This is a bitter pill to swallow. Many cocoa products in the US contain concerning levels of toxic heavy metals, a new study from George Washington University warns. Many cocoa products in the US contain worrisome levels of lead and cadmium, a new study from George Washington University warns. Picture Partners – stock.adobe.com Researchers analyzed 72 cocoa-based foods — including dark chocolate, often praised as a heart-healthy treat — over eight years. They found that 43% of the products contained an amount of lead that tops recommendations, while 35% exceeded cadmium limits. Surprisingly, organic-labeled products had higher levels of lead and cadmium than non-organic products, the researchers said. Contamination can come from soil or occur during manufacturing. A single serving of these cocoa items may not pose significant health risks, but several servings might. Leigh Frame, director of integrative medicine at GW, led the testing of 72 cocoa-based products. The George Washingto...
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Omega-3 algae supplements may help ease acne: study
The research, published Wednesday in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, followed 60 people who had suffered from mild to moderate acne for years. Participants were mostly women, in their mid-20s, who were not on prescription acne medication.
Acne sufferers may benefit from following a Mediterranean diet and taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements derived from algae, a new study out of Germany finds. Here are some before and after pics from the research. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Most reported dissatisfaction with their prior acne treatments — and nearly all had omega-3 deficiencies at the start of the study.
Omega-3s are essential for cell function, especially in the eyes and heart. The body does not naturally produce them, but they can be obtained from foods such as fish, walnuts, flax seeds and leafy vegetables.
The body does not naturally produce omega-3s, but they can be obtained from foods such as fish, walnuts, flax seeds and leafy vegetables. Alamy Stock Photo
A healthy, balanced diet that keeps blood sugar levels steady can help in the battle against blemishes. Blood sugar spikes can cause inflammation and spur the body to produce excess sebum, an oily substance that can lead to acne.
For this study, participants were encouraged to follow a plant-focused Mediterranean diet of unprocessed, seasonal and nutrient-dense ingredients and avoid ultra-processed foods, dairy products and meat.
The volunteers took omega-3 supplements sourced from algae and containing EPA and DHA with their main meal of the day. The dosage ramped up over the 16-week study.
Omega-3 fatty acid levels were around 4.9% at the start. Those who surpassed the target of 8% experienced a significant reduction in the severity of their acne, the researchers said.
Acne is the most common skin condition in the US. Alamy Stock Photo
“Lifestyle interventions, including dietary recommendations, should not be considered in opposition to prescription medications, but rather as a valuable adjunct to any modern acne treatment plan,” said corresponding study author Dr. Anne Guertler of the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.
Guertler’s team noted a few people dropped from the study because their acne worsened.
The omega-3 dosage should be adjusted in future studies so all participants can reach the target level, the researchers said. Further research should also evaluate if being at the upper end of the range, around 11%, yields additional benefits.
In our fast-paced modern world, having the ability to calm the mind is invaluable. By learning to control the breath and withdraw the senses with the practice of Tummo breathing you can tap into an inner stillness. Those who regularly practice Tummo often report feeling more centered, present, and in tune with themselves. Also known as “Inner Fire” meditation, Tummo helps ignite inner “heat,” burning away mental fog while energizing both body and mind. Our contributor Bayu Prihandito, Life Coach, and RYT 200 Yoga Teacher, says, “What we call the “inner fire” Tummo meditation, is known to increase mental clarity, focus, and reduce stress. With practice and patience, you can experience a heightened sense of peace from the ability to manage your emotions more effectively.” With roots tracing back centuries in Tibetan Buddhism, Tummo uses focused breathing and visualization to unlock deep states of relaxation and mental clarity. This Tibetan meditation technique is...
This is a bitter pill to swallow. Many cocoa products in the US contain concerning levels of toxic heavy metals, a new study from George Washington University warns. Many cocoa products in the US contain worrisome levels of lead and cadmium, a new study from George Washington University warns. Picture Partners – stock.adobe.com Researchers analyzed 72 cocoa-based foods — including dark chocolate, often praised as a heart-healthy treat — over eight years. They found that 43% of the products contained an amount of lead that tops recommendations, while 35% exceeded cadmium limits. Surprisingly, organic-labeled products had higher levels of lead and cadmium than non-organic products, the researchers said. Contamination can come from soil or occur during manufacturing. A single serving of these cocoa items may not pose significant health risks, but several servings might. Leigh Frame, director of integrative medicine at GW, led the testing of 72 cocoa-based products. The George Washingto...
English actor, Hugh Bonneville, is best known for his character as Robert Crawley in the hit period-drama called Downton Abbey . During one of his interviews with BBC One TV in August 2020, his fans were confused and created a controversy on social media as the star looked “unrecognizable” and had lost a lot of body weight. So, what led to this incredible Hugh Bonneville weight loss? From his diet plan and workout routine to other secrets — find everything you need to know about how he lost 16 pounds and slimmed down during the pandemic. Who Is Hugh Bonneville? Born on 10th November 1963 in Paddington (London, United Kingdom), Hugh Bonneville is a renowned and classically trained English actor who is renowned for his role as Robert Crawley, 7th Earl of Grantham, in the popular TV series named Downton Abbey . His performance and acting skills in this period drama got him several nominations such as one Golden Globe nomination, two Primetime Emmy Award nominations, and three Screen...
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