Everest, then turned back: NPR
She is vulnerable and open in sharing her experiences to show others that we can all face obstacles and struggle, but ultimately it is about our ability to keep taking the next step. Kirstie travels all over the country giving motivational talks and is endeared by so many because she is honest, open and her willingness to help anyone that crosses her path shines through.
She responds to every person that reaches out to her and leads with doing all she can to create opportunity and healing for everyone she meets. She has won several awards for her humanitarian work such as the Yolanda King Higher Ground Award at the King Center, an award for individuals who carry on the legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
It isn’t just what she does for others, as admirable as that is, it is what she does for herself that sets the example for so many young women. Since joining the Marine Corps, she has earned several degrees and her doctorate in an effort to better herself. She became a firefighter to apply her knowledge and be of service in her community. Kirstie has competed as a Paralympic snowboarder and previously took fifth in the world in women’s snowboard cross and just earned two bronze medals in the Para Snowboard FIS World Cup last month. She sets the bar high for women but is humble in wanting to see other women, other amputees, other veterans standing where she has stood, and doing it better.
You can see her impact on truly anyone that her story finds. The people she has supported have made a difference in their own communities just from the light that Kirstie sparked. She has helped a female veteran create a nonprofit to help veterans in Arizona, others to build businesses all across the country. There is a new adaptive community in Nashville that she inspired because she taught a retired amputee Marine who needed a new purpose: adaptive rock climbing. She has become the hero of many young ladies who have faced adversities by writing handwritten notes of encouragement and support.
She sets the example and many are following in her footsteps, but what is most admirable is that she does it all to make the world a better place, to inspire and show others they have what they need to persevere. That is the light we need to see in this world.
Kirstie Ennis’s story may have begun when she lost her leg after her helicopter went down in Afghanistan, but it certainly doesn’t end there. After 48 surgeries and the amputation of her leg first below and then above the knee after a life-threatening infection, the former Marine Sergeant has accomplished more at 32 years old than most people have achieved in their lifetimes.
Ennis enlisted in the Marine Corps when she was only 17 years old, inspired by her parents who were also Marines. Ennis has turned the concept of “disabled athlete” on its head, proving how capable she still is, whether it’s on one leg or two. She hopes to complete the Seven Summits by climbing the highest peak on every continent by 2023 to fundraise and raise awareness for a variety of causes.
What people might not know about Ennis: she’s completed three Master’s degrees and is currently working to complete her Doctorate in Education. Kirstie is the President and Founder of The Kirstie Ennis Foundation, an Ambassador and program lead for the nonprofit Building Homes for Heroes and sits on the board of directors for Merging Vets and Players. She has invested in several small startup businesses ranging from hair salons, cross fit gyms, and restaurants. She also earned her license as a real estate advisor and is based at Engel & Volkers in Carbondale, Colorado.
After returning home from Everest in summer of 2019, Kirstie was the ESPY’s Pat Tillman Award recipient. She received the 2020 Higher Ground award at the Martin Luther King Family Salute to Greatness gala and is the youngest inductee ever into the International Sports Hall of Fame.
My views from the top of the world. This was truly the first time I realized what I was doing… the magnitude, challenge, difficulty, altitude, everything. I refrained from sharing too much of my Everest expedition last year because I really wanted to share it with you in my documentary, Standing Tall.With the premiere happening tomorrow (finally because of COVID), I’ve cried a couple of times at how hard my climbing and production/postproduction team worked for this.
On the mountain, we were a small team — but editing this, we were an insanely small team. Much love to my cinematographer, co producer, and climbing partner extraordinaire @robgowler and my executive producer and queen editor @juneandchili! The film encompasses so much — why and how I climb as an amputee, scaling the tallest mountain in the world, and what’s to come at the Center for Disabled Children’s Assistance in Kathmandu Standing Tall — be proud of whatever your mountain is! #leftlegless#standingtall#everest#nepal#himalayas#adaptive
“Hello, everyone. I’m sorry it’s taken me so long to reach out to you. I miss you all so much and I can’t wait to be on stage talking to you in person. As you know, I’ve always been an open book and I wasn’t ready to say anything before, but I’m ready now,” an emotional Dion said in an Instagram video at the time. “I’ve been dealing with problems with my health for a long time and it’s been really difficult for me to face these challenges and to talk about everything that I’ve been going through.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, stiff-person syndrome is a rare disorder of motor function characterized by involuntary stiffness of axial muscles and superimposed painful muscle spasms, which are often induced by startle or emotional stimuli.
“I have hope that I’m on the road to recovery. This is my focus and I’m doing everything that I can to recuperate,” she said via Instagram. “Take care of yourselves. Be well. I love you guys so much and I really hope I can see you again real soon.”
Focusing on Her Recovery
“I have a great team of doctors working alongside me to help me get better and my precious children, who are supporting me and giving me hope,” Dion noted in her December 2022 Instagram video. “I’m working hard with my sports medicine therapist every day to build back my strength and my ability to perform again, but I have to admit it’s been a struggle.”
While a source later told Us Weekly that the diagnosis came as a “shock” to Dion, they noted she had not lost “her fighting spirit and is comforted that at least she knows exactly what she’s dealing with now and there’s comfort that she can alleviate some of the symptoms by getting treatments that are specific for this condition.”
Having Her Loved Ones by Her Side
“Her kids have been her rock … the twins are very mature for their age and René-Charles checks in and dotes on his mom all the time,” the insider went on to share. “Celine received this diagnosis fairly recently; she’s been suffering the symptoms for quite some time, but it always baffled her what was wrong.” (Dion shared son René-Charles and twins Nelson and Eddy with late husband René Angélil, who died of throat cancer at age 73 in January 2016.)
Her sister Claudette also opened up about how the family has been helping the performer. “When I call her and she’s busy, I speak to my sister Linda who lives with her and tells me that she’s working hard. She’s listening to the top researchers in the field of this rare disease as much as possible,” she told Le Journal de Montreal in 2023. “We trust her. It’s innate to her, she’s disciplined in every area of her life … We can’t find any medicine that works, but having hope is important.”
Claudette continued: “I honestly think that she mostly needs to rest. She always goes above and beyond, she always tries to be the best and top of her game. At one point, your heart and your body are trying to tell you something. It’s important to listen to it.”
In an August 2023 interview with Hello! Canada magazine, Claudette called Dion a “strong woman” and noted that “she’s doing everything to recover.” She told the outlet that while there is little she and the rest of Dion’s family “can do to support her, to alleviate her pain, they are “crossing our fingers that researchers will find a remedy for this awful illness.”
The Illness Is Progressing
“She works hard, but she doesn’t have control of her muscles,” Claudette told Canadian magazine 7 Jours of her sister’s condition in December 2023. “What pains me is that she has always been disciplined. She always worked hard.”
Claudette revealed that it’s a “dream” of both Céline and the family that she will “return to the stage” one day. “In which state? I do not know,” Claudette confessed. “The vocal cords are muscles, and the heart is also a muscle. This is what [gets to] me. Since it’s one case in millions, scientists didn’t do that much research, because it didn’t affect that many people.”
Céline’s sibling explained that while,
“There are some who have lost hope because [it] is a disease that is not known,” many fans have continued to reach out with well wishes. “People tell us they love her and pray for her. She receives so many messages, gifts, and blessed crucifixes,” Claudette said.
“This last couple of years has been such a challenge for me, the journey from discovering my condition to learning how to live with and manage it, but not to let it define me,” Céline shared in a January 2024 statement while announcing her Prime Video documentary,
I Am: Céline Dion.
“As the road to resuming my performing career continues:
I have realized how much I have missed it, of being able to see my fans,” she added. “During this absence, I decided I wanted to document this part of my life, to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition, to help others who share this diagnosis.”
Words of Encouragement
Céline commemorated International Stiff Person Syndrome Day in March 2024 by sharing a rare Instagram photo of herself and her kids. “Trying to overcome this autoimmune disorder has been one of the hardest experiences of my life, but I remain determined to one day get back onto the stage and to live as normal of a life as possible,” she captioned the post. “I am deeply grateful for the love and support from.”
She concluded her message by sending her “encouragement and support to all those around the world that have been affected by SPS,” adding, “I want you to know you can do it! We can do it!”
The Fight Goes On
Céline offered insight into her stiff person syndrome battle in an May 2024 Vogue France cover story interview. “I haven’t beat the disease, as it’s still within me and always will be. I hope that we’ll find a miracle, a way to cure it with scientific research, but for now I have to learn to live with it. So that’s me, now with Stiff Person Syndrome,” she told the magazine.
The singer went on to note that she undergoes “athletic, physical and vocal therapy” five days a week in addition to working on “my toes, my knees, my calves, my fingers, my singing [and] my voice.”
She added: “I have to learn to live with it now and stop questioning myself. At the beginning I would ask myself: why me? How did this happen? What have I done?
Is this my fault?”
Céline stated that although “life doesn’t give you any answers,” you must keep living it.
“I have this illness for some unknown reason. The way I see it, I have two choices. Either I train like an athlete and work super hard, or I switch off and it’s over, I stay at home, listen to my songs, stand in front of my mirror and sing to myself,” she stated. “I’ve chosen to work with all my body and soul, from head to toe, with a medical team. I want to be the best I can be. My goal is to see the Eiffel Tower again!
More than a year after announcing her health issues were due to stiff person syndrome, a rare and incurable neurological and autoimmune condition that causes severe muscle spasms and stiffening in the limbs — and in Celine’s case issues with her Vocal Cords — she’s in a fight for her life. Her struggle is something she swore she would never talk about, but sharing helps her connect with her beloved fans.
After canceling her World Tour, her future as an entertainer remains uncertain. People who suffer from SPS may not be lucky enough to have the means to have the best doctors and treatments as she does. What’s even greater is I have the inner strength in me to try and overcome. Celine is working hard to improve her body — and her mind. Five days a week I undergo athletic, physical and vocal therapy as she must learn to live with the debilitating condition.
Agonizing Rehab
Resisting negativity is a huge component of her approach to battling this condition, which affects fewer than 5000 in the United States. “She is putting on a brave front and doing her best to stay upbeat because he believes a positive attitude in adversity is a key to a happy life.” Celine may not overcome SPS, but she has learned to accept it. As my diagnosis sunk in. the singer realized she had a choice to make.
“Either I train like an athlete and work super hard or I switch off and it’s over,” she said, “I’ve chosen to work with all my body and soul, from head to toe with a medical team.’
She admits she’s had her dark days “At the beginningI would ask myself Why me? Why anybody? Why did this happen? What have I done? Is this my fault? What I learned if life doesn’t give you answers you only get to live it.
Then I told myself I have this disease for some unknown reason. In those early months Celine beat herself up a lot realizing she had to cancel a World Tour. Then she realized she had a lot to be thankful for and she is grateful she’s able to tell her story. In a new documentary I AM: Cleine Dion — described as a love letter to fans which will debut June 25 on Prime Video.
The five-time Grammy Winner gave the filmmaker unprecedented access to her life for more than a year to capture how she’s coping with the physical and mental repercussions of Stiff Person Syndrome to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition and help others who share this diagnosis. In the footage, says a source, she laughs, she cries, she sings. It’s a very emotional raw look at her life now.
Valentine’s Day this flower choked off a mum we had on the Southside of the House.
Then on my mother’s 95th birthday on April 5th it was out in all its splendor and mom thought it was the most beautiful flower she had ever seen in her life. And her thoughts were that I never saw a flower like that one in my lifetime. SO I searched the internet and found it to be a “Purple Illusion.” A powerful affirmation that my father is still beside her in all her years.
What chokes off a flower and makes a purple illusion grow in its place
In a more poetic sense, the phrase could be describing a situation where something vibrant and unexpected replaces something else that has faded or been suppressed. If you’re looking for a creative interpretation or a specific context, feel free to provide more details!
Here’s a poem inspired by the phrase “chokes off a flower and makes a purple illusion grow in its place”:
In a garden where the wildflowers sway,
A peculiar event unfolds by the light of day.
Where once bloomed a mum, so vivid and fair,
Now lies a vision, purple, floating in the air.
A mystical force, unseen and untold,
Chokes off the bloom, its petals fold.
In its stead, a purple illusion does grow,
A spectacle of nature, a magical show.
The illusion, a spike of Veronica’s hue,
Stands where the mum once reached for the dew.
Its color so deep, a story it weaves,
Of life’s constant change, as one believes.
Though the mum has faded, its beauty spent,
The purple mirage brings a new enchantment.
For in every ending, there’s a start anew,
A reminder that change can bring wonders, too.
So let the garden of life constantly transform,
As illusions grow where flowers once performed.
For every bloom that withers, in time’s grand dance,
A new shade of wonder is given a chance.
I hope this poem captures the essence of transformation and the beauty that can arise from change. Here’s how flowers can impact your spiritual journey:
Fostering Intellectual Growth: Purple flowers inspire you to pursue knowledge and wisdom relentlessly.
Enhancing Spiritual Awareness: They encourage a deeper connection with your inner self and the universe.
Promoting Conscious Enlightenment: These blooms serve as a reminder to stay open to the lessons life teaches you, facilitating a journey towards enlightenment.
Embrace the wisdom and spirituality that purple flowers bring into your life.
It’s as if these flowers have the power to unlock the doors to your imagination, urging you to explore uncharted territories of creativity. They become muses for your art, poetry, or whatever form your creative expressions take. Moreover, they encourage you to delve into dream exploration, making your nightly journeys not just restful, but also a source of inspiration.
You’ll find that with their presence, your creative projects are imbued with a depth and richness previously untapped.
Signifying Mystery and Magic
Delving into the world of purple flowers, you’ll uncover layers of mystery and magic that resonate deeply within your spirit. These blooms aren’t just a feast for the eyes; they carry profound meanings, especially when delving into the realms of the occult and enigmatic symbolism.
Occult Practices: Purple flowers are often associated with mysticism and the occult. They’re believed to enhance psychic abilities and spiritual connections.
Enigmatic Symbolism: The color purple itself is symbolic of the unknown. It represents the mysteries of the universe, beckoning you to explore deeper spiritual truths.
Gateway to the Unseen: These flowers act as a bridge to realms beyond our understanding, inviting you to embrace the magic and mystery that lies just beyond the veil of the visible world.
Promoting Calmness and Serenity
Aspect
Benefit
How it Helps
Color Hue
Calming Effect
Reduces stress by calming the mind
Presence
Serene Environment
Encourages a peaceful space for relaxation
Scent
Aromatherapy
Supports mental health by promoting calmness
Enhancing Spiritual Connection
Purple flowers don’t just beautify your space; they also deepen your spiritual connection, inviting a sense of the divine into your everyday life. By integrating these vibrant blooms into your surroundings, you’re not only enhancing the visual appeal but also fostering a more profound spiritual awareness.
Here’s how they can help you connect on a deeper level:
Encourage Inner Peace: Surrounding yourself with purple flowers promotes tranquility, aiding in the pursuit of inner peace.
Inspire Mindful Practices: Their presence serves as a gentle reminder to engage in mindful practices, deepening your spiritual journey.
Cultivate a Sacred Space: Use them to create a dedicated area for meditation or prayer, enhancing the spiritual quality of your environment.
Embrace the serene beauty of purple flowers to enrich your spiritual path.
Reflecting Transformation and Change
Beyond enhancing spiritual connection, purple flowers also symbolize the beauty of transformation and change in your life. These vibrant blooms remind you that every phase of your existence is marked by growth stages. Like a purple flower unfurling its petals, you too are constantly evolving, moving through cycles of personal renewal.
They’re not just pretty sights; they’re powerful symbols of your journey, highlighting the importance of embracing change. As you gaze upon a field of purple, let it reinforce the idea that transformation isn’t something to fear. It’s a natural, beautiful process, integral to your development.
Embrace each moment of change as an opportunity for growth, allowing the essence of purple flowers to guide your path towards personal renewal.
Conclusion
Purple flowers serve as more than mere visual delights; they carry profound symbolism. These blooms remind us of our inherent nobility, encourage wisdom, and ignite our creative spirit.
They embody the essence of mystery, provide a sanctuary of serenity, and act as conduits to the spiritual realm. By embracing these symbols of transformation, we embark on a journey towards self-discovery and personal growth.
What might these vibrant petals reveal about your path?
While exploring the mystical aspects of purple flowers, it’s also important to recognize their power to bring peace and serenity into your life. Their vibrant hues are more than just a feast for the eyes; they’re a balm for your mental health. By integrating purple flowers into your surroundings, you’re setting the stage for stress relief and a tranquil mind.
I’m Nina, and I’m very passionate about spirituality. Exploring the depths of the soul and connecting with the divine has always been my source of inspiration. Join me on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace through my writing.
Beyond its earthly implications, purple delves into the spiritual realm, linked to the crown chakra and intuition. It facilitates a connection to higher states of consciousness, amplifying one’s spiritual journey and understanding.
In the realm of creativity, purple plays a pivotal role. It stimulates the senses, ignites intuition, and provides the tranquility essential for insightful observations. This fusion of sensory awakening and quiet contemplation fosters creativity, making purple an ideal color to nurture artistic expression. Furthermore, purple embodies transformation, portraying strength, courage, and resilience. It signifies the ability to embrace change, adapt, and endure, symbolizing the transformative journey of life. Balancing its depth, purple also symbolizes femininity, characterized by playfulness, whimsy, and irreverence.
Psychological and Emotional Associations of Purple
Purple is a color that is often associated with psychological and emotional meanings.
This section will explore how purple can affect mood, energy, and personality.
Purple and Mood
Purple is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body. It can help to reduce stress and anxiety, and promote feelings of relaxation and tranquility. This is why it is often used in meditation and other spiritual practices.
At the same time, purple can also be energizing and uplifting. It can help to boost creativity and inspire new ideas. This is why it is often used in artistic and creative endeavors.
Purple and Energy
Purple is also associated with energy and vitality. It is believed to stimulate the imagination and enhance mental clarity. This is why it is often used in brainstorming sessions and other activities that require focus and concentration.
At the same time, purple can also be calming and soothing. It can help to reduce tension and promote a sense of inner peace. This is why it is often used in relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation.
The color purple is associated with a variety of meanings, including wisdom, creativity, royalty, power, ambition, and luxury. It can also represent magic, extravagance, peace, pride, independence, and wealth. As with other colors, purple is the subject of color psychology, which suggests that colors can have a powerful impact on moods and even behaviors.1
Each color is thought to have its own effect, but the feeling that each color produces can vary based on experience and culture. Like other colors, purple can lead to differing feelings, emotions, and associations. Learning the color purple meaning and effects can help you understand why you may feel the way you do when you see it.
Purple Meaning in History
The feelings that the color purple evokes are often due to cultural associations. Because purple is so strongly associated with royalty, people often perceive it as being a very regal color. These associations with royalty, as well as wealth, stem from the fact that the purple dye used in ancient times was very rare and extremely expensive.2
The resources needed to create a dye in this color were much harder to come by since purple is uncommon in nature, and much more costly. So only the elite could use purple dye. These associations with extravagance and aristocracy persist to this day.
The color purple became associated with wealth and royalty because, oftentimes, the rich were the only individuals who could afford clothing and other household items that were dyed purple.
Around 1200 B.C.E., the city of Tyre (along the coast of ancient Phoenicia) began producing purple dye by crushing the shells of a small sea snail.3 The resulting color became known as Tyrian purple and was so well known it was mentioned in Homer’s “Iliad” and Virgil’s “Aeneid.” Alexander the Great and the kings of Egypt also wore clothing colored with the famous Tyrian purple.
This connection with royalty was not just restricted to ancient times. Purple was the color of choice for the Purple Robe of Estate worn by Queen Elizabeth II on her way back to Buckingham Palace following her coronation in 1953.4
Some of the symbolic meanings and associations with the color purple include:
Creativity
Emotionality
Enlightenment
Femininity
Imagination
Inspiration
Mystery
Rarity
Royalty
Spirituality
People often describe this color as mysterious, spiritual, and imaginative.5
Purple also represents wisdom and spirituality.6 Its rare and mysterious nature perhaps causes it to seem connected to the unknown, supernatural, and divine.
Different shades of purple have different spiritual meanings. For instance, light purples are associated with light-hearted, romantic energies, while darker shades can represent sadness and frustration. In some parts of Europe, purple is associated with death and mourning.
Courage and Bravery
In the U.S., the Purple Heart is among the highest honors for bravery in military service. The award, originally called the Badge of Military Merit, was created in 1782 by George Washington to give to soldiers for commendable action. The color represents courage and bravery.7
Personality
While by no means scientific, liking purple might mean that you have positive feelings about some of the main associations of the color. So if purple is your favorite color,
It might signify that you have an artistic, thoughtful, and intuitive side.
Amethyst
Lavender
Lilac
Mulberry
Orchid
Plum
Puce
Pomegranate
Royal purple
Violet
Wine
You might also enjoy thinking about spiritual issues and the meaning of life. Of course, it might just mean that it is your favorite color due to your unique, individual associations, And experiences. Shades of Purple
Since purple does not often occur in nature, it can sometimes appear exotic or artificial. For this reason, it tends to be quite a polarizing color. People tend to either really love purple or really hate it.8
Visually, purple is one of the most difficult colors to discriminate against. It also has the strongest electromagnetic wavelength, being just a few wavelengths up from x-rays and gamma rays.9 For this reason, it is often used in visual illusions such as the lilac chaser illusion.
In writing, the phrase “purple prose” is sometimes used to describe writing that is extremely imaginative or even prone to exaggeration, hyperbole, or outright lies.
When discussing color meaning, it’s also important to recognize the role that various biological factors play in perceiving it. Several factors affect how the brain perceives the color purple, such as vision, light, and a person’s interpretation of what the color represents.10
Additional factors that can contribute to how a person perceives color are its hue, its level of saturation or purity, and how bright or dull it is. All these play into the frequency, wavelength, and energy associated with the color, which also changes how the eye and, subsequently, the brain perceive it.
Responses to the color purple can vary considerably from one person to the next. However, many feel that this color seems royal yet mysterious.
Notice how purple is used in the image that accompanies this article.
Consider how the color purple makes you feel. Do you associate purple with certain qualities or situations? Recognizing how you interpret purple’s meaning helps you understand why you may respond to it in a certain way.
NOW, do you see the shade of purple in this picture Below.
What Harrison Butker shared to the college graduates in his commencement address at Benedictine College on May 11 was his beliefs and opinions of today’s world.
Much like the divisive remarks short line sins being said every day and in late night from the big mouth chicks on The View and their plummeting 2.5 million viewers and what is being told by Stephen Cobert to his 2.95 million viewers and the Jimmy’s (Fallon’s 1.43 million Kimmel’s 2.27 million, of Late Night) practically wishing Trump Dead which USATODAY, MSNBC, CNN OR CBS says nothing about.
Whereas the ratings for the 2024 Women’s College Basketball national championship game between South Carolina and Iowa averaged 18.7 million viewers, peaking at 24 million on ABC & ESPN in April.
Shows you how many truly liberal viewers (Not many) we have in our country.
My take from this speech and what I saw and heard wasn’t ill will to women.
Harrison Butker just said women should embrace their role as a homemaker.
Andy Reid shows he’s clueless about misogyny with his reaction to Harrison Butker speech
Opinion by Nancy Armour, USA TODAY
Harrison Butker is a religious zealot so, while offensive, what he said in his now-infamous commencement address shouldn’t have been much of a surprise.
Asked on Wednesday if he was concerned Butker’s comments might cause a rift with the women who work for the Kansas City Chiefs, the coach replied, “I don’t think he was speaking ill to women.”
Butker told the women graduating from Benedictine College that they’d been fed “diabolical lies,” and then went on to suggest their one true purpose was to be broodmares. He railed against the evils of birth control and abortion because, again, women have no use beyond having kids. And God forbid we should be allowed to decide what is best for ourselves and our bodies!
He spoke wistfully of the days when men had primacy and women knew their place – “we set the tone of the culture and when that is absent, disorder, dysfunction and chaos set in” – and urged male graduates to “fight against the cultural emasculation of men.”
If making abundantly clear how little value we have isn’t speaking ill to women, I’d hate to see what it would take to tip Reid over the edge. Advocating for a Taliban-style government? Taking away our right to vote or make our own financial decisions?
“He has his opinions and we all respect that,” Reid said.
Even when they’re wholly disrespectful to women.
Distasteful and ill-informed as they are, of course – Butker has the right to his opinions — I appreciate that Reid and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes were trying to keep the peace in the locker room with their “we don’t have to agree but we have to respect everyone’s opinions” bothsiderisms.
But there is a difference between saying Butker has the right to his opinions and trying to pass those opinions off as some minor disagreement. Butker wasn’t railing about whether there should be a tax on plastic bags or why it’s taking so long to get high-speed internet to rural America. He was taking aim at a woman’s right to self-determination & propagating the real diabolical lie, that women exist only for the service and convenience of men.
“One of our concerns was the assertion that being a homemaker is the highest calling for a woman,” the sisters of Mount St. Scholastica said in a statement last week.
“We sisters have dedicated our lives to God and God’s people, including the many women whom we have taught and influenced during the past 160 years,” the nuns continued. “These women have made a tremendous difference in the world in their roles as wives and mothers and through their God-given gifts in leadership, scholarship, and their careers.”
The Supreme Court’s decision that overturned Roe vs. Wade has jeopardized the lives and health of thousands of women. There is also one horrifying story after another of women developing sepsis, needing hysterectomies and even dying because they are no longer entitled to basic health care.
And that “masculinity” Butker champions?
Violence against women remains appallingly high and even more appallingly disregarded. As we were reminded by that devastating video of Cassie being chased down and beaten by Diddy, it still takes visual evidence for a woman to be believed when she says she was physically or sexually assaulted.
Reid doesn’t live in that world and will never have to, so he can be oblivious to the misogyny of Butker’s speech. But women cannot. We live it, each and every day, and it’s unsettling to know Butker would reverse what progress has been made and take us back to the days when we had no standing, no voice, no worth.
Butker wasn’t just “speaking ill” to women with his views.
Healing and a feeling of personal wholeness only occur when the mind, body, and spirit are in balance. Balancing them all is necessary for a happy and fulfilled life. And in moments of crisis—especially in moments of crisis—it is vital for you to be vigilant in protecting that balance.
All three are connected: the mind, body, and spirit.
Weakness or imbalance in one of these can negatively affect the others. For example, severe emotional stress of the mind can cause high blood pressure and other illnesses in an otherwise healthy body. Similarly, physical illness or injury can cause depression in a usually healthy mind.
Healing intention is a conscious mental choice to improve your health or the health of another. It includes the expectation of improved well-being and the hope that the desired health goal can be reached. It also includes the understanding of personal meaning in your life and work, even when those two worlds may seem blurred during a quarantine.
Ultimately, healing intention includes the belief that healing and well-being will occur. If you don’t truly believe that you can be healed, or if some part of you is holding onto the disease or condition, you might disrupt or limit your own inherent capacity to heal on a subconscious level. Don’t underestimate yourself! By developing healing intention, you set the stage for healing to occur.
What Can I Do to Develop Healing Intention?
Awareness
Awareness addresses the question “How do I feel?” It helps you learn what your body is telling you and to connect what you think about to who you are.
You can become aware of your body’s subtle signals such as changes in energy level or mood. Bring these thoughts and feelings to your conscious mind. This allows you to change behaviors that don’t make you healthier. You can also learn new skills to change your automatic responses. Physical symptoms are messages from your body, telling you how it is doing and what it needs.
Some people turn to active practices like jogging, yoga, or even repeating a single word that makes them feel “centered.” Others use religious prayer, practices, and services. You can also just take a few moments to be quiet or to meditate.
Intent
Once you know how you feel, it’s essential to know what you want. If a health crisis or other situation changes your life from what you planned, this can be challenging. But it is important to create new goals and plans. These may be different, but they can also be meaningful and fulfilling.
On a spiritual level, once you connect with your inner self, you can direct your intention to bring this sense of peace and healing to yourself or others in your life.
Reflection
The story you tell yourself about your life is powerful. It can help you understand the central themes of your life and find meaning in them. When your sense of meaning in life changes, it can lead to feelings of distress. Getting that sense of purpose back is important for feeling healthy in your body and mind.
Meaning and purpose help you deal with emotions such as loss and grief, hope and despair, and joy and sadness. They allow you and your loved ones to accept the new normal, find a sense of feeling as well as the possibility to control your outlook on life.
Writing in your journal, writing stories or poetry, doing art, working with someone who has been in the same situation as you, or talking to a hospital chaplain might help you consider questions of who you are.
Try to answer these questions:
Who am I?
What is my purpose?
How do I fit into my family, my community, my life?
What are my spiritual beliefs?
If you have an illness or pain, think and write about the meaning of the illness or pain in your life. Reflection may help you to understand some of the central themes of your life and find meaning in them.
Experiencing Personal Wholeness
Personal wholeness is the feeling of well-being that occurs when your body, mind, and spirit are in harmony and balance. You can develop mind-body practices that support well-being and recovery from illness.
In fact, there are techniques that you can learn called mind-body practices that once you learn them, you can do anywhere—which right now is probably at home. These encourage you to tap into the connection between your thoughts and your physical responses in a positive way. Research has shown that these practices can be effective in reducing the negative effects of stress.
The key is to try and commit yourself to develop a mind-body practice. If you are unable to take an online class or attend a virtual workout, take advantage of one of the mind-body examples Healthy Journeys, or any number of videos on Youtube, like this one.
By adopting one, or more, of these exercises into your routine, you’ll be one step closer to balance and developing real healing intention. This is a conscious choice, so it is important to try and remain disciplined but by simply understanding the role healing intention and personal wholeness can play in your life right now, you can begin to feel the impact as we all continue to work through this challenging time.
In the quest for longevity and the elixir of everlasting youth, the world has turned its gaze to the remarkable regions known as “Blue Zones.” These enclaves of vitality and well-being have ignited curiosity and wonder across the globe — and it’s time to delve into their secrets.
Blue Zones are those magical corners of the world
Where people seemingly defy the aging process. They possess a playbook for life that involves a harmonious blend of healthy living, strong communities and a sense of purpose that rivals a New Yorker’s determination to catch a cab in the rain.
The story of Blue Zones begins with researchers Gianni Pes and Michel Poulain, who stumbled upon the first of these remarkable locales. But it was the indefatigable Dan Buettner who took the baton and ran with it, identifying these Blue Zones while diving deep into their secrets of a long, healthy life.
In a world where fast food and sedentary lifestyles often take center stage, there are pockets of the globe where residents are not only living longer, but also thriving in the process. Enter these regions where centenarians are not the exception, but the norm.
The Sardinian secret: where centenarians roam
Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Sardinia, Italy, the first Blue Zone unveiled its timeless secrets. Here, male shepherds are the undisputed champions of longevity, their daily routines including traversing mountainous terrain and feasting on plant-based fare.
But it’s not just about diet and exercise in Sardinia; it’s about strong family bonds that permeate the culture.
When it comes to living a long, healthy life, the people of Sardinia have cracked the code. This enchanting Italian island is home to some of the world’s oldest and healthiest individuals. So, what’s their secret?
At the core of general Sardinian longevity is the classic diet, a wholesome blend of nature’s bounty. Whole-grain bread, hearty beans, garden-fresh vegetables, an abundance of fruits and in some regions the unique touch of mastic oil. But it doesn’t stop there; Sardinians also eat pecorino cheese crafted from grass-fed sheep, packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Meat? Reserved for special occasions and Sundays.
In Sardinia, family isn’t just a word; it’s a way of life.
Strong family bonds also ensure that every member is cared for, a potent defense against depression, suicide and stress. Research shows that those living in such nurturing environments enjoy improved mental well-being and overall life satisfaction.
Grandparents additionally hold a cherished role in Sardinian society. They offer love, childcare, financial support and a wealth of wisdom. Their influence motivates the younger generation to uphold traditions and strive for success, contributing to healthier, more well-adjusted and longer-lived children. It’s a recipe for a population-wide life-expectancy boost.
As for those Sardinian shepherds, they know the value of a good walk.
Covering 5 miles a day, their cardiovascular health thrives, along with improved muscle and bone metabolism. No need for joint-pounding marathons or triathlons. And don’t forget the daily glass or two of red wine.
Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) are starchy root vegetables that are a staple food source in many areas of the world. Though potatoes are the most-consumed vegetable in the United States, they’re often considered unhealthy due to their high carbohydrate content and use in the fast food industry.
However, potatoes have many nutritional benefits. They provide an array of essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium and fiber. They also contain antioxidants and other protective plant compounds.
All potatoes can be a healthy choice when cooked using methods that preserve their nutritional value. Varieties like purple, red, and sweet potatoes stand out due to their high nutrient content, but preparation is an important factor in how healthy potatoes are in general.
1. Purple Potatoes
Purple potatoes are packed with beneficial plant compounds, including anthocyanins (a type of antioxidant). Anthocyanins are polyphenol plant pigments that give foods like fruits and vegetables their purple, blue, or red colors. In addition to giving purple potatoes their saturated color, anthocyanins benefit health by protecting cells from damage and reducing inflammation, both of which can help lower chronic disease risk.
Research shows that people who consume diets high in anthocyanin-rich foods, such as purple potatoes, have a lower risk of certain health conditions, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.1
Purple potatoes may be a better choice for blood sugar control than other potato varieties because of their high polyphenol content. This is because pigmented potatoes have been shown to have a lower effect on blood sugar levels after meals than yellow and white potatoes.2 Purple potatoes are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 3.5-ounce (about 100 grams, or 2/3 cup) uncooked serving of purple potatoes:3
Potassium: 337 milligrams (mg) or 14% of the Daily Value (DV)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture website (USDA) does not include specific information about vitamin B6 and vitamin C content, but purple potatoes are a rich source of both.45
Prep tip: Try baking purple potatoes with olive oil and sprinkling them with salt and pepper for a simple and delicious side dish.
2. Red Potatoes
Red potatoes are an excellent source of flavonoid antioxidants like quercetin, kaempferol-rutinose, catechin, and rutin. Red potatoes contain twice the amount of flavonoids as compared to white potatoes.6They’re also a rich source of several nutrients, including vitamin C and potassium.
Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 3.5-ounce serving of cooked red potatoes:7
Calories: 87
Protein: 2.3 g
Carbohydrates: 19.6 g
Fiber: 1.8 g
Potassium: 545 mg or 12% of the DV
Vitamin B6: 0.212 mg or 12% of the DV
Vitamin C: 12.6 mg or 14% of the DV
Like purple potatoes, red potatoes are rich in vitamin C. One 3.5-ounce serving provides 14% of your daily needs for this critical nutrient. Red potatoes are also a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and support heart health. Consuming adequate potassium is essential for blood pressure control because potassium helps the body excrete sodium through the urine. It also relaxes blood vessels.8
Prep tip: Try pairing red potatoes with other high-potassium foods like beans and lentils in soups and grain dishes for an extra nutritional boost. Leave the skin on, as red potato peels are high in anthocyanin antioxidants.6
3. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are edible roots that belong to the Convolvulaceae, or morning glory, family.9 Though they belong to different plant families, sweet potatoes are often grouped with tubers like white, red, and purple potatoes. However, sweet potatoes are rich in nutrients lacking in red, purple, and white potatoes, such as vitamin A.
Sweet potatoes are packed with provitamin A carotenoids, such as beta-carotene. The body converts beta-carotene into retinal and retinoic acid, the active forms of vitamin A. Vitamin A is needed for several critical processes in the body, such as immune function, cellular growth, and vision.10
Carotenoids also act as powerful antioxidants in the body, protecting cells from damage that may lead to disease. Diets high in carotenoids have been associated with reduced risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.11
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, B vitamins, vitamin C, and potassium. Here is the nutrition breakdown for a 3.5-ounce serving of baked sweet potato with skin:12
Calories: 90
Protein: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 20.7 g
Fiber: 3.3 g
Magnesium: 27 mg or 6% of the DV
Potassium: 473 mg or 10% of the DV
Vitamin A: 957 micrograms (mcg) or 107% of the DV
Vitamin B6: 0.285 mg or 17% of the DV
Vitamin C: 19.5 mg or 22% of the DV
Sweet potatoes are higher in fiber than red, white, and purple potatoes. They provide about 75% more fiber than the same serving of red potatoes. Fiber is essential for gut health and helps keep bowel movements regular and comfortable. Fiber also helps keep you satiated (feeling full after meals), which reduces the likelihood of overeating.13
Prep tip: Sweet potatoes are delicious baked, roasted, or steamed and mashed and can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. You can make sweet potato fries by slicing, them, drizzling them with olive oil and spices, and baking them.
Yam vs. Sweet Potato
Yams and sweet potatoes are often lumped together, but they’re completely different vegetables. Sweet potatoes are much richer in vitamin A. They’re sweeter than yams and are often used in dishes like soups or pies.14 Source Healthiest Potatoes: 3 Types That Are Best For You
Sardinians also enjoy wine in moderation, and it turns out, it’s good for more than just raising spirits. Cannonau wine, a local favorite, packs two to three times the artery-scrubbing flavonoids of other wines. It’s no wonder stress levels among the island’s men remain impressively low. Gather with friends, share a laugh and let your worries melt away.
Last but not least, the islanders swear by goat’s milk. This dairy delight contains components that may ward off age-related inflammatory diseases, including heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Sip on a glass and embrace the Sardinian secret to a vibrant, disease-free life.
Okinawa: The land of age-defying women
In Okinawa, Japan, women hold the crown for longevity. Their diet, laden with superfoods like tofu, miso and seaweed, is complemented by the concept of “ikigai” — a deep sense of purpose that infuses every aspect of life.
Okinawans also thrive through “moai,” lifelong social networks established from childhood that provide emotional and financial support. It’s a community ethos that keeps spirits high and stress levels low.
The inhabitants of Okinawa hold a treasure trove of wisdom. Despite facing years of adversity, they have crafted a lifestyle and environment that fosters remarkable longevity.
One of the defining characteristics of older Okinawans is their unshakeable sense of purpose. Ask them why they rise each morning, and they’ll readily articulate it. This imbued sense of purpose infuses their lives with responsibility and the feeling of being needed, even well into their 100s. It’s a powerful motivator that keeps them active and engaged.
Okinawans have also long embraced a plant-based diet. Their meals brim with stir-fried vegetables, sweet potatoes and tofu, delivering an abundance of nutrients with minimal calories. The mighty goya, with its antioxidants and blood sugar-regulating compounds, takes center stage.
While pork does make an occasional appearance in their cuisine, it’s reserved for special ceremonial occasions and consumed in moderation. Moreover, almost all Okinawan centenarians are or were gardeners, a practice that not only provides daily physical activity, but also yields a constant supply of fresh vegetables.
Soy also reigns supreme in the Okinawan diet, featuring prominently in dishes like tofu and miso soup. The flavonoids found in tofu may contribute to heart health and shield against breast cancer. Fermented soy foods promote a healthy gut microbiome and offer a cornucopia of nutritional benefits.
As for the moais, they offer both financial and emotional support in times of need. These tight-knit communities provide a profound sense of security, ensuring that no one faces life’s challenges alone.
Sunlight, a free and readily available resource, is a cornerstone of Okinawa life. Regular exposure to the sun stimulates the production of vitamin D, crucial for stronger bones and overall well-being. Even the island’s seniors maintain optimal vitamin D levels year-round by spending time outdoors daily.
Okinawan elders are no strangers to physical activity. With minimal furniture in their homes, they dine and relax on tatami mats on the floor, requiring them to get up and down numerous times each day. This routine builds lower body strength and balance, reducing the risk of debilitating falls.
Meanwhile, gardens are not just for beauty — they also serve as medicinal treasure troves. Mugwort, ginger and turmeric, staples of an Okinawan garden, boast proven medicinal qualities. Daily consumption of these herbs may offer protection against various illnesses.
Perhaps one of the most remarkable traits of Okinawans is their attitude. They exude affable smugness, embracing life’s simple pleasures and leaving the difficulties of the past behind. They radiate likability, drawing younger generations into their company, enriching their lives as they age gracefully.
In the pursuit of longevity and well-being, Okinawa stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Their time-tested practices offer a blueprint for a life filled with purpose, health and contentment.
Despite America’s reputation for having one of the world’s highest obesity rates,
there lies a small area in San Bernardino County, California that defies all odds.
In the city of Loma Linda, a surprising phenomenon emerges. Residents there live a staggering 10 years longer on average than their fellow Americans. Why? They’re predominantly Seventh-day Adventists, a community that draws its plant-based diet directly from the Bible — grains, nuts and legumes galore.
But that’s not all. These health-conscious folks avoid smoking, alcohol and often steer clear of red meat, shellfish, refined foods and caffeine. Their dedication to an active lifestyle, and their strong sense of faith and family, are cornerstones of their remarkable longevity.
The Seventh-day Adventist Lifestyle has been a cornerstone of the Loma Linda community since the 1840s. As the church thrived throughout the 20th century, so did its 430 members in this idyllic region, where they hold the belief that health is an integral part of their faith. The body is a temple.
(Today, approximately 9,000 Adventists call Loma Linda home —
and they are at the heart of America’s Blue Zone region.)
The 24-hour Sabbath observed by Adventists is not just a religious ritual; it’s a weekly respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. During this sacred time, they focus on family, spirituality, camaraderie and the wonders of nature. This break is a powerful stress-reliever, a builder of social networks and a source of consistent physical activity.
Adventists also find strength in numbers, often spending time with fellow community members who share their values. This sense of community and support enhances their overall well-being.
What’s more, the Seventh-day Adventist Church actively encourages and provides opportunities for its members to volunteer. This commitment to helping others not only keeps them active but also gives them a sense of purpose, staving off depression.
Maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) is an additional priority for Adventists. Those who combine a healthy BMI with regular physical activity and a sparing, if not entirely meatless, diet tend to enjoy lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels and reduced cardiovascular disease risk compared to their heavier counterparts.
The Adventist diet pays off handsomely. Those who consume nuts at least five times a week experience about half the risk of heart disease and gain an extra 2 years of life compared to their nut-averse counterparts.
Their general dietary approach has been linked to other health benefits, including a 70% reduction in lung cancer for those who consume two or more servings of fruit daily. Legume lovers enjoy a 30 to 40% lower risk of colon cancer, while tomato enthusiasts reduce their chances of ovarian cancer by 70%.
Studies show that Adventist men who sip on five or six daily glasses of water also reduce their risk of a fatal heart attack by a staggering 60 to 70% compared to those who consume less.
In Loma Linda, the secrets to a prolonged and vibrant existence are no secret at all. The Seventh-day Adventist community offers a blueprint for longevity rooted in faith, healthy living, and a commitment to nurturing both body and soul. So, whether you’re an Adventist or not, these practices can guide you toward a life filled with vitality, joy and many more years to come.
In Central America, Costa Rica boasts one of the world’s highest life expectancies, despite modest incomes. The “Ticos,” as natives are locally known, thrive on a mix of faith, family and what’s referred to as a “life plan.”
Of particular note is the nation’s Nicoya Peninsula, an 80-mile stretch of land just south of the Nicaraguan border. While economic stability and excellent healthcare certainly contribute, there’s more to the Nicoyan secret than meets the eye.
It inspires optimism in elderly populations and this strong sense of purpose that results in longer-than-usual lifespans. This is part of the pura vida, or low-stress, laid-back lifestyle that the Latin American country is known for.
For some Costa Ricans, purpose and a positive outlook is an integral part of life, researchers say — and it could be helping them live longer, fuller lives.
Researchers studying the science of longevity have coined the term “plan de vida,” or “life plan,” the BBC reported, and they think it is one of the reasons why the residents of Nicoya, a 80-mile long peninsula located along the western coast of Costa Rica, regularly outlive the rest of us.
Within this rural beach community, the average age is 85 — but many residents live to be over 100 years old. In fact, residents here are three-and-a-half times more likely to live past 100 than the global average, the BBC reported.
Playa Santa Teresa Costa Rica is a tiny beach village on the Nicoya Peninsula, just north of Playa Mal Pais. What this little town lacks in size, it makes up for in culture and individuality. The town is made up of surfers and artists, giving it a laid-back, pura vida vibe.
The Santa Teresa Beach is remarkable. Forbes Magazine has voted this area of Santa Teresa and nearby Mal Pais as some of the beautiful beaches of the world. The pure white sandy beaches make it not only a haven for surfers, but for artists trying to capture the stunning views on canvas. You can explore a more remote jungle void of nay crowds or go horseback riding while enjoying stunning ocean views and a dazzling sunset. A perfect trip!
Highlights
Surfing
Unlike the more developed surfing beaches like Jaco and Playa Hermosa, Santa Teresa is a paradise for the solo surfer with some experience. Santa Teresa has fantastic swells all year long, making it one of the best beaches in Costa Rica for surfing.
The semi-isolated town of Santa Teresa also lets you get aways from the city-feel and the quiet beach is less crowded than many other beaches in the country, allowing for the ultimate surfing vacation. As one of the best surfing areas in Costa Rica, novices and pros alike will be able to find suitable waves either in Santa Teresa or one of the many beaches nearby. You can also find many surf schools in Santa Teresa if you are looking to improve your skills.
Yoga
If you’re looking for the ultimate yoga vacation, look no further than Santa Teresa. The laid-back culture of the area is perfect for yogis and the smaller number of tourists guarantees a relaxed vacation.
With an abundance of yoga studios, you can find classes for all levels and types of yoga. Some examples include private classes, acro yoga, kid’s yoga, and couple’s yoga. Enjoy the ultimate yoga practice with an unbeatable scenery.
They often live with their families, who provide not only support, but also a profound sense of purpose and belonging. This close-knit family structure is a cornerstone of their longevity.
When it comes to staying hydrated, Nicoyan hard water is rich in calcium, a vital mineral that may explain their lower rates of heart disease and their strong bones, resulting in fewer hip fractures. It’s a simple, yet impactful, element of their lifestyle that contributes to their health and well-being.
One of the most potent ways to extend your years may be simpler than you think: Eat fewer calories. Nicoyans embrace this wisdom by consuming a light dinner early in the evening, aligning with the concept of caloric restriction for a longer, healthier life.
Centenarians in Nicoya have also always known the value of hard work, deriving joy from their everyday physical chores. Their active lifestyle, which includes physical labor, keeps them physically and mentally engaged throughout their lives.
Regular sun exposure — the sun itself being an abundant perk in Costa Rica — is a Nicoyan practice that aids in the production of vitamin D, crucial for strong bones and overall health. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to numerous health issues, including osteoporosis and heart disease. The Nicoyans’ smart sun habits, about 15 minutes on the arms and legs, help ensure they maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
Midday, especially during summer, is the best time to get sunlight. At noon, the sun is at its highest point, and its UVB rays are most intense. That means you need less time in the sun to make sufficient vitamin D. Many studies also show that the body is most efficient at making vitamin D at noon.
A good way to test if the sun is about 50 degrees above the horizon, or higher, is that your shadow should be slightly shorter than you are tall. If the shadow cast by your body is the same length, or longer, than your height you will not produce Vitamin D–even while your skin is exposed to direct sunlight. Vitamin D from Sunlight: How To Know If Your Sun Exposure Is Producing Vitamin D – Sunsafe Rx
Nicoyans additionally maintain a strong connection to their indigenous Chorotega roots and their traditions. This cultural bond shields them from the burdens of stress, contributing to their overall well-being. Their traditional diet, anchored by fortified maize and beans, may well be the ultimate recipe for longevity.
The Greek island of Ikaria offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, social connectivity and dietary wisdom. Residents navigate mountainous terrain with ease, fostering robust physical health, while their close-knit communities promote emotional well-being.
Today, Ikarians stand almost entirely immune to dementia and the chronic diseases that plague many Americans. Remarkably, one in three of these islanders reaches their 90s. It’s a phenomenon that demands exploration, and it turns out the recipe for their long and healthy lives is a blend of geography, culture, diet, lifestyle and outlook.
For starters, the long-revered Mediterranean diet, featuring abundant olive oil, vegetables and fruits, adds to their vitality — as does their practice of regular fasting, rooted in Greek Orthodox Christianity. An afternoon siesta further reduces stress hormones and guards against heart disease.
Mediterranean Diet – is a diet inspired by the eating habits and traditional food typical of southern Spain, southern Italy, and Crete, and formulated in the early 1960s. It is distinct from Mediterranean cuisine, which covers the actual cuisines of the Mediterranean countries, and from the Atlantic diet of northwestern Spain and Portugal. While inspired by a specific time and place, the “Mediterranean diet” was later refined based on the results of multiple scientific studies.
Drone View Of Ikaria Island In Greece Panoramic aerial view (below) of the traditional picturesque Armenistis village as seen from a drone, one of the most popular holiday destinations on the Greek island of Ikaria located in the Aegean Sea. The Mediterranean Ikaria Island is famous for the longevity and the alternative lifestyle closer to nature.
One of the most popular holiday destinations on the Greek island of Ikaria located in the Aegean Sea.
Armenistis is a little fishing village on a hill, center of the local economy of Icaria, with a sandy beach with transparent crystal clear water, hotel, rooms to let, supermarket, local shops, restaurant, taverns, bar and other facilities. A popular travel destination for summer holidays. Ikaria Island, Greece in November 2022.
That said, regular nappers have up to a 35% lower risk of heart disease-related mortality. The benefits may stem from lowered stress hormones or a rejuvenated heart.
The longest-lived Ikarians often come from the island’s highlands, where physical activity is a natural part of daily life. They tend gardens, walk to neighbors’ houses and do their own yard work. The lesson here is to engineer more mindless movement into our daily routines.
Ikarians also enjoy herbal teas with family and friends, and these brews pack an antioxidant punch. Wild rosemary, sage and oregano teas also act as diuretics, helping regulate blood pressure by removing excess sodium and water from the body.
Fierce Greek Orthodox Christians, Ikarians observe nearly half the year as a period of fasting. Caloric restriction, a form of fasting those trims about 30% of daily calories, is the only proven method to slow the aging process in mammals.
Christian fasting is a voluntary corporal abstinence, the goal of which is to revive the spiritual life of the believer. Abstinence from food is at the base of fasting rather than exhaustion of the body, so those who fast have to assess their abilities, preparation and willingness to do so. If we try to count the days of fasting in a year, we will find out that they number over 200.
During Lent, which is the longest fasting that lasts until Easter, it would be appropriate to recall some features that make fasting part not only of Christianity but also of our cultural traditions. Last, but not least, people who are not religious observe the fast, their aim being to relieve the body in search of health effects. In times when our food is “artificial” and our lifestyle is more sedentary, fasting finds its place in the life of modern man.
The top 5 places in the world where people live the longest, often surpassing 100 years, are known as “Blue Zones.” These regions are distinguished by their residents’ remarkable longevity and health. Here’s a brief overview of each:
In these countries, people live substantially longer than the worldwide average – and each place has its own secret source of vitality.
Explorers throughout history have searched for the legendary fountain of youth.
And while the elusive fountain has yet to be found, certain places across the world have emerged as centres where people live substantially longer than the worldwide average (around 71 years), and each has its own secret source of vitality.
We talked to residents in some of the countries where people live the longest, as ranked by the 2017 World Happiness Report, to uncover the reasons why these places seem to nurture longevity.
These are several regions in the world where people appear to live longer and healthier lives.
These places, called Blue Zones, include parts of California, Japan, Greece, Costa Rica and Italy.
These regions share several features including healthy diets, natural movement and a sense of community.
The Monastery of Osias Theoktisti is located in Pigi village, near Kampos, on the north side of the island. It is a monastery dedicated to the Blessed Theoktiste from Molyvos, Lesvos, who according to tradition, is connected to Paros and Ikaria.
It is not known exactly, when the monastery was built, but an inscription on it, indicates that the monastery operated in 1688, when its hagiography took place. Today, no monks live in the monastery.
From an architectural standpoint, the monastery consists of: the Catholic (i.e. the main temple where all the monks were gathered), fifteen cells that work as hostels and various auxiliary spaces. The Catholic architectural belongs to the type of aisled, barrel-vaulted basilica and has several murals.These murals refer to Cretan painting. Tradition says, that the painter Pantelis Hatzis, reader from Chios and one assistant of him, took the painting up to the monastery.
A little further from the main temple, you can visit the Chapel of Theoskepasti, formed in an impressive way, inside a cave, which on top is covered with a rock. Perhaps one of the most impressive chapels in the world! According to local tradition, the inhabitants carried the remains of Osias Theoktistis from the Catholic sanctuary, inside the cave and formed the area as a chapel. Inside the cave old carved iconostasis is preserved, dating from around 1894. Source: Theoktisti Monastery, Ikaria island.
Ikarians additionally place great emphasis on fostering social connections, which have been linked to overall health and longevity.
Instead of cow’s milk, Ikarians opt for grass-fed goat’s milk. Rich in potassium and the stress-relieving hormone tryptophan, it’s also hypoallergenic and is often tolerated by those who are lactose intolerant.
Ikaria, the island where age really is just a number, reveals a wealth of wisdom that can transform our lives. With a focus on simplicity, community and a connection to nature, the people of Ikaria have unlocked the secrets to a long and joyful existence.
In a world where the quest for longevity has never been more tantalizing, the Blue Zones beckon as beacons of hope. These remarkable enclaves of vitality remind us that, perhaps, the secret to a long and healthy life lies not in the elixirs of youth but in the tapestry of community, purpose and natural living.
Research suggests that gut health is central to overall health.
A prominent study found that eating 30 plants a week leads to a more diverse gut microbiome.
Dietitian Gabrielle Morse tries to eat at least 10 plants at breakfast, including fruits, nuts, and oats.
From kombucha and kimchi to the countless products on grocery store shelves that claim to be good for your gut, knowing how to tend to your digestive health can be a minefield.
Gut health has become a buzzword in the health world, with emerging research increasingly linking a diverse gut microbiome, a term used to describe the trillions of bacteria and other bugs that live in our digestive systems, to good overall health.
“Looking after your gut health really lowers your risk of things like colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease, and it can look after your mental health,” Gabrielle Morse, a gut health specialist and registered dietitian at The Gut Health Clinic, told Business Insider.
“There’s a gut-liver axis, so our gut health looks after our liver. There’s a gut-brain axis, so our gut and our brain look after each other. There’s a gut-skin axis, so our gut and our skin look after each other,” she said.
But there is still a lot that experts don’t know, and the space is fairly unregulated, meaning food manufacturers can make claims that might not be backed by science.
So Morse keeps it simple, aiming to eat 30 plant-based foods a week to keep her gut health in check, an approach that comes from The American Gut Project, a large 2018 study that compared the eating habits and analyzed the stool of around 10,000 volunteers. It found that those who ate a wider variety of plants had more diverse gut microbiomes, meaning they had more “good” bugs in their gut.
And the definition of plants is not limited to fruits and vegetables. It includes whole grains, legumes, herbs, spices, nuts, seeds, and even dark chocolate.
“It’s not restrictive. It’s about crowding your plate with extra items. It’s about challenging you to look for new foods,” Morse said. “I just love the fact that the message is to go for color and variety, no calorie counting.”
Morse shared what she eats on an average day to look after her gut health with Business Insider.
Breakfast
Morse almost always has oats for breakfast, often meal-prepping portions of overnight oats for the week. This is partly because oats contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that has been found to lower cholesterol.
She mixes Greek yogurt or kefir, which contain live cultures that help support the microbiome, with oats.
Morse aims to get at least 10 plant foods into her first meal of the day, including nuts, seeds, and fruits, to reach her weekly goal of 30.
To make the overnight oats, she combines:
50g of oats
Chia seeds
500g of Greek yogurt or kefir
Frozen mixed berries
Juice of an orange
Grated apple
Peanut butter
For the topping:
A generous handful of mixed nuts, including pistachios, walnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, and pecans
Peanut butter
Put the mixture in the fridge and divide it into portions the following day.
Lunch
For lunch, Morse either has leftovers from the night before or rustles together what she calls “taking lunch without making lunch.”
To make it, she buys a premade packet of mixed whole grains, which usually contain quinoa, buckwheat, and rice, she said. She’ll also pick up a bag of mixed salad leaves and some tinned mackerel in olive oil.
She mixes half the grains, fish, olive oil, and leaves together and seasons them with some black pepper and lemon juice. “And that would even be two lunches, so then I have the other half the next day,” she said.
Morse also carries a small Tupperware of mixed seeds with her so she can sprinkle some of those on top.
The dish is high in fiber from the whole grains and seeds, which is great for the gut, and high in protein and healthy fats from the fish and olive oil, she said.
Dinner
Morse approaches dinner by thinking about what food she has in the fridge first. “I can’t tell you that I have a spaghetti Bolognese or anything kind of conventional,” she said.
But she’s always thinking about how she can get as many plants as possible into her meal. “Virtually every dish, if I can, we’ll have some beans added into it for the protein, for the fiber, I know it helps me poop,” she said.
An example dinner is chopped onion, grated carrot and mushrooms sautéed with two different types of beans and some added stock and topped with cheese.
Morse pairs this with some quinoa, some buckwheat, and some rice.
Eating for a longer, healthier life doesn’t need to be complex and expensive.
Some of the most nutritious foods, such as beans, are cheap, accessible, and easy to cook.
You can also conveniently boost your health by drinking smoothies, tea, and even plain water.
It’s boring but true: If you want a long and healthy life, you should try your best to eat well.
Studies on the healthiest people in the world — i.e., people who remain sharp, strong, and youthful well into their 70s, 80s, 90s, and even 100s — show that diet is key.
That means avoiding ultra-processed foods and instead eating home-cooked meals rich in protein, fiber, and cruciferous vegetables.
But putting that into practice isn’t so easy for most people with busy jobs, kids, and ballooning grocery-store prices.
So, if you can’t drop everything and relocate to a parallel universe with Sardinian hills and an abundance of fresh produce, here are some useful diet tips that you can incorporate into your meals little by little:
Eat beans — seriously
Beans are one of the most accessible, nutrient-packed foods you can eat, says Bonnie Taub-Dix, a registered dietitian and the author of “Read It Before You Eat It: Taking You from Label to Table.”
They’re full of protein and fiber and are easy to prepare in simple, healthy recipes such as soup, chili, pasta, and more, Taub-Dix previously told Business Insider.
“Beans are the most underrated food in the supermarket,” she said.
Beans are also a staple in “Blue Zones” diets, says Dan Buettner, an author who popularized research on the regions where people live the longest, healthiest lives in the world.
Anti Aging ingredients to add to your grocery list
Step away from the supplements. Some of the best ways to enhance your health are in your regular grocery store. Blue Zones and other healthy diets routinely include common longevity-boosting foods such as:
Olive oil, which is a versatile cooking ingredient. Research consistently shows it can help prevent early death in as little as a teaspoon per day.
Starchy carbs such as squash and sweet potatoes, which are traditional Blue Zones foods that provide steady energy and fiber for more balanced blood sugar.
Leafy greens, including herbs, which offer a wealth of lifespan-extending micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals as well as polyphenols, plant-based compounds linked to a lower risk of major causes of death such as cancer and heart disease.
If extending your lifespan via some kitchen wizardry feels daunting, don’t despair — smoothies are a tried-and-true longevity strategy backed by doctors, athletes, and biohackers, with no cooking skills required.
Dr. Mark Hyman, a 63-year-old longevity expert who says his biological age is 20 years younger, starts every day with a smoothie of berries, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and whey powder for a total of 48 grams of protein.
The tech exec Bryan Johnson is famous for his intense (and costly) anti aging routine, which involves a “Green Giant” smoothie each day. The ingredients include creatine, which evidence suggests can improve physical and mental performance. It’s also packed with plant-based nutrients linked to better health, such as cocoa flavanols.
Drink water — and cool it on the alcohol
Sorry, happy-hour enthusiasts — the best thing to drink for your health is water, and it always has been.
Despite a bit of evidence (and a lot of wishful thinking) that alcohol such as wine may be good for you in small doses, most research suggests it’s best to avoid imbibing for optimal health.
It’s also important to steer clear of too many sweet drinks, such as sodas and juice, which are linked to a higher risk of illnesses such as liver cancer.
Instead, aim to stay hydrated with between 90 to 125 ounces daily, on average, although the amount varies based on your personal stats and habits. You don’t have to be bereft of all bubbles, though, since seltzer counts as hydration. And coffee or tea is not only allowed but encouraged, offering extra antioxidants and health benefits beyond mere hydration.
As of today, he is considered the best dementia care specialist in the country. To cure a family with dementia, all celebrities got out of their way to get a consultation from him. This includes patients from France, Germany, Great Britain and other countries – they all go straight to his. He is one of the most important endocrinologists in the country.
He’s written 32 scientific books, and there are 3 times as many scientific publications in journals in his professional arsenal. Carson is also known for his many TV appearances on health-related issues.
Dr. Ben Carson rarely gives interviews, nor endorse products like these:
𝑫𝒓. 𝑩𝒆𝒏 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 is a neurologist, neurosurgeon, medical researcher, and author.
He was professor of neurosurgery, oncology, at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. 𝑩𝒆𝒏 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 has a shocking announcement!
I was diagnosed with dementia like I’m not being able to complete tasks independently. I’m only 42 years old. My husband didn’t want to stuff me full of chemical drugs at such a young age. We consulted with many endocrinologists. Decided to try “LuCanna Farms CBD Gummies”. It helped me a lot. And I don’t take “LuCanna Farms CBD Gummies” any longer but it is still fine.
Below you will find important tips to help in your fight against dementia.
Dr. Ben Carson IS ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THAT DEMENTIA IN MOST CASES:
CAN BE TREATED WITH THE HELP OF MODERN EXPERTISE!
Topics covered in the article:
What is the most important thing when it comes to treating dementia?
Why do 95% of dementia patients fail to cope with their diseases?
When is it possible to fight dementia
Donepezil (also known as Aricept) is not what you need!
Doctors sound the alarm while pharmacy chains accept patients
“As of today, Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors based drugs are the basis of practically all treatment methods. However, this is a delusion shared by illiterate patients and doctors. Donepezil is a straight path to illness and untimely death. This isn’t a treatment. If you come to your doctor with dementia and he prescribes treatment based on these drugs, run away from such a doctor immediately.”
Dementia is caused by damage to the brain that affects the brain’s nerve cells, disrupting the brain’s ability to communicate with its various regions. It can also be caused by blocked blood flow to the brain, causing the brain to lack the oxygen and nutrients it needs. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain tissue dies.
Your brain controls all the functions of your body. When your brain function declines, your overall health is ultimately at risk. Living with dementia can lead to many diseases and conditions. In 2021, people spend an average of 5 hours a day caring for families with dementia, as statistics show. In addition to physical and emotional exhaustion, the large amount of money can also lead to severe financial stress.
Aricept, which people seek at this time, can cause a cholinergic crisis, and it can cause great harm to the body when used in large quantities. May cause progressive muscle weakness, which can be fatal if respiratory muscles are involved. It’s actually a bad choice for people with certain heart conditions or a history of stomach ulcers. More importantly, it’s not a cure for Alzheimer’s!
List of threatening consequences of Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors-based therapy
Dizziness, headache, and asthenia(due to plasma levels of the drug peak in three to four hours when taking the drugs)
Insomnia and abnormal dreams
Bradycardia, could predispose patients to falls when moving
Muscle cramps
Fatigue
The development of complications, of course, depends on the time and amount of drug intake, as well as on the individual characteristics of a person. However, IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO AVOID THEM ENTIRELY!
If Donepezil kills, why is it used?
Unfortunately, not many doctors today actually care about the health of their patients. I would even go as far as to say they couldn’t care less. They just do their job and get paid for it. They don’t care if you get well or not. That’s why without a second thought they prescribe whatever their superiors or the Ministry tell them to. And what they’re told to prescribe are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors-based drugs, since their sale brings good profits. And it also provides an effect, albeit a temporary one.
Donepezil, commonly known by the brand name Aricept, is a medication used primarily to treat symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, like all medications, it can have side effects. Here are some of the negative side effects associated with Donepezil:
Common Side Effects:
Muscle cramps
Insomnia
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects:
Trouble urinating
Severe stomach/abdominal pain
Black stools
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Seizures
Slow/fast/irregular heartbeat
Severe dizziness
Fainting
Allergic Reactions:
Rash
Itching/swelling
Severe dizziness
Trouble breathing
Trouble Sleeping/Nightmares
These are not all the possible side effects of Donepezil.
If you experience any of these or other side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. For a more comprehensive list and guidance, please consult a medical professional or refer to the patient information provided with the medication 1 2 3.
Remember, it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Donepezil and report any adverse reactions you may experience.
The medication should be taken as prescribed, and any concerns should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Patients, as a rule, do not know what consequences await them from the constant use of this drug, and doctors do not find it necessary to talk about it.
Treating dementia with chemically aggressive drugs should be illegal! But dementia can be cured! All you need to do is choose the correct treatment method!
Dr. Ben Carson:
I often have patients who have been treated with donepezil for several years. These are sick people, people who have aged far sooner than they should have..
Still, most often, patients find out they have bad memory and problems with reasoning, judgment, and problem solving during a check up. At the same time, up to that point, the patient, as a rule, felt fine and would never have thought that they had dementia. And then they are prescribed donepezil with an increased dosage..
As a result, memory and cognitive competence improve, but over time, the person’s condition begins to gradually deteriorate. The patient begins to complain of chronic fatigue, drooling or sweating a lot, slow heart rate, headaches, breathing problems.
Their legs begin to swell, and in the morning so does their face. They feel like bells are constantly ringing in their ears. Fingers go numb and limbs grow cold.
The doctors say that it’s all because of dementia. But in fact, it’s all because of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors!
Or rather, because of donepezil, which increases the production of hormones to abnormal levels!
HOWEVER, DO NOT THINK THAT YOU DO NOT NEED TO TREAT DEMENTIA AT ALL. If forced to choose between treating dementia with donepezil and not treating it at all, then, of course, you should pick the first option. Dementia will kill you even earlier if left untreated. Just with other symptoms.
A scan of a dementia patient’s brain, where the nerves are wrapped in inflammatory cells…
Blocks Inflammation and Stops Brain Aging in Its Tracks!
Inflammation can give you brain fog and cloudy thinking. It can disrupt your attention and make it harder for you to focus on a task.
And it can cause you to suddenly forget names or words you know well.
How dementia is killing you from the inside out:
Gradual loss of memory.
Memory loss is the most obvious symptom, which is usually noticed by someone else. For example, forgetting recent events or information; repeating comments or questions in a short period of time; misplacing frequently used items or placing them in unusual places.
Poor thinking ability.
Whenever faced with new problems or new situations, the brain will become inflexible and unable to think. For example, it is difficult to come up with the correct words, and even speaking becomes difficult.
Difficult reasoning or problem-solving.
Problem-solving skills deteriorate, and tasks such as brushing teeth, making coffee, using the TV remote, cooking, and paying bills become more challenging.
Feeling down.
Increased or worsening anxiety, depression, confusion, agitation, paranoia, sadness, etc. It’s easy for them to get tired and restless. What’s worse, it can even lead to a change in interest, things that used to be enjoyable become distressed.
Causing hallucination!
It’s common in people with dementia, and sufferers see people or things that are not there from time to time, causing a more severe psychological burden. Sometimes, they can’t even distinguish between real and fictional things, so they often accidentally hurt family caregivers or even self-harm.
No matter how you look at it:
Dementia is a very dangerous disease. Perhaps even the most dangerous. I am very sorry for people who are diagnosed with dementia. I try to help them, but everything depends, first of all, on them.
Blocking inflammation and stop brain aging
If donepezil is out of the question, how do we treat dementia? Take, for example, the average senior citizen who developed dementia with age. Now their memory is getting poor. Let’s say they are taking donepezil and are not feeling well. What can they do to fight dementia? Can they do it on their own?
Let me reiterate – dementia is a complex and dangerous brain disease. This is no ordinary headache or forgetfulness, it is much more serious. The disease affects the entire body, so treatment must also be systemic. Simply relying on donepezil is INSUFFICIENT AND HARMFUL..
Dementia treatment should be comprehensive. And the products they use should not only protect and repair brain cells, but also keep the rest of the body safe.
Memory problems are mostly caused by inflammation. Inflammation can give you brain fog and confusion. It disrupts your concentration and makes it harder to focus on a task.
It can also cause you to suddenly forget a name or word you are familiar with. Anti Inflammatory Diets completely stop inflammation and clears the brain. It also helps nerve cells survive longer, preventing the brain from aging and shrinking. This is all thanks to these two foods with lutein and zeaxanthin.
It has a huge improvement in memory and learning ability, remembering telephone numbers is absolutely not a difficult task.
Enhancing your memory
The memory loss is due to decreased acetylcholine levels.
People’s brains produce less acetylcholine as they age. “product name” contains a special form of choline called alpha-glycero-phosphocholine, or alpha-GPC for short. Unlike other forms of choline, it can cross the blood-brain barrier. So it goes into your brain and helps it make more acetylcholine. Acetylcholine acts as a messenger to help your brain cells communicate with each other, and it also helps you store memories and quickly retrieve them when needed.
Then you can remember what you get when you walk into the room, remember what you need to buy at the grocery store. Patients begin to feel great at any time of the day, including after meals. They are no longer thirsty. No more swelling, rashes or itching genitals. The constant bathroom breaks also stop.
The butterfly effect for any dementia patient!
The “Butterfly Effect” in the context of dementia care is a metaphor for the significant impact that small, positive changes can have on the well-being of a person with dementia. It’s based on the idea that, like the flapping of a butterfly’s wings can lead to large changes in the weather, small acts of kindness and changes in care can lead to substantial improvements in the quality of life for dementia patients.
are initiatives that focus on creating a dementia-friendly environment that caters to the emotional needs of patients as much as their physical needs. These approaches emphasize the importance of personal, compassionate care and aim to create a homelike atmosphere where patients can feel safe, understood, and valued.
The Butterfly Approach, in particular, is an emotion-based, person-centered model of care that has been implemented in various care settings, including hospitals and care homes.
It includes elements such as:
Removing institutional features to make spaces feel more like a home.
Focusing on emotional intelligence in staff recruitment.
Integrating activities organically into the day.
Encouraging the involvement of patients in domestic activities.
These small, yet meaningful changes can significantly enhance the day-to-day experiences of those living with dementia, leading to better health and safety outcomes 3. It’s about acknowledging each individual’s humanity and providing care that respects their identity and life story.
An anti-inflammatory diet works like the flap of a butterfly’s wing that triggers a healing chain reaction that restores the internal organs and improves the overall well-being. From the healing of blood vessels to the restoration of eyesight and joints.
Easy awakening
You wake up in the morning and just fly off your bed — you don’t need to force yourself to get up, kneading and rubbing your stiff legs, creaking your back and neck. From the very morning your body is full of energy and strength.
Excellent health and mood
All day. You sleep well and get enough of it. You feel rejuvenated. You don’t have to go to the toilet all the time at night. Nothing hurts or itches.
Tasty breakfast
Your menu will expand significantly. You will no longer need to follow a strict diet. You will remember the taste of those dishes that you can only dream of. No more low-carb diet. Enjoy the taste of your favorite food!
Enormous strength
You no longer need to worry about your legs when going outside, walking is no longer an exhausting task, you can walk or even jog all day without your legs getting tired or swollen. Sandals, shoes, socks do not bite into your swollen legs like a fork into a sausage.
Absolute serenity
You are completely calm and relaxed. No more constant pain that consumes your mind, preventing you from focusing on anything else. When nothing hurts, familiar things, sounds, smells play out in new, long-forgotten colors.
Excellent eyesight
Even severely damaged vision will begin to gradually recover. What used to be fuzzy will become clear. You can once again see the bus number from a distance, you can once again admire the beauty of nature.
And most importantly, you will extend your life! At the same time, even in extreme old age, you will feel healthy and energetic. You don’t have to burden your relatives with taking care of you. You’ll be able to take care of yourself.
Include these sips for better health and wellness.
Reviewed by Dietitian Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD
The effects of drinks on overall health tend to be totally underrated. While it is true that your dietary choices can impact chronic inflammation, and eating a diet rich in healthy fats, vegetables, fruit and fish can help combat chronic inflammation, some beverage choices can help accomplish the same goal as well. So if you don’t know where to start to find these “top picks,” you have come to the right place. We dug into the research to find the best drinks to include in your anti-inflammatory diet.
What to Look For When Choosing Anti-Inflammatory Drinks
If you don’t know where to start when choosing your anti-inflammatory drinks, this short guide will help you navigate your best choices.
First: What to avoid. When choosing an anti-inflammatory drink, you want to skip ones high in added sugars and saturated fat, both of which can increase inflammation, according to research published in Frontiers in Immunology and the International Journal of Tryptophan Research, respectively. This can make ordering a fun latte at your favorite coffee shop a bit more challenging—but let’s think of the great goal here.
Instead, opt for drinks low in added sugar and saturated fat, as well as ones that contain plant compounds that can manage chronic inflammation. Many plant compounds have been linked to anti-inflammatory benefits, and some will be highlighted in this article, so keep scrolling.
The 6 Anti-Inflammatory Drinks You Should Be Buying
These sips may benefit your health goals if you are trying to manage chronic inflammation.
Green Tea
Green tea contains an impressive compound called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been linked to anti-inflammatory effects by acting as an antioxidant in the body, according to 2023 research published in Molecules. Just be mindful of how much added sugar you include in your green tea drink, as excessive amounts are linked to elevated chronic inflammation.
Juice gets a bad rap, but unlike sodas that are made with added sugars, 100% orange juice contains natural sugars along with a slew of important nutrients, like vitamin C and thiamin.
According to the results of a study published in the journal Advances of Nutrition, drinking 100% orange juice (without added sugars or colors) may be linked to a reduction of interleukin 6, a marker of inflammation.
Other data published in the journal Food and Nutrition Research showed that adults who drank 750 milliliters (or around 3 cups) of orange juice daily for eight weeks showed better anti-inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.
Opting for an orange juice with added turmeric may deliver even more anti-inflammatory effects. Uncle Matt’s Organic Ultimate Defense is made with organic oranges and 500 milligrams of organic turmeric per 8-ounce serving. A compound found in turmeric, called curcumin, has anti-inflammatory properties.
Pomegranate Juice
Certain components of this fruit, including a group of plant compounds called polyphenols, have potential anti-inflammatory effects. Punicalagin is one polyphenol found in pomegranate (and its juice) that has proven to have anti-inflammatory benefits, per 2022 research published in Antioxidants. And if that’s not enough to convince you to enjoy this gorgeous-colored ruby red bevvie, consuming pomegranate juice has also been linked to a reduction in blood pressure.
Green Juice
Enjoying a blended drink made from watercress, spinach, kale—or really any leafy green veggie—is also amazing for helping manage chronic inflammation. Some data, such as a 2020 study published in Genes & Nutrition, shows that consuming leafy green veggies has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Watercress is one noteworthy leafy green veggie that can be an important part of an anti-inflammatory juice recipe. This aqueous veggie contains a compound called phenylethyl isothiocyanate, or PEITC, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant properties, according to 2020 research published in Molecules. Watercress can be added to almost any green juice recipe. Or, you can always use a combo of greens!
Beet Juice
Squeeze the liquid out of this humble root veggie and you’ve got a vibrant red juice. It’s a natural source of betalains (betanin) and nitrates, making it a nutritional powerhouse. A review published in Phytotherapy Research found that betalains play a role in eliminating oxidative and nitrative stress and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Beet juice can be made at home using a juicer, or it can be purchased as a pre-made bottled option, like Arden’s Garden Beet It Better.
Milk
Despite the social media bad rap, dairy milk does not contribute to chronic inflammation, and in some cases, drinking it may have anti-inflammatory effects, according to a review of 27 trials published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. When you are choosing your dairy drink choice, opt for one without added sugars. (Chocolate- and vanilla-flavored milks are delicious, but can be laden with the stuff.)
Have plenty of nuts and seeds, particularly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like walnuts, chia seeds and flax seeds
Consume oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, tuna and mackerel for another rich source of omega-3 fatty acids
Ensure you are including key micronutrients in your diet, including magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc and selenium.
Add lignans to your diet—like flaxseed and sesame seeds. They contain a type of antioxidant that has been shown to have antioxidant effects
Participate in regular movement that feels good to you
Get enough sleep
Bottom Line
Your beverage choices can help manage chronic inflammation naturally or promote inflammation, depending on what ends up in your glass (and your belly). Staying away from drinks with excessive amounts of added sugars and saturated fats and sticking to options like green tea, orange juice and green juice may help you on your quest for managing inflammation naturally. While plain water should still be your primary choice for hydration, opt for anti-inflammatory beverages when you’re craving some flavor.
Since Lyme disease can cause inflammation, consuming foods that may exacerbate this inflammation, such as those high in sugar, might not be beneficial for managing the condition.
It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider or a dietitian for personalized dietary advice, especially when dealing with a condition like Lyme disease.
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