The global health and nutrition market is one of the most robust market sectors, but is always developing in unexpected directions. The market is estimated to be worth billions, potentially even hundreds of billions. It includes all manner of dietary supplements, health products and wholesome foods, but there is always room for new ideas or old ones.

The up and coming trend is the adoption of adaptogens, ancient plants used by cultures across the globe which are finally reaching modern markets. Rritual is on the cutting edge of the novel field, bringing adaptogen mushrooms to the daily routine of health and nutrition conscious consumers, positioning the company perfectly for a breakthrough event.

In a moment of crisis, as the long term effects of the Covid pandemic are emerging, we are only adding to the stress and anxiety of modern life. Covid-19s full health impacts are only beginning to be understood, but it seems clear that it will take a heavy toll on our minds as well as our bodies. Customers need something to help tackle more than just the immediate medical concerns: nootropics, and adaptogens in particular, could play a key role.

The dictionary defines adaptogens as a plant extract that is held to increase the bodys ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning. They offer a contrast to many health and nutrition crazes which promise to boost or overcome the bodys capacities.

Adaptogens aim to restore balance and help the body adapt, enhancing our own natural potential to fight off stressors. They represent the leading edge of science and tradition in a growing market as consumers experience the benefits for themselves.

Health and nutrition spending have been on the rise for the past half century, growing with consumers income and health consciousness. From nutritional supplements to healthier options on existing foods, companies have been profiting by bringing increasingly conscious consumers what they need. As definitions of the industry are vague, exact estimates of its value differ, but many put it well over 120 billion USD with estimated growth of 6-7%.

On the other hand the complementary and alternative medicine market is growing much more quickly, and has great untapped potential. It is valued at just under 70 billion USD but has growth predicted closer to 19% each year. Functional medicine, the desire to keep the body well and treat underlying causes rather than symptoms, is a large part of this growing field.

Adaptogens have a foot in both. The strength of the nutrition market and growth of the functional medicine field help explain why the demand for these mushrooms is booming. And why companies like Rritual will be blooming.

Adaptogens have started to hit store shelves and consumers radar only recently, but their impact is large, and growing. They have received global attention in leading publications like the NYT and record growth in product values. Suppliers report seeing double, sometimes even triple, digit growth as companies struggle to get their hands on the valuable and rare commodities.

Adaptogens offer a way to help the body combat stress, helping to restore mental fitness and physical wellness. However, they have not yet reached their market potential as options for consumption are still somewhat limited. So far the adaptogen market has focused on roots like Ginseng, which have greater name recognition. Successes have been seen in smoothie bars and cafes who sell products with them directly to consumers in privileged areas, but dont reach the masses. Other companies such as Moon Juice have poured recent efforts into health adjacent products like skin-care.

Mushroom adaptogens in particular have room for commercial growth. The only other company specializing in mushroom adaptogen products is Four Sigmatic. But they primarily offer (very expensive) pre-brewed coffees or coffee mixes, adding additional cost to consumers while giving them very little control over flavor or dosage.

Furthermore, research shows that for adaptogens to be effective, they must be taken regularly. Buying the occasional smoothie or coffee because it has an adaptogen in it may sound appealing (and be good marketing) but it isnt enough. Like vitamins, to really capture the functional, mental, and physical benefits of adaptogens, consumers need them to be part of their routine.

The major stumbling block for companies when marketing adaptogens is consumer awareness. An article from just last month (aptly titled the Age of Adaptogens) points out that only about 4% of consumers are aware of adaptogens. Yet among those who are, consumption is high. This means that getting the right message out will be key, and this is where Rritual steps in.

This is where Rritual has the answer. Instead of trying to get you into their shop door, or to buy their pre-mixed coffees, they are selling the essential adaptogen blends directly. These will be available both directly to consumers online (DTC) and in health or grocery store chains across the continent. All you have to do then is add a spoonful or packet to your daily coffee/tea.

They could not have picked a better time to launch these products. Stress levels are high and consumers are particularly concerned about mental fitness and holistic wellness. Rritual is also aiming for the growing functional health trend: taking care of the bodys needs and not just treating symptoms when they emerge. Their products are designed to bolster the bodys ability to maintain homeostasis, but also the minds willingness and ability to manage stress.

Their organic and all natural ingredients are exactly what trend setting consumers and influencers require. Yet they offer products which everyone can benefit from. With products supporting cognitive function (the industry terminology labels these nootropics), stress relief or boosting the immune system they can help anyone facing the trials of modern society.

The versatility of adaptogens, and the sheer variety available, offer even more opportunities for supporting our health. Rritual is constantly innovating its product offerings, and has hinted that they are updating their selection to include new designs or blends. With the pandemic at the forefront of everyones minds products that support endurance and the respiratory system are highly anticipated additions, as well as more versatile offerings such as skincare and vision.

The potential for investment is as massive as their possible market impact. Bolstered by consumers turning towards adaptogens they are well positioned to become the default against which the rest are measured.

Mushrooms are an underexploited superfood, whose market is already growing. Adaptogens are a key component of ancient medicine whose wisdom is only beginning to hit modern shelves. Health conscious consumers are increasingly interested in functional solutions that tackle holistic wellness to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle.

This is their moment. A health product like no other for which there is opportunity, demand, and a gap in what the market already provides. A wave is on the horizon, and when it hits, we can expect to see Rritual, and companies like it, surging ahead.

(Featured image byBarbroforsbergviaPixabay)

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Are you stress eating? With the current takeover of COVID-19, were all feeling the stress! Before you succumb to emotional eating, join Health Coach, Kris Allen of New Path 2 Wellness, she is offering a free 60-minute Zoom class on keeping healthy in these uncertain times. The course is happening Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This outreach program requires registration.

In addition to addressing nutrition, Allen will cover topics from ways to ensure a great nights sleep, how to safely navigate grocery shopping, food prep, to addressing the stress in your life as well as keeping those social connections healthy even though we all are practicing physical-distancing.

The current state of things has certainly changed the ways most of us live day-to-day, however, this doesnt mean we cant continue (or begin) living a healthy lifestyle, says Allen. Cooking has always been a crucial aspect of healthy living, and it can also be a stress-reducer. Whether you just didnt have the time to cook, or lacked the confidence to get into the kitchen, this change in routine could be the perfect opportunity to polish your skills and start creating healthier eating habits!

To reserve your spot, go to: https://newpath.iinhealthcoaching.co/COHW0001 or call/leave a message at (805) 235-2263.

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About the author: News Staff

News staff of the Paso Robles Daily News wrote and edited this story from local contributors and press releases. Scott Brennan is the publisher of this newspaper and founder of Access Publishing. Connect with him on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, or follow his blog. He can be reached at scott@pasoroblesdailynews.com.

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Free public course offered in avoiding stress eating and unhealthy habits during COVID-19 - Paso Robles Daily News

"Don't expect yourself to be a super-human! It's just not possible. Or fun, for that matter!"

Stitch that Kate Hudson quote on pillows and place one in every room of our house because it's the 2020 mantra we all need to live by.

The Weight Watchers ambassador opened up about her go-tonutritiousrecipes and indulgences in E! News' Wellness Wednesday series, which features some of our favorite stars detailing their self-care routines. And fun is definitely a word we would use to describe her approach to a healthy lifestyle.

And given her passion for all things wellnessincluding co-founding the popular athletic-wear company Fableticsit shouldn't come as much of a surprise that theHow to Lose a Guy in 10 Day star'sdaily practices are inspiring. But given that she is also a mom to sons Ryder Robinson, 16, and Bingham Hawn Bellamy,9, and daughter Rani Rose Hudson Fujikawa, 22 months, her day-to-day is also super relatable, with Hudson working to "cultivate a positive mindset" and make time for herself.

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Kate Hudson Reveals the Words She Tells Herself When She's Feeling Stressed - E! NEWS

The Active Southern West Virginia nonprofit organization has announced it has expanded its programming to Kanawha and Boone counties.

Having served Fayette, Raleigh, Nicholas and Summers counties for the past five years, Active SWV has also been working with neighboring communities along the Route 3 corridor and the Upper Kanawha River valley to widen its outreach.

Active SWV provides wellness activities for the residents of southern West Virginia, offering programs led by trained volunteers within communities where they live. These programs are intended to improve health outcomes in underserved communities, workplaces and schools and attract new businesses and jobs to the region.

Active SWVs evidence-based programs include Workplace Wellness, Community Captains, Kids Run Clubs, and Bike/Walk SWV. Supported by the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, the West Virginia Development Office, the West Virginia Bureau of Public Health, West Virginia University, and the Appalachian Regional Commission, ActiveSWV has provided technical assistance and training to more than 250 volunteers. The volunteers lead their friends, neighbors, co-workers, and families toward living a healthier lifestyle.

The West Virginia Development Office supports the expansion of Active SWV programming into Kanawha and Boone counties, WVDO Executive Director Michael Graney said in a media release. The WVDO recognizes the connection between a healthy workforce and job creation. Active SWVs focus on improving community health will help attract new industry and diversify our states economy.

As a member of the ASWV Board of Directors and the Ware Distinguished Professor in the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences at West Virginia University, I am pleased to support the outstanding work of Active Southern WV, and its expansion into Boone and Kanawha counties, said Eloise Elliott, Ph.D., in the release. As a partner with our Center for Active WV in CPASS, my colleagues and I find the work and programming of ASWV to be an outstanding model of community engagement to promote physical activity opportunities and participation that truly encompasses the entire lifespan children to older adults.

ASWV programming targets many societal sectors identified in the National and West Virginia Physical Activity Plans, including education, business/industry, health care, parks/recreation/fitness/sport, public health, and volunteers/nonprofits, Elliott said. Healthy citizens of southern West Virginia lead to a healthy workforce and growing economy, and I am honored to be a part of a thriving and innovative organization striving to help southern West Virginians make physical activity and a healthy lifestyle a priority in their lives.

Healthy people and healthy places must be priorities for West Virginia now and in the future. Partnering with Active Southern WV to implement worksite wellness programs in Boone and Kanawha counties allows our state to move toward better outcomes and positive change, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources Prevention Policy Senior Manager and Wellness Program Coordinator James Vance said.

For more information about the expansion into the UKV or other matters relating to the organization, contact Active SWV Executive Director Melanie Seilier at info@activeswv.com or visit the organizations website, http://www.activeswv.com.

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Active Southern West Virginia expands into Boone County - The Coal Valley News

Yokota Air Base Need some Monday motivation on Tuesday? Airmen and military families at Yokota can put in some work as a military community during live BE FIT workouts on the Exchanges Facebook page at 1 AM Pacific Time each Tuesday.

BE FIT ambassadors Roy Montez and Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Sonja Berry host 20-minute workouts on Facebook at 11 a.m. CST every Monday. In addition, Soldiers, Airmen, retirees, Veterans and military family members can watch the series on the Exchange Facebook page.

The live workouts, which include interval training, core workouts, strength exercises and more, grew out of a desire to promote wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These BE FIT workouts remind Yokota Airmen that staying fit is criticalespecially during the pandemic, said Yokota General Manager Julia Woods. Joining the Exchange workouts through Facebook fosters a sense of community and resiliency.

Each video begins with a short introduction, then Montez describes each exercise before he and Berry lead viewers on stretching. During the workout, Montez pauses to rest, provides advice and answers questions from the online audience.

Its like having a free trainer, said Berry, the Exchanges assistant director for public health and food safety. It demonstrates the Exchanges commitment to fitness and healthy lifestyles.

The Exchanges BE FIT initiative highlights better-for-you dining grab-and-go options and provides an assortment of fitness gear and wellness services. The program empowers military customers, their families and the broader military community to make healthy lifestyle choices.

The community is encouraged to follow the Yokota Exchanges Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/YokotaExchange/ For more BE FIT choices, visit the Exchanges community Hub.

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Airmen, Families at Yokota can exercise at home with AAAFES' Weekly BE FIT live workouts - Stripes Japan

New research shows there were 80,000 missed diagnoses of cancer in the U.S. between March and June.

According to IQVIA Institute for Human Data Science, cancer screenings decreased by 90 percent in April compared to Februarys numbers. The rate of colonoscopies dropped by 90 percent; Pap smears, 83 percent; prostate-specific (PSA) tests, 60 percent; and CT scans (which show lung tumors) were down 39 percent.

Mammograms were down 87 percent, which is a major concern for Dr. Jessica Trevio Jones, breast oncologist with Memorial Hermann Cancer Center and UTHealth. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, according the American Cancer Society.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Hes dying of cancer. She survived it. They had their wedding at Houston Methodist.

A mammogram is the best screening modality to catch cancer, Trevio Jones said. She believes breast cancer will be the one to flare the most post-COVID.

The reason why we can find and cure breast cancer is because we have success in catching it early, she said. Every woman not getting a mammogram, were falling behind. How many are we missing? So many.

Chealci Eddins had just turned 27 when she found a lump on her breast last summer. It took only four months for the small tumor to grow to 5.67 centimeters, which is roughly the size of a peach.

As a mother, teacher and coach, she had an active, healthy lifestyle before her breast cancer diagnosis on Jan. 8. She began chemotherapy treatments on Jan. 24.

With how aggressive my cancer was, I went into survival mode, said Eddins, who is now 28. I knew my grandmother and great-grandmother had breast cancer, so knowing this, I didnt allow myself to be blind. I looked things up and compared my options.

By her fourth cancer treatment, the coronavirus began spreading in the Houston area, and the rules changed about visitors. She said going through chemotherapy alone was an emotional drain.

Telemedicine appointments were another change that she had to get used to, she said. But she had no time to lose in adjusting.

For a person who hasnt been to a doctor as often, they may not be comfortable with talking to a doctor over the phone. A lot of women have this misconception that you can do it later, Eddins said. But this is something you cannot wait until later to do, especially with minority women, in particular, because breast cancer is so aggressive.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer affects non-Hispanic white people the most at 130.8 per 100,000, followed closely by non-Hispanic Black people at 126.7 people per 100,000.

However, Black women have the highest breast cancer death rate at 28.4 deaths per 100,000.

Fearing a cancer recurrence later in life, Eddins opted for a June double mastectomy after she finished chemotherapy. She said the decision was made for her 3-year-old daughter, Rylie Simpson.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Houstons Pink Phurree dragon boat raises breast cancer awareness

Because of COVID concerns, no friends or family could be with her at the hospital.

Having to get someone to drop me off in the Memorial Hermann parking garage at 5 a.m. and then see my surgeons and doctors to prepare for the surgery was a lot, Eddins said. More emotional and social support is needed right now. People feel so alone.

Dr. Charles E. Geyer, deputy director of Houston Methodist Cancer Center, said Houston hospitals have worked to try to minimize the exposure of cancer patients by restricting the number of people entering to those who need treatment.

In late March, some cancer-related surgeries were performed ahead of schedule or postponed depending on the severity. Those practices were brief, and specialists continued to serve their patients like they did pre-COVID but with extra safety precautions, Geyer said.

National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Ned Sharpless wrote in June that there will be 10,000 more breast and colorectal cancer deaths in the next decade that will be indirectly caused by the virus.

Fear of contracting the coronavirus in health care settings has dissuaded people from screening, diagnosis and treatment for non-COVID-19 diseases. The consequences for cancer outcomes, for example, could be substantial, Sharpless said. At many hospitals, so-called elective cancer treatments and surgeries have been de-prioritized to preserve clinical capacity for COVID-19 patients.

Renew Houston: Get the latest wellness news delivered to your inbox

During peak months, patients received less intense chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy or had their tumor removal delayed, Sharpless said, which will result in the pandemic causing delayed diagnosis and sub-optimal care for people with cancer.

When Trevio Jones heard the term non-essential surgeries, she said it made her think cancer was considered non-essential. None of her patients had delayed surgical procedures because of coronavirus concerns, she said.

Curing someone and saving their life is essential, Trevio Jones said. If youre a woman diagnosed with breast cancer, we try to gauge the right treatment for you in this crisis. Your cancer diagnosis is a crisis.

But a person cant get treated for cancer if they never a diagnosis because they skipped a regular screening. Geyer worries about the impact of delayed cancer screenings.

Screening has been beneficial, so if people are slower to move to treatment because of fears of catching coronavirus, we worry about what might happen in terms of cancers, Geyer said. When you detect it early, treatments are less challenging for patients.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Rare but not impossible: Male breast cancer remains low, but mortality rates are much higher than in women

Eddins caught her cancer early, in addition to finding out she has the BRCA1 mutated gene, also known as the breast cancer gene. She is now awaiting breast reconstructive surgery and radiation treatments.

But she is also preparing for a new school year as an educator after months in treatment.

The last moment I had with my ninth grade students last year was right before spring break. They made me posters and TikToks it was a joy, Eddins said. Im still Ms. Eddins, still 27 (now 28), and Im not about to let cancer age me at all.

julie.garcia@chron.com

twitter.com/reporterjulie

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How many are we missing?: Research shows 80,000 missed cancer diagnoses this year - Houston Chronicle

By: Lifestyle Desk | New Delhi | Updated: August 10, 2020 1:20:17 pm There is an extensive focus placed on sourcing and the nutritional output of the food that they eat. (Photo: Getty)

The current health crisis has also led to an increase in stress levels. This has not only resulted in an irregular sleeping pattern, but has also led to bad food habits, which can have an affect on physical as well as mental health. The food we eat is the central-most contributing factor towards developing a strong and holistic immune system, says Rishi Sakhuja, CEO, FruitBox & Co.

However, he adds that despite our routines and food habits going for a toss, people are becoming progressively more concerned about the quality and nature of food products they consume daily. There is an extensive focus placed on sourcing and the nutritional output of the food they eat. While we cross-check and make conscious decisions, it is important to remember the basics since this is what which lays the foundation for a healthy routine, he adds.

Below, she suggests a few simple things to keep in mind if you are in the process of making a switch towards healthy eating, or at least planning to.

Keep up with home-cooked food

The pandemic has been instrumental in catalysing a planetary-wide change concerning physical health and wellbeing. These hard times have forced people to recognise the importance of eating right. There is nothing like a healthy home-cooked meal free from any preservatives and extra salts. Make sure you use fresh oil and ingredients to get the most out of your home-cooked food.

Dont forget your dose of vegetables and fruits

It is no surprise that a healthy diet contributes to a healthy body and mind. People across the world are adopting a nutrient-rich diet that consists of fresh fruits, green vegetables, etc. The pandemic has witnessed a steep decline in demand for junk, canned and processed foods as they are detrimental to ones well-being.

Its crucial to consume foods that are well-fortified with all the essential disease-fighting nutrients such as food rich in vitamin C and E which helps the body not only fight infection but also reduce the risk of other ailments.

Nothing beats a balanced diet

The lockdown period has taught us a valuable experience which in turn has led to many becoming diet-conscious and appreciative of practising a good, well-balanced, and healthy lifestyle. A diet that includes all the necessary nutrients is the best possible choice for us today as it not only acts as a great source of natural energy for the body but also provides it essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre to help it steer clear of chronic diseases and infectious ailments.

Before the pandemic, we rarely found a moment to pause in between the busy work schedules, this led to stress eating or binge eating, Consuming an optimum mix of fresh fruits, salads, and green leafy vegetables also offers our body a much-needed peace of mind and serene wellbeing in todays fast-paced lives. he says.

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Beat the stress with these healthy eating habits - The Indian Express

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, when social distancing and business closures have become the norm, it can be difficult to be as active as we once were.

As a result, we may be staying home more and indulging in more sedentary activities, such as watching TV and playing video games.

More than ever, though, it is important to stay active and live a healthy lifestyle.

One way we can do this, according to new research, is to cut back on our time watching TV.

In fact, researchers say cutting back to 2 hours a day may be a good way to prevent poor health.

The study used data from people who were recruited between 2006 and 2010 to participate in the UK Biobank, a large, long-term study aimed at studying how genetics and environment impact the development of disease.

In the study, the researchers looked at data regarding the lifestyle and demographics of 490,966 people between the ages of 37 and 73.

The study participants were followed from 2006 to 2018, with their data being linked to national routine death and disease registries.

To rule out the possibility that poor health was causing the participants to be more sedentary and watch more TV, the researchers excluded those who had cancer and cardiovascular disease from their study.

In addition, they left out anyone who had had any adverse event related to their health in the 2 years prior.

When they analyzed the data, the team found that those who had the lowest overall health risks were those who viewed TV for 2 hours or less per day.

They estimated that 6 percent of all deaths and 8 percent of cardiovascular deaths were associated with TV-viewing time.

Furthermore, if the participants limited TV time to 2 hours a day, it could potentially prevent or delay all deaths by 5.62 percent and cardiovascular deaths by 7.97 percent.

According to Furong Xu, PhD, professor of health and physical education at the University of Rhode Island, the physical act of watching TV is not what contributes to poor health.

Instead, she said, it is being used as a surrogate measure of how sedentary a persons lifestyle is.

The more someone watches television, the less they are moving their bodies, said Xu.

Xu said, in her opinion, that the take home message of this study is the importance of physical movement in health.

Everyone needs a break every once in a while, she noted, but TV is only one way that people can unwind.

Doing other physical activities can result in lower health risk over time.

The study authors concurred with Xus assessment, writing that TV watching is only one type of sedentary behavior. Other sedentary activities, for example watching videos on your smart phone, can also lead to adverse effects on your health.

The authors further noted that other factors may contribute as well, such as lower socioeconomic status and snacking on unhealthy foods.

Dr. Vijaya Surampudi, assistant professor of medicine in the UCLA Division of Human Nutrition, suggested first of all speaking with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen. Your doctor can help you determine what type of activities are best for your personal needs.

In addition, she had the following suggestions for how to begin incorporating more activity into your daily life:

As far as your ultimate activity goals, Xu said the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommendation of 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity physical activity is a good target.

People who watch more TV, and as a result, are more sedentary, are at greater risk for poor health.

By becoming more physically active, we can improve our health and decrease our risk of dying prematurely.

Cutting back on sedentary activities such as watching TV allows more time for being physically active.

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Here's Why You May Want to Limit Your TV Time to 2 Hours a Day - Healthline

When will this covid-19 pandemic end? No one can know for certain, but one public health expert, Dr. David Katz, said last week that well enter a new phase with far fewer cases in "something like another four to eight weeks." Meanwhile, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has been rethinking its own projections based on what were learning about the disease.

Lets start with Katzs encouraging analysis. Hes the founding director of Yale Universitys Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center and was director of medical studies in public health at the Yale School of Medicine.

In an interview with radio host Michael Smerconish Aug. 4 and in an article on his own LinkedIn page, Katz said were much closer to the end than it might seem. Thats because new research is suggesting that the actual number of Americans who have been infected with the virus is 10 times the 5 million who have tested positive. Moreover, research is suggesting that 20-50% of Americans may have partial immunity gained from past infections to other coronaviruses, including the common cold. Some people fight the disease off without producing measurable antibodies.

In other words, we may be at the point where 80% of the population already has some protection from the disease, though its not evenly spread across the United States. He says thats more than enough for herd immunity, which is when enough people are immune that the virus stops spreading. He doesnt expect a second wave because the first wave never ended.

In the meantime, Katz advises people to wear masks and to continue to keep their distance because a large "dose" of the virus can be more dangerous than a small one.

"I think we continue to take precautions, but Im quite hopeful that the end of this tunnel is not that far away," he said during the interview.

Katz said the United States response to the pandemic has been haphazard, and testing has been inadequate. He also believes strategies should have been "risk stratified" with a focus on the vulnerable, and should be moving forward. We know, for example, that the disease is often fatal to older people, but as of Saturday no Arkansans under age 25 had died from it.

Katz noted that, after age, health has been a major predictor of how a person responds to the disease. A healthy lifestyle does not guarantee a good outcome, but it certainly helps, and its something we can control. Now is the time to get healthy because it will protect us against COVID-19 and also offer long-term benefits, he said.

Katz emphasized that he could be wrong about his projections about the pandemics end. Im writing about him because he offers a credible and hopeful alternative viewpoint that also doesnt deny the pandemics seriousness. If youre looking for some encouraging news, read his LinkedIn article and listen to his roughly 18-minute interview with Smerconish.

Meanwhile, the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Public Health has been reassessing its predictions about the pandemic.

Previous projections have been discouraging if not frightening. The July 17 biweekly report by the College of Public Health faculty said the pandemic would peak in Arkansas on Nov. 26, when 2,591 Arkansans would be hospitalized and 543 would be on ventilators.

That would be terrible. By comparison, 508 Arkansans were hospitalized and 117 were on ventilators on Aug. 10.

But the writers of the biweekly report dated July 30 decided not to make long-term projections because of new research about the disease. The report said the number of asymptomatic cases is 10 to 20 times higher than previously thought, which would bolster Katzs case. The bad news is that children may be more infectious than previously thought. Thats an ominous piece of news as schools prepare to reopen.

Almost none of us were infectious disease experts when this started, and were still not. Im giving extra weight to Dr. Katzs projections because they make sense, because I want to believe him, and because he offers an evidence-based timeline for when this might end. It helps to have a goal. So in the Brawner household, well continue to take precautions like he said to do, while hoping the end of the tunnel is near and knowing it might not be.

Steve Brawner is a syndicated columnist in Arkansas. Email him at brawnersteve@mac.com. Follow him on Twitter at @stevebrawner.

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When will the pandemic end? Soon, says one expert - Greenwood Democrat

Pune, Aug. 11, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global non-alcoholic beverages market size is anticipated to rise significantly on account of the current trend of health and fitness and the rising inclination towards healthy beverages. As per a recent published report by Fortune Business Insights titled, Non-alcoholic Beverages Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Carbonated Soft Drinks, RTD Coffee & Tea, Bottled Water, and Fruit Beverages), Distribution Channel (Supermarket/ Hypermarket, Food Services Sector, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, and Online Retails), and Regional Forecast, 2020-2027, the value of this market was USD 919.13 billion in 2019 and is expected to rise at a CAGR of 8.20% between 2020 to 2027 to reach USD 1,257.77 billion by the end of 2027.

Gain More Insights into the Non-alcoholic Beverages Market Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/non-alcoholic-beverages-market-101927

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating. The healthcare sector is facing a crisis of professionals and medical facilities and is not able to suffice to the needs of the increasing patient pool. Most of the regional and international businesses are also at halt owing to the imposition of lockdown by the governments of various nations. We hope to overcome this situation soon as various research and development centres are focusing on the development of an antidote to fight the novel coronavirus.

We at Fortune Business Insights are offering special insightful reports on the basis of various markets impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. These reports evaluate the pros and cons of the market and its future prospect. Such information will help investors accordingly prepare for the future.

Click here to get the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this Market.Please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/covid19-impact/non-alcoholic-beverages-market-101927

List of Leading Companies Profiled in the Non-alcoholic Beverages Market Research Report are:

The Report is based on the following factors:

Drivers & Restraints-Increasing Popularity of Refreshment Drinks to Aid in Favor

The increasing prevalence of various acute and chronic diseases have encouraged people to adopt a healthy lifestyle. These habits include regular exercise and fitness and consumption of nutritional food and beverage products. The rising inclination towards healthy lifestyle and eating habits is the key factor promoting the global non-alcoholic beverages market growth. In addition to this, the increasing popularity of refreshment drinks and the advent of innovative flavors and taste will add a boost to the growth of the market in the forecast period.

On the contrary, the fluctuating prices of raw materials to make non-alcoholic beverages and fluctuation in its availability, especially for seasonal fruits may cause major hindrance to the market in the coming years.

Nevertheless, the evolution of e-commerce platforms and the rising production of soft drinks to suffice to the needs of the consumers are likely to help the market witness lucrative growth opportunities in the forthcoming years.

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Segmentation-Carbonated Soft Drinks Segment Emerged Dominant Owing to its Refreshing Properties

Among all segments in type, the carbonated soft drinks segment earned 39.80% share in 2019 and emerged dominant. This segment is holding the largest non-alcoholic beverages market share on account of its refreshing properties and cost-efficiency.

Regional Analysis-Asia Pacific Held Largest Shares Attributing to Rising Disposable Income of People

Among all regions, Asia Pacific held the largest non-alcoholic beverages market share in 2019. This is attributable to the increasing modernization and adoption of western habits among people that resulted in rise in expenditure on beverage products. On the other side, the North American market earned USD 199.53 billion and will showcase significant growth in the coming years on account of rising demand for sports drinks and RTD beverages in the region. Besides this, the Europe market will witness a notable growth on account of the decline in consumption of alcoholic beverages and increasing popularity of better-for-you products, thereby promoting the consumption of healthy soft drinks.

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Competitive Landscape-Coca-Cola Company is Dominating Market Attributing to Continuous Innovations

The global market for non-alcoholic beverages is consolidated in nature on account of the presence of a handful of players holding major shares such as Nestle S.A., The Coca Cola Company, and PepsiCo Inc. Among these, the market is dominated by the Coca-Cola Company accounting to the continuous innovations in their beverage products. This includes VitaminWater range, probiotic drinks, fermented drinks, and RTD beverages, among others. In March 2019, this company launched a new drink of Jaljeera flavor into the Indian market. Other players operating in this market are engaging and investing heavily on innovative product launches to gain a competitive edge in the market competition. Some others are engaging in collaborative efforts such as agreements and contracts, joint ventures, and partnerships, to attract significant revenues to the market in the coming years.

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Industry Developments:

December 2019 The launch of a greenhouse accelerator program in 2020 was announced in North America by PepsiCo Co. to help smart startup companies provide the base for following up with the current trends in the non-alcoholic beverage segment and earn a position in the market competition.

Have a Look at Related Research Insights:

Functional Beverage Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Fortified Juice, Energy Drink, Sports Drink, Dairy-based Beverage, Enhanced Water, Others), By Distribution Channel (Supermarket/Hypermarket, Departmental Stores, Health Stores, Online Stores, Others), and Regional Forecast 2019-2026

Organic Beverages Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Non-Alcoholic, Alcoholic), By Distribution Channel (Mass merchandisers, Convenience Stores, Online retails) and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026

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Non alcoholic Beverages Market Size to Reach USD 1,257.77 Billion by 2027: Current Trend of Maintaining Health and Fitness to Boost Growth, says...

Former Washington wide receiver Josh Morgan proved that he would do anything for family.

After suffering from kidney disease, Morgan's brother Daniel was in need of a kidney transplant in March in the middle of a global pandemic.

While the number of major surgeries have dropped significantly in the months since the pandemic began and few people wanted to be near hospitals if they didn't have to, Josh knew he wanted to be a match for his little brother.

He watched his brother suffer from the disease for years, requiring dialysis three times a week for four hours each.

"It's one of those situations, as a big brother, when you're always the protector," Josh said. "You're like: God, just give me the pain. Don't make him go through it.' It was like he was deteriorating. All of his energy was just gone. It was like watching him grow into an old man overnight."

While their father Dennis was a health match, the doctors wanted someone younger, so Josh stepped up.

"People thought I was crazy, but I just always considered myself the sacrificial lambfor my family," said Josh, who has a 6-year-old son, Josh Jr. "He needed that kidney. And if my son ever needed a kidney, too, then he's going to have mine and you're just going to put me to sleep. That was just always my mentalityIt was scary for me because I couldn't imagine life without my brother."

On March 26, Daniel woke up from surgery with a new kidney feeling better than ever. Now, he has three kidneys because the procedure attaches a healthy one without removing the non-functioning ones.

After playing two seasons with Washington and six years in the league, Josh became an entrepreneur, started his own business and has done some acting, coaching and mentoring as well. While Josh is down to one kidney, he will be able to live a normal, healthy lifestyle with his brother by his side.

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Former Washington Wide Receiver Josh Morgan Donates a Kidney to His Brother - NBC4 Washington

More than 80 teams applied for the inauguralChicago Prize, and on Thursday it was announced that after a yearlong competition, a group from Auburn Gresham had nabbed the $10 million grant, with plans to use the fundsto develop a healthy lifestyle hub and renewable energy and urban farming campus.

The Chicago Prize, sponsored by the Pritzker Traubert Foundation, sought to invest in collaborative initiatives developed by leaders within communities on the citys South and West sides, rewarding ideas generated by people whove worked over the years, or even decades, to improve their neighborhoods.

Greater Auburn GreshamDevelopment Corporation (GAGDC), Urban Growers Collective and Green Era Partners headed by CarlosNelson, Erika Allen and Jason Feldman, respectively partnered on the winning submission, dubbed Always Growing, Auburn Gresham, which was selected from six finalists.

Always Growing, Auburn Gresham is the kind of bold, innovative work, rooted in deepcommunity partnerships that is needed to make our city more equitable and vibrant, saidPenny Pritzker, co-founder of the foundation, with her husband Bryan Traubert.

News of the win left Allen overwhelmed.

Its still surreal, like being in a dream, its totally surreal. Just so many tears, said Allen. To know what this is going to mean, to have a community empowered to own and operate the facilities that are essential for quality of life. To have health care and wrap-around services and employment opportunities. To have a facility that can grow food and create energy and provide education and inspiration to young people and folks returning from incarceration all happening within a community that really represents the challenges that weve been up against for the last 130 years. To see that tide shift and in such a significant way, to be part of a cohort of other finalists that are doing the same thing and to be part of the amazing community in Chicago is too many tears.

A pair of ambitious projects are coming to Auburn Gresham, thanks to a $10 million grant from the Chicago Prize. (Pritzker Traubert Foundation / YouTube)

The Always Growing, Auburn Gresham proposal encompasses a pair of ambitious projects at two separate sites.

GAGDC is taking the lead on developing the healthy lifestyle hub, which involves the restoration of a long-vacant building on West 79th Street near Halsted Street, acquired by GAGDC in 2019. Once open, the hub will provide a host of health services medical care, dental, behavioral health, nutrition and wellness in an area thats been described as a health care desert.

The four-story building will also house a digital community center, a Black-owned sit-down restaurant, a minority-owned pharmacy, and social services including workforce development, tutoring and housing assistance.

In addition to funding from the Chicago Prize, the healthy lifestyle hubreceived $4 million from the city in Juneas part of the Invest South/West program.

The renewable energy and urban farm campus will rise on a vacant parcel at 650 W. 83rd St. The brownfield was used for decades as an impound lot by the Chicago Police Department, and before that was one of International Harvesters manufacturing sites. Green Era acquired the land from the city in 2015.

Both projects are repurposing vacant buildings and vacant land, so theres no displacement of existing businesses or residents, Nelson noted.

Urban Growers Collective will manage the urban farm and plans to address local food insecurity by growing 14,000 to 26,000 pounds of food per year, serving customers at a planned outdoor market and supplying produce to Fresh Moves Mobile Markets, which provide fresh food to 5,000 low-income residents on the South and West sides. Community engagement and an extensive educational curriculum are also a significant part of Allens vision for the farm.

On the renewable energy side, the Always Growing team presented plans for Green Era to manage an anaerobic digester, which converts food waste into clean energy and also creates nutrient-rich compost that supports urban farming, thereby creating a circular economy.

The digester, Allen explained, is a very expensive composter that basically works like a humans digestive system, except its made from metal.

Microorganisms are eating the food waste, methane gas rises, its captured, goes through filters and then it gets pressurized and pushed into the Peoples Gas pipeline, the same way that if you have a solar panel it goes into the grid, Allen said.

Theres money to be made from the digester, she said, both by selling the compost and also by charging to process food waste collected by haulers. A portion of those profits would be reinvested in the community through an arrangement that gives GAGDC a stake in the digester.

In the past, when these kinds of technological innovations begin to take root the beneficiaries typically arent Black folks, Allen said. And Im just excited to have young people see this in their community and to be inspired to become engineers or to come up with some genius new way of doing something.

The Alway Growing, Auburn Gresham team getting the good news of their Chicago Prize win on a Zoom call. (Pritzker Traubert Foundation / YouTube)

The Always Growing team estimated it would create 300 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, ranging from farmers to physicians.

Those jobs wont appear overnight, and the transformational change promised by the healthy lifestyle hub and urban farming campus is years down the road, Allen said, but its coming.

The way she sees it, the real impact of the Chicago Prize is that it gave people a seat at the table whove never even been in the room before.

I looked at it as an opportunity to elevate the genius and talent of the folks who typically do not get recognized or have access to power and capital. Its never, Look at all of these brilliant folks who are doing this front line work, who are serving the community and have so many ideas and visions, she said.

Were super excited to be working with the Pritzker Traubert Foundation and their team and all of the advisers. Its like, thats almost the biggest award, is just being able to really get that deep insight and understanding of systems that honestly, we typically dont have access to. And I think thats been part of their strategy, to really break down those walls.

Its a start, said Bryan Traubert.

We all know that Chicagos racial and ethnic inequities didnt happen by chance. There was decision after decision after decision both by government and by business that have left us with the situation that we have. And so just as these things have happened by active decisions, we can address these things also with active decisions, he said. And Chicago Prize is a small part of that.

Also on Thursday, the foundation announced an additional commitment of $2.5 million in developmentfunds to the other finalist teams from Austin, Englewood, Little Village, NorthLawndale and South Chicago.

Contact Patty Wetli:@pattywetli| (773) 509-5623 |[emailprotected]

Note: This story was first published on Aug. 6, 2020. It has been updated.

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$10M Chicago Prize Awarded to Auburn Gresham Team to Build Health Hub, Urban Farm - WTTW News

How can you help Globe-Miami youth steer a positive course in life?

Arizona Youth Partnerships mission is to build solid foundations for local youth and families by partnering with adults who care here in southern Gila County to find creative solutions for local issues together. Please join us in supporting the Copper Basin Coalitions mission to empower youth and adults to choose a drug-free and healthy lifestyle! Copper Basin Coalition partners meet on the third Thursday each month; prior to this year, meetings were in person. Now, social distancing circumstances have moved our meetings online. As convenient videoconferences, you can join from the comfort of wherever you want to connect via ZOOM. New partners are always welcome -- please join our next meeting Aug. 20 at noon, hear about our activities, share your creative ideas and help spread the word.

Email [emailprotected] to be added to the invitation list for our meetings and to receive a convenient Click Here link for the Zoom website where well meet. The link is also posted on facebook.com/CopperBasinCoalition. Like and follow us to join our growing local community for useful tips, links, resources and event announcements. Questions or need assistance? Contact Ruben Castro of Arizona Youth Partnership at 602-478-4856 or email him at [emailprotected]

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Copper Basin Coalition Aug. 20: A positive direction for Globe-Miami youth - Arizona Silver Belt

The chance to showcase our sport and its values would be unparalleled.

In 2013, the World Flying Disc Federation was formally recognized by the International Olympic Committee and is now one of 42 International Federations whose sports may be considered for the Olympic Programme. Ultimate has been a medal sport in The World Games since 2001, the largest multi-sports games behind the Olympics. Ultimate athletes will chase their next World Games gold in Birmingham, Alabama, USA, in 2022. WFDF specifically stated in its Strategic Plan for 2019-2024 that pursuit of inclusion in the Olympics was one of its seven strategic goals, and we are actively pursuing a spot on the 2028 Summer Programme in Los Angeles.

So why would we pursue this goal? Should we be pursuing this? Some members of our community have questioned whether disc sports should get involved with the Olympics, given the scandals that have arisen around the Games and the IOC in the past, and others worry that this strategic pursuit will mean that other priorities are ignored or that the sport could be ruined if in trying to get into the Olympics we become just like any other sport. It has also been suggested that the organizational infrastructure for ultimate and other disc sports would not be able to handle a huge influx of new athletes if Olympics participation were achieved. These are important questions, ones worth exploring.

We see three main benefits to achieving Olympic inclusion. First, the visibility and recognition that a sport receives by being featured in the Olympics supports a sport in two main ways. The Olympic Effect introduces a whole new generation of youngsters to a sport and can lead to potentially explosive growth. Disc sports are relatively low cost and extremely sustainable, which can make them extremely attractive in developing nations. The other benefit is the financial support that can come with Olympic participation. Many of our organizing bodies in disc sports could do so much more to support the growth and development of our sports with additional resources, and the Olympic visibility would attract non-endemic sponsorship and official government funding to expand the programs already being managed by our national and local groups.

Second, inclusion on the program would give us a bully pulpit from which to tell our story, which is truly unique. We would be able to show the world referees arent necessary and that a self-officiated sport works. We would be able to showcase our mixed division of play and provide proof that gender equality can be put in practice in elite competition. And we would be able to communicate to the world what our vision of spirit of the game means and remind the world of the self-described Olympic goal: The goal of the Olympic Movement is to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practiced without discrimination of any kind and in the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play.

Third, the Olympics are the pinnacle of multi-sports Games, giving athletes the opportunity to compete against the best in their sport once every four years on a highly visible, prestigious international stage. The sheer scale of the Olympics, the number of countries and sports involved, and the recognition it provides make this a remarkable experience for the participants.

But let us be clear, we fully understand that there are issues with involvement in the Olympics. First, we recognize that the Olympic Movement has its flaws, as does all of sport, because it is a mirror of global society. Unfortunately, all too many large institutional organizations involving lots of money can bring out the worst in some people, and we have seen issues arise in the past in this institution too, with vote-buying, personal enrichment, doping, and illegal betting, among others.

However, there appears to be a very real effort to combat these issues. IOC President Thomas Bach, in a speech to the International Partnership Against Corruption in Sport (IPACS) on December 6, 2018, in London stated: We are a values-based organization. We stand for the values of excellence, respect and fair play. In this sense, we have the double duty to uphold good governance and integrity in everything we doThe IOC remains committed to fight corruption in sport at all levelsIntegrity entails credibility, and corruption threatens the very credibility of sports organizations, as well as competitions. He reaffirmed this commitment in late 2019 at the second IPACS meeting.

Second, there have been concerns about the social impact of the Olympic Games, whether the impact on host cities and their inhabitants, the rights of the athletes, etc. The IOC is attempting to address these and many more issues in its Olympic Agenda 2020, released in 2014, which among other things changed the approach in host city bidding, initiated a move from an incumbent sport based to an event based programme, included a non-discrimination clause for sexual orientation in its Charter, targeted gender equality and encouraged mixed gender team events, and committed the IOC to improving transparency. These were further expanded upon in the introduction of the IOC New Norm in 2018. Most recently, the IOC asked their Athletes commission to review again the IOC Charter Rule 50 limitations on demonstrations or protests.

Third, from an organizational perspective, inclusion in the Olympics is not an end goal in and of itself but rather a means to an end. We want to see our sport grow. We want to promote women in sport. We want to introduce the sport to new communities who may benefit from a low cost sport that promotes fair play, mutual respect, dispute resolution, and a healthy lifestyle, whether in the developing parts of the world or with new socioeconomic groups in the inner cities in developed countries. The recognition and credibility that would come with Olympic inclusion would introduce an entirely new and far-broader generation of young athletes to our sport and trigger our sport as Sport for All in all countries. The need for a more inclusive approach has been highlighted in the recent Black Lives Matter protests we have seen across the globe and it is incumbent upon us to be more available to new constituencies.

Fourth, the prospect of significant growth can be daunting, but it is worth it. It will take more coordination and resources, and we recognize that organizers at the international, national, city, local level, and school levels are already stretched. However, we also need to realize that our current operational strategies will have to change, and that new resources will come with growth and recognition. Of course, this will require the building of a more robust infrastructure, additional training, and SafeSport controls, among many other things, but broadening the base of the pyramid to greatly expand our youth and other programs will make us stronger as a sport over the long-term.

In the end, we have also asked what the majority of the playing community wants and have a couple clear data points. USA Ultimate, in the research phase of its latest strategic planning process in February 2018, asked survey respondents to name their Top 5 Must Have Vision Themes out of 13 choices. With 7,758 respondents, getting ultimate in the Olympics ranked second only after inclusiveness and diversity, and ahead of Spirit of the Game thriving, getting ultimate as a varsity sport, or having the sport widely broadcast and sponsored. WFDF has done several global surveys, most recently in 2019 (1,943 respondents) and 2016 (5,186 respondents), and asked the community how high a priority getting disc sports into the Olympics should be. A full 52.9% in 2019 said ultimate should be either the highest or at least an extremely high priority (53.4% in 2016), 36.9% (36.2%) said it should be pursued but not to the exclusion of other priorities, and only 10.2% (10.4%) said it should either not be a priority or not be pursued.

In
conclusion, at WFDF, we view inclusion in the Olympic Programme as worthwhile because of the ways it can further so many of our highest priority objectives: growth, gender equity, inclusiveness, diversity, promulgation of the values and attitude of spirit of the game, and a healthy lifestyle. The Olympics remain the pinnacle of the world of sport and the benefits of being in the Games would result in a net positive for our sport and its athletes. Accordingly, WFDF continues to work closely with USA Ultimate to be considered for inclusion in the LA2028 Olympics.

WAFC Executive Director Tim Smith argues the case for why ultimate should stop chasing the Olympics.

See the article here:
Why Ultimate Should Pursue the Olympics - ultiworld.com

Herbal detoxes are one of the most controversial health remedies.

Many natural health advocates claim that they rid the body of toxins and promote weight loss. Meanwhile, medical experts are skeptical of their purported benefits and point to the potential harm they may cause.

This article tells you all you need to know about herbal detoxes, whether they work, and any potential risks.

Herbal detoxes are usually beverages or teas containing various herbs. Despite a lack of evidence, theyre used to promote weight loss and eliminate toxins from the body.

While the durations of these detoxes vary, most are used short term, usually 314 days. Still, some detox drinks are recommended as daily support for your body on an ongoing basis.

Most herbal detox products contain natural ingredients that promise to promote weight loss and liver health, improve blood sugar levels, and remove toxins from the body.

The most popular ingredients include valerian root, licorice, cilantro, coriander, chlorella, milk thistle, dandelion root, skullcap root, rhubarb root, ginger, juniper berry, and burdock root.

While some limited animal research has suggested that these ingredients have chelating properties, meaning theyre able to bind to metals, theres no evidence these ingredients detox your body (1).

Herbal detoxes have many health claims, such as ridding your body of toxins, promoting weight loss, and aiding blood sugar management. Usually, detoxes last 314 days, but theyre sometimes used on an ongoing basis.

Although herbal detoxes are a popular health trend, most of their claims are overblown and have little scientific backing.

Most detox product labels feature long lists of natural ingredients. Yet, they fail to mention which toxins will be removed from the body or provide any proof of their effectiveness.

Your body is already equipped with a natural detoxification system. Your liver, kidneys, intestines, and skin work nonstop to remove waste from your body via feces, urine, and to a minor extent, sweat (2, 3, 4, 5).

To date, no clinical studies have shown healthy individuals have a buildup of toxins in the body, nor that herbal detoxes increase your bodys ability to perform its regular duties.

Although people claim to feel better after a detox, its likely due to other healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as limiting processed food and focusing on more nutrient-dense, whole foods.

Though you may experience some weight loss, you will likely regain the weight once you stop the detox. This is because most herbal detoxes contain diuretic ingredients that cause your body to expel water through urine and feces, leading to a rapid drop in water weight (6, 7).

This type of weight cycling can lead to disordered eating thoughts and behaviors, as you may feel discouraged when you regain weight once the detox is over (7).

However, the prolonged use of herbal detoxes may lead to muscle and fat loss. Due to an increase in bowel movements, your body expels nutrients faster than its absorbing them. This is very unsafe and should be avoided (7).

Rather than relying on a detox to lose weight, opt for healthy lifestyle behaviors, such as following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing your stress levels, and getting enough sleep each night (8, 9).

Many herbal detox products boast a variety of claims, such as that they regulate blood sugar levels, decrease bloating and acne, and increase energy levels.

However, no research supports these claims. If you have diabetes or another medical condition, its important to speak to your healthcare provider first.

Theres no evidence that herbal detoxes rid your body of toxins or promote weight loss. Your body already has a natural detoxification system to remove waste through your urine, feces, and sweat.

Before you try an herbal detox, its important to know their potential risks.

Most herbal detoxes are not regulated and may contain ingredients that are either not listed on the package or present in significantly higher quantities than indicated. This can lead to you to overdose on certain ingredients, which may result in serious side effects or even death (10).

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has taken action on many herbal detox products for their false claims, content of harmful ingredients, and improper labeling (10).

Though many products claim to be natural, this does not mean theyre safe or should be taken in large amounts.

Herbal detoxes that contain diuretics can increase your risk of becoming dehydrated and experiencing low electrolyte levels, which can be life threatening (1, 11).

For example, a 67-year-old man reported nausea, trembling, and weakness after taking an herbal detox beverage containing uva ursi leaves, juniper berries, and many other ingredients for 5 days. He was treated at an intensive care unit for severely low electrolyte levels (12).

In 2017, a 60-year-old woman died from liver failure after taking a Yogi brand detox tea 3 times per day for 14 days. The tea contained 18 herbs that were believed to be responsible for the decline in her liver function (13).

In another case, a 50-year-old woman died from multiple organ failure after ingesting an herbal Epsom salt detox, resulting in manganese toxicity (14).

Whats more, regularly using herbal detoxes can lead to severe weight loss and nutrient deficiencies, as your body isnt given enough time to absorb the calories, vitamins, and minerals in your diet (1, 11).

While herbal detoxes are generally not recommended, certain at-risk populations should particularly avoid them, including:

Before trying an herbal detox, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider.

Many herbs interfere with medication clearance in the liver, potentially decreasing or increasing the effects of your medications and posing serious health risks (15, 16, 17, 18).

Due to the large variety of ingredients used in herbal detoxes, its essential that you talk to your healthcare provider before starting an herbal detox if you are taking any medications (15, 16, 17, 18).

Herbal detoxes are not regulated and may contain unsafe ingredients that can lead to serious side effects and, in rare cases, even death. If youre looking to try an herbal detox, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first.

Herbal detoxes are popular due to their long lists of health claims, although they remain unproven.

Though it may be tempting to try an herbal detox, no evidence suggests that it will help clear toxins from your body or support long-term weight loss.

If youre looking to improve your health, youre better off adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a nutritious diet and regularly exercising, rather than trying a potentially dangerous detox.

See the article here:
Herbal Detoxes: Myths, Facts, and What to Know - Healthline

The sudden death of radio legend Bob Mabena has left South Africans and entertainment industry colleagues reeling in shock and sharing fond memories of the star.

Over the years, he has opened up about wanting to lead a healthy lifestyle, wanting to own a restaurant by the beach and his love for his wife.

Here are five must-read Bob Mabena stories:

Healthy lifestyle

In 2017, Bob told TshisaLIVE that dying from a lifestyle-related disease was one of his biggest fears. He said he had buried a number of his friends who had died from diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

I have recently lost too many friends to such diseases and I don't want to fall victim to them too. That is why I need to lead a life that is as healthy as can be, he said.

At the time he said he would go back to gym where he also hoped to tackle the growing pot belly.

The rest is here:
From living a healthy lifestyle to loving his wife here are five stories to remember Bob Mabena by - TimesLIVE

Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Emily Freeman, Exercise Physiologist at OhioHealth and Strive to Thrive personal trainer.

In January of 2020 you made health and fitness resolutions. During this time, you were committed to eating right and making time to exercise. And then, just when everything was going well, Murphy arrived with his new best friend Coronavirus to put a stopper in your progress.

Fitness centers were closed, quarantine went into place, groceries and toilet paper disappeared and the stress of the "new normal" was forced upon you.

Maybe you were one of those that thrived in quarantine. COVID-19 didn't stop you from reaching your goals.

But if this was not the case, you are not alone. Many of us contracted COVID-19 in another way! Symptoms include, but not limited to: sugar cravings, stress eating, lack of motivation to move, high volumes of screen time, and a 19-pound weight gain.

Below are some remedies:

-- Start TODAY, not tomorrow.Dont wait for Monday, the next month, or 2021. Start today by making a plan.

-- Renew your motivation.Start by revisiting your goals. Think back to the reasons why you started this wellness journey?

-- Stay positive.Re-frame your thoughts and give yourself a pep-talk. This will help you avoid slipping into bad habits and make a successful transition into the healthy lifestyle youre looking to accomplish.

Need additional guidance and motivation? If you are looking for a home gym consider trying us out.

The OhioHealth Ontario Health and Fitness Center has taken extraordinary measures to keep the fitness center safe. As a clinically integrated medical fitness center, we are following OhioHealth safety standards in addition to the responsible guidelines for reopening fitness centers set forth by the State of Ohio. For more information call the OhioHealth Ontario Health and Fitness Center at (419) 526-8900.

Sign up for the weekly thrive newsletter and get local inspiration delivered to your inbox every Monday.

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Strive to Thrive blog: Getting back on track - Richland Source

Dawn Bilbrough, 51, from York, captured the nations hearts at the onset of lockdown, when her emotional plea to shoppers to stop stockpiling went viral. As a critical care nurse, shes worked with COVID-19 patients throughout the pandemic, and has had to manage the associated stress and emotional trauma that has entailed, as well as the physical difficulties of working while in full PPE.

We caught up with Dawn before her next 12-hour shift, to find out just how tough the past few months have been in an intensive care unit.

I became a critical care nurse in 2003, so 17 years. It was something I always wanted to do. I just have this natural ability to sit with people when theyre at their lowest and when theyre in pain, whether its physical, mental or emotional. I can just sit with them I dont shy away from it. I suppose you might say I just hold space.

The biggest reward for an intensive care nurse is seeing a patient come back through the doors a couple of months later, maybe a little weaker, but actually walking back through the doors and saying hi to us.

The hardest thing can be being constrained by protocol. Obviously every job has to have some structure, some protocol, so that can be a little bit frustrating sometimes. But we all work with it, dont we, and accept these things? What else is challenging? The usual lack of time, lack of resources but we all pull together. Were a really good team within the health profession, we just help each other out everyone mucks in together.

During the peak, we had such a vast number of patients coming through with COVID, patients who were incredibly unwell. Were used to dealing with very sick patients, but this was a case of every single patient was sick. As critical care nurses, we were spread quite thinly. We were very fortunate to have people come in from other departments, and even though those nurses werent trained in critical care, they got on with it and helped us as much as they could. Without them, I dont know how it would have been.

Wed also have more than one patient, which goes against what normally happens. This was quite stressful, because everyones medication was ongoing, and even though you do have someone to come and support you, youre the one actually managing the situation. Its a huge stress on an individual.

Were going to work each day not knowing what were going to be seeing.

Of course, weve all had shifts where were totally exhausted, feeling vulnerable because were going to work each day not knowing what were going to be seeing. And weve also got our own family lives back at home, along with the difficulties of the restrictions. Its definitely been challenging, but everyone has pulled together doctors, nurses, cleaners. And then of course we got additional support from Clap For Carers and all the fundraising thats been going on thats been a real morale boost and has lifted spirits a bit.

Absolutely, yes. My daughter and I dont live together, but when we first heard we were going to go into lockdown, we considered moving in together for support. But then I just thought, no, I cant do that, because I was concerned about bringing it home. Ive had colleagues whove actually lived away from their families during most of the lockdown, because they were so concerned about taking it back to their family.

Ive had colleagues whove actually lived away from their families during most of the lockdown.

It was incredibly difficult. There was a lot of FaceTime going on with family and friends, but it was really hard. And then I became ill as well I think I had COVID so I had all that going on, too. Im usually quite fit I work out a lot, have quite a healthy lifestyle and Ive never been really poorly but I was very ill. I had chest pains, a temperature quite a lot of the symptoms.

Yes, I must say that it has. I have accessed a counsellor and I know the NHS are supporting staff that the resources are there. I just hope that people choose to access these services, because everybody needs a little bit of support from time to time I think even more so now, with what were dealing with day in day out. You can only process so much on your own or with your colleagues, and its not good to just keep burying things away, because one day it will come back out.

Were always in PPE now. The masks are tight. They rub. We do have barrier creams and little wound dressings that we can put beneath the masks to stop them rubbing our faces, but but they still hurt. And weve got these long gowns on all day, which are hot. You cant hear anything, either, so you cant communicate properly. Having a normal conversation through a vizor and mask it really hard. You feel like youre always shouting. I sometimes think that when I come home, Im still shouting! It makes the job so much more difficult, and its more tiring as well, wearing PPE.

I think psychologically we do need this easing of restrictions. I dont think people can continue with the measures that were imposed. They were quite rightly strict, but there has to be a little bit of easing up now.

I do think that the majority of people have been amazing they have really stuck with the hand washing and the social distancing. I just think its now really important that we continue with it and not lose sight of the fact that COVID is still here.

Its really important that we continue with it and not lose sight of the fact that COVID is still here.

Of course, some people are also asymptomatic they might not know theyve got it and I think thats where the difficulty comes from. Seeing those pictures of people on the beaches recently was hard to see look at. I do understand peoples frustrations, but we all have to realise that the threat is still here, and we all have to take a little bit of responsibility. Its vital that we all keep following the Government guidelines of hand washing and social distancing. The guidelines are there for a reason.

Last updated: 11-08-2020

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What its like to be a critical care nurse working on the front lines of COVID-19 - Netdoctor

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) - So many are feeling the stress of the ongoing pandemic.

Like Dr. Shilagh Mirgain, local health professionals said many people are engaging in "risky" behavior because of the pandemic. A big part of that is peer pressure.

Shilagh Mirgain, Ph.D., is a Senior Psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health.

"We're finding that in the summer, people start to get relaxed and engage in maybe some risky things that they would not have before the pandemic first started. One of the contributing factors to that is peer pressure," said Mirgain. "We know that we adopt healthy lifestyle practices when those in our peer group or social surroundings are also adopting them. It is so important to foster some acceptance and meaning, to think about letting go of any old normal, recognizing things aren't returning to normal any time soon, and a way of doing that is thinking in the future a year or two now,'How will I want to look back at this time.'"

Dr. Mirgain said when people set goals to eat healthily, get some exercise in, and focus on the good happening in their lives, those habits can be the "north-star" to leading a path to a better life and future.

You can learn more about Dr. Mirgain and more of her professional tips here.

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Local health officials give advice to those dealing with the stress of the pandemic - WXOW.com

The pandemic is posing challenges for the more than 460 veterans treatment courts across the country. The courts seek to rehabilitate veterans charged with nonviolent crimes, rather than put them behind bars.

Stephanie Colombini reports on how veterans treatment courts are functioning during the pandemic.

Forest Hensley just completed a five-phase program through Tampa's Veterans Treatment Court. The former Marine was ordered to participate in substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, and community service after he was arrested for driving under the influence in 2018.

But Hensley, 33, wasn't able to celebrate the completion of the program the way other veterans have.

Rather than family and friends packing into a courtroom to cheer him as a judge led a graduation ceremony, Hensley's big moment happened quietly on Zoom.

"I was looking forward to going and standing in front of a judge this time because I knew I was doing what I was supposed to be doing," said Hensley. "The human contact portion of [the pandemic] has been really rough."

Hensley is among hundreds of veterans whose cases in Veterans Treatment Courts were affected by the pandemic. Those courts have become common across the country, serving a growing number of former service members. The courts are designed to steer veterans into rehabilitation and treatment - rather than prison - if they run into trouble with the law.

Because the courts typically center on in-person interaction, many temporarily shut down when the pandemic began. Some have moved to virtual court sessions and treatments.

For Hensley, the change meant a longer wait before he could demonstrate to the judge he was ready to graduate the program. He said the online treatment wasn't always easy, but he pushed forward with his recovery.

"It started to become very automatic for me to live a sober, healthy lifestyle," said Hensley. "I'm also a very technological kind of guy, I like computers, phones, tablets and stuff like that, so integrating Zoom meetings into my life has been a lot easier."

The Tampa court resumed virtually in June, and a month later, Hillsborough County Circuit Judge Michael Scionti graduated Hensley from the program during a virtual docket where he also reviewed dozens of other veterans' cases. He promised Hensley that when it was safe to host an in-person ceremony again, he would get the fanfare he deserved, along with a minted coin traditionally given to all graduating vets to commemorate their achievement.

Some veterans are struggling

Hensley is one of the court's many success stories. The Tampa court has reported single-digit recidivism rates since 2017.

But during the same virtual court session, Judge Scionti heard from other vets who were struggling.

They said the coronavirus was taking a toll on their mental health, causing financial problems, and making it hard to make required appointments. Others admitted using drugs and alcohol again.

Scionti, who is also a lieutenant colonel and commands a unit within the Army Reserves' Judge Advocate General Corps, ordered more supervision for those who slipped up. But he said he knows he has to be flexible during this challenging time.

"You won't find me putting somebody in jail because they have relapsed because of their addition," Scionti said. "I need them to be honest, I need them to trust the court."

The veterans in Scionti's court are helped by a whole team of people, who in addition to providing health care also help vets secure jobs, housing, and VA benefits.

In a rare example of a silver lining to the coronavirus, one of those community partners hired some veterans in the program, including Hensley, to help manage one of the county's COVID-19 isolation centers.

Other veterans volunteer as mentors to help support vets through their recovery and hold them accountable if they lose their way.

Marine Corps veteran Camellia Simmons, 38, has been a mentor for the past year. She previously went through the program herself.

"I've been homeless, without a job, battling substance abuse and depression," she said. "It can be a struggle, especially when you feel like you're in it by yourself, and that's why I think it's important to have a mentor program because it's kind of like a battle buddy."

Simmons has supported several battle buddies since becoming a mentor, but said she had to work a little harder to make sure the veteran she's helping now is doing okay because of the pandemic.

Simmons no longer can see her regularly and pick up on body language if there are issues she isn't letting on. Instead, Simmons tries to get her on the phone to at least get a sense of her tone.

"We're all so quick to text, but just hearing their voice really helps," said Simmons.

Retired Army Col. DJ Reyes, the mentor coordinator, said going virtual has challenged the relationship component of the court, but said at least it keeps people connected.

"It's our new normal, it's very dynamic, but I think we're starting to feel comfortable the more and more we do it," he said.

Staying connected

Reyes said most vets have adapted to virtual court, but others lack technology. Leaders have had to think of creative ways to stay in touch.

He said they've told vets who don't have their own Internet access to go to a public library and use their allotted time on a free computer to dial into Zoom meetings and telehealth appointments.

In an even more extreme case, mentors had to track down one veteran, who due to financial problems no longer had a cell phone, through a friend they had contact information for.

Reyes said the court recently started using community donations to buy smartphones with basic plans for vets in need of a way to communicate virtually.

That highlights one of the challenges Reyes said veterans treatment courts across the country face: funding.

Most rely on a combination of state and local dollars, fundraising, and volunteers to stay afloat. And that was before the pandemic put future budgets in question.

Reyes said he's fairly confident the Tampa court, which is one of the largest in the country, will be okay, but he said he's concerned about smaller courts that constantly have to battle for funding.

Reyes is also on the board of the National Veterans Court Alliance and helped lobby Congress for federal aid.

"This is a case where we want big brother to get involved because this is a national problem," he said.

Congress recently passed the Veterans Treatment Court Coordination Act, which will establish a program within the Department of Justice to provide grants, training, and technical assistance to new and existing courts. The Department of Veterans Affairs will help coordinate.

"To be able to provide technology so that these cases can be followed more closely than they would be otherwise, I think is a big component," said U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist (D-Fla.) who sponsored the bill.

Congress allocated about $30 million for veteran's courts nationally, which Col. Reyes said likely won't come out to much once divided up. But he said every dollar counts as courts work to make it through the pandemic.

This story was produced by the American Homefront Project, a public media collaboration that reports on American military life and veterans. Funding comes from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

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The Pandemic Is Affecting Veterans Courts, Making It Harder For Vulnerable Vets To Get Treatment - WUNC