This article has been reviewed according to ScienceX's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

fact-checked

peer-reviewed publication

trusted source

proofread

close

A new UCLA Health study found Kundalini yoga provided several benefits to cognition and memory for older women at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, including restoring neural pathways, preventing brain matter decline, and reversing aging and inflammation-associated biomarkersimprovements not seen in a group who received standard memory training exercises.

The findings, published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, are the latest in a series of studies led by UCLA Health researchers over the past 15 years into the comparative effects of yoga and traditional memory enhancement training on slowing cognitive decline and addressing other risk factors of dementia.

Led by UCLA Health psychiatrist Dr. Helen Lavretsky of the Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, this latest study sought to determine whether Kundalini yoga could be used early on to prevent cognitive decline and trajectories of Alzheimer's disease among postmenopausal women.

Women have about twice the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to men due to several factors, including longer life expectancy, changes in estrogen levels during menopause, and genetics.

In the new study, a group of more than 60 women ages 50 and older who had self-reported memory issues and cerebrovascular risk factors were recruited from a UCLA cardiology clinic. The women were divided evenly into two groups. The first group participated in weekly Kundalini yoga sessions for 12 weeks, while the other group underwent weekly memory enhancement training during the same time period. Participants were also provided daily homework assignments.

Kundalini yoga is a method that focuses on meditation and breathwork more so than physical poses. Memory enhancement training developed by the UCLA Longevity Center includes a variety of exercises, such as using stories to remember items on a list or organizing items on a grocery list, to help preserve or improve the long-term memory of patients.

Researchers assessed the women's cognition, subjective memory, depression, and anxiety after the first 12 weeks and again 12 weeks later to determine how stable any improvements were. Blood samples were also taken to test for gene expression of aging markers and for molecules associated with inflammation, which are contributing factors to Alzheimer's disease. A handful of patients were also assessed with MRIs to study changes in brain matter.

Researchers found the Kundalini yoga group participants saw several improvements not experienced by the memory enhancement training group. These included significant improvement in subjective memory complaints, prevention of brain matter declines, increased connectivity in the hippocampus, which manages stress-related memories, and improvement in the peripheral cytokines and gene expression of anti-inflammatory and anti-aging molecules.

"That is what yoga is good forto reduce stress, to improve brain health, subjective memory performance, and reduce inflammation and improve neuroplasticity," Lavretsky said.

Among the memory enhancement training group, the main improvements were found to be in the participants' long-term memory.

Neither group saw changes in anxiety, depression, stress or resilience, though Lavretsky stated this is likely because the participants were relatively healthy and were not depressed.

While the long-term effects of Kundalini yoga on preventing or delaying Alzheimer's disease require further study, Lavretsky said the study demonstrates that using yoga and memory training in tandem could provide more comprehensive benefits to the cognition of older women.

"Ideally, people should do both because they do train different parts of the brain and have different overall health effects," Lavretsky said. "Yoga has this anti-inflammatory, stress-reducing, anti-aging neuroplastic brain effect which would be complimentary to memory training."

More information: Adrienne Grzenda et al, Cognitive and immunological effects of yoga compared to memory training in older women at risk for alzheimer's disease, Translational Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02807-0

Journal information: Translational Psychiatry

Read more from the original source:
Yoga provides unique cognitive benefits to older women at risk of Alzheimer's disease, study finds - Medical Xpress

4 min read

Visualize interfaces interwoven in the fabric of our existence where thoughts execute operations and technology magnifies our intellect.

Transhumanism, the merger of humans and technology designed to surpass our limitations, has stopped being a futuristic dream. It is changing fast, and UX/UI designers are poised to be amid this brain-twisting evolution.

So, what is Transhumanism all about?

Transhumanism is a movement aimed at extending the borders of human capabilities. Consider brain-computer interfaces that enable you to change objects using nothing but thoughts (think Professor X!) , wearable technology that keeps tabs on your health and emotions in real-time, and augmented reality in which the digital and physical dimensions flawlessly merge. Sounds pretty wild ?

Hold on, it gets wilder:

And this is happening right now. For example, consider some of these companies paving the path for yet to grow Brain-Computer Interface (BCI).

However, these are just a window into the wide world of companies that are breaking the boundaries between humans and machines. It is no longer about the future but a present requiring a second design thinking revolution.

What do UX/UI designers have to do with it?

The interfaces we design today will mold the transhuman future, we will make. We owe it to weigh that this future is inclusive, ethical and brings good to all humans. So,

Start learning: Jump into the transhumanism world with some resources you can find in the links below. Comprehend the technology, ethics, and societal issues.

Think outside the box: Dont submit to the tyranny of screens and keyboards. Investigate new technologies and visualize how they could be applied to produce engaging, intuitive, and ethical experiences.

Emphasize empathy: As humans are getting integrated with technology, the understanding of our needs in the emotional domain is gaining even more importance. Develop interfaces that are and will be sensitive to us as we evolve.

Collaborate with other disciplines:This is not a single-handed venture! Develop unique designs in partnership with neuroscientists, ethicists, and other professionals.

So, how is this different from the way we design in the modern times?

Its a paradigm shift! For example, say you are moving from planning for specific smartphone users to creating solutions for augmented humans, who communicate with the world by thought, gesture, or by streaming information directly. The main objective here is to come up with adaptive interfaces that are able to accommodate the unique needs and capacities of every individual which is far outside the one-size-fits-all model.

Think about it: Now we develop software for tracking applications for the fitness trackers which can read our heartbeat. The transhuman future would enable us to create interfaces that directly speak to our nervous system and provide us with personalized health interventions in real-time. It is an all different ball game!We are the authors of our future pattern.

Are you ready to leave the screen and create something for the new human evolution?

References:

Reading Suggestions:

Additional Resources:

The blog post is only the starting point. I suggest you investigate the references and reading lists I have provided to develop your knowledge of transhumanism and its effects on UI/UX design. Please, bear in mind that future is not carved in granite. We have the ability to make it what we want, and with careful design, the transhuman future will be one that is good for all of humanity.

Continued here:
Beyond Clicks and Screens: Designing for the Transhuman Future - Medium

Margareta Thomson, a professor of educational psychology in the NCState College of Education, recently released an edited book focused on motivation and engagement from an interdisciplinary perspective.

The book, entitled Motivation and Engagement in Various Learning Environments Interdisciplinary Perspectives and published by Information Age Publishing (IAP), brings together research studies from different domains related to students motivation, engagement and learning; parents experiences; and teachers involvement with novel interdisciplinary programs. The book compiles research on motivation and engagement in various domains, including STEM, literacy, design and computer science with a particular focus on interdisciplinarity as learning occurs across multiple domains and in various contexts, such as formal and informal education.

The book provides examples of studies discussing different modalities in designing and implementing innovative educational programs, inquiry-based learning and novel applications for instruction. Motivation and Engagement in Various Learning Environments appeals to a wide audience, including researchers, teachers, parents, students and education specialists, Thomson said.

In addition to chapters co-authored by Thomson, the book features chapters from contributing authors from around the world including the United Kingdom, Australia, Austria, Indonesia, Romania and the United States. The studies and projects described in the book were implemented in different countries and focus on how motivation is explored in various domains, taking into account several perspectives, specifically those of students, teachers and parents.

The projects can serve as models for similar studies and build a foundation for further research into interdisciplinary work, Thomson said.Thomsons research investigates teachers and students development, motivations and beliefs, particularly related to STEM learning. Work from her research has been published in major peer-review journals, and her research has been supported by prestigious funding agencies, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She is a recipient of the University Faculty Scholars Award at NCState University, and a Fulbright Scholar Award from the U.S. Fulbright Commission.

Read more:
Professor Margareta Thomson Explores Interdisciplinary Perspectives in Motivation and Engagement in Edited Book - NC State College of Education News

David Schoenfield, ESPN Senior WriterFeb 15, 2024, 02:04 PM ET

TAMPA, Fla. -- The New York Yankees managed to avoid their first losing season since 1992, but Gerrit Cole admitted that "disaster" was an appropriate word to describe missing the postseason for the first time since 2016.

"Certainly there were injuries that were outside the normal realm of injuries that impacted us," Cole said Thursday as the Yankees opened camp for pitchers and catchers. "With that said, we get injured too much as a group. We need to improve."

While Cole went 15-4 with a 2.63 ERA to win his first Cy Young Award, first-year starter Clarke Schmidt was the only other pitcher to make at least 20 starts. Carlos Rodon, signed to a $162 million contract, missed time with a forearm strain and back problems and made just 14 starts, posting a 6.85 ERA. Nestor Cortes, an All-Star in 2022, made 12 starts with a 4.97 ERA. Luis Severino, now with the New York Mets, had a 6.65 ERA across 18 starts.

Rodn and Cortes, who was sidelined by a strained left rotator cuff, are throwing to hitters.

"A lot of things have to go right," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. "Start with health. You know, you're going to have your health challenges here and there. But hopefully, for the most part, especially a lot of your core guys can go to the post regularly. I mean, that's an important factor."

2 Related

The Yankees finished 18th in the majors with a 4.44 rotation ERA last season, after ranking fourth in 2022.

"Still fresh in our minds, so hopefully we use it as motivation," Cole said of the team's 82-80 record.

Cole was proud that the team fought to maintain the streak of winning seasons. The Yankees were four games under .500 at the end of August, but went 17-11 over the final month to keep the streak intact.

"Being hamstrung for a great part of the year, there was a lot of grit that showed," Cole said. "We have a 30-some consecutive year run of finishing over .500, so when the greater goals faded away, there was a little bit of a rallying factor around that.

"We're not going to be the team, regardless of the position we've been put it, to cash it in at the end of the year, so we continued to push. So there was an element of pride in that -- but obviously 'disaster' was an appropriate word."

The Yankees made a push to sign Yoshinobu Yamamoto before he ultimately went to the Los Angeles Dodgers, but New York did sign Marcus Stroman as a free agent, creating a top five of Cole, Rodon, Cortes, Stroman and Schmidt -- certainly a rotation that has a chance to be one of the best in the game if it can stay healthy.

"The top four guys are former All-Stars. Clarke Schmidt had a career year last year and is looking to go on a really solid innings buildup and a solid body of work," Cole said. "... Certainly excited to see what the rest of the rotation and the top five guys can do.

"There are no sleeper games in the AL East. When we come to town, the lights are on and there is a high level of play and you expect things to come up and you have to manage those things. From a personal standpoint, it's a focus of mind to get out there for as many games as possible."

Of course, the biggest addition was the trade for outfielder Juan Soto, who hit .275/.410/.519 with 35 home runs for the San Diego Padres -- including .307 with 23 home runs on the road. The Yankees also traded for outfielders Alex Verdugo and Trent Grisham, two more left-handed hitters to help balance a lineup that swung too much to the right side the past few seasons.

"It seems like it was a really focused plan," Cole said. "We added three left-handed bats who acquired 500 or more plate appearances in the past three years, which everyone kind of identified as something we should improve on. We also added great defense and great pitching.

"You can never have enough good players and that's why it's special to be a Yankee. That's the M.O. every offseason -- to continue to get better."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Read the original:
Gerrit Cole hoping Yankees use 2023 'disaster' as motivation - ESPN

Mental Health Monday: Self care tips to help combat the winter blues  FOX 2 Detroit

See the original post:
Mental Health Monday: Self care tips to help combat the winter blues - FOX 2 Detroit

Going vegan in 1987, advised by Dick Gregory, may have almost doubled Dexter Kings lifespan in long fight against cancer

MALIBU, CaliforniaDexter Scott King, 62, second son of Martin Luther King Jr., influential for more than 35 years in boosting vegetarianism and veganism among African-Americans, on the morning of January 22, 2024 transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with me in Malibu, his wife Leah Weber King said in a media statement distributed by the Atlanta-based Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Social Change.

Dexter Scott King and Leah Weber King had been married since 2013.

Dexter King died from prostate cancer, a disease he apparently fought for most of his life.

He gave it everything and battled this terrible disease until the end. As with all the challenges in his life, he faced this hurdle with bravery and might, Leah Weber King said.

According to a 1997 profile by Kevin Sack of the Tampa Bay Times, Dexter King dropped out of his fathers alma mater, Morehouse College, because of an illness he will not discuss. He said the condition became manageable after he adopted a vegan diet and took a journey of self-discovery.

In 1987 Dexter King visited a health spa that athlete, comedian, and activist Dick Gregory founded in the Bahamas.

(See Dick Gregory, 50 years a vegan activist, dies at 84.)

Influenced by Gregory, On January 30, 1988, my twenty-seventh birthday, I became a strict vegetarian. I developed a passion for health and nutrition, Dexter King testified in 2003. My diet consists of fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and legumes only, and has for the past 15 years now.

His family mother Coretta Scott King, sisters Bernice and Yolanda, and brother Martin Luther III greeted his new regimen with curiosity, wrote Jill Howard Church in 1995 for Vegetarian Times.

My family has always been very open-minded, said Dexter King, but certainly [veganism] was not their orientation. They were not sure what to think.

When I first became a vegetarian, I was very self-righteous about it, Dexter King added. As Ive aged and become more seasoned with time, Ive mellowed. The best testimonial is the proof in the pudding.

Part of that proof was that Dexter Kings mother, Coretta Scott King (1927-2006), also persuaded by her lifelong friend Barbara Reynolds, became vegan in 1995 and remained vegan for the last 12 years of her life, as did several of her other friends.

Among them was Rosa Parks (1913-2005), whose 1955 refusal to give up her seat on a bus to a white man in Montgomery, Alabama, led to her arrest and touched off a boycott of the city-owned bus company led by Martin Luther King Jr., then a young local minister.

This led to the November 1955 U.S. Supreme Court decision that abolished segregation in public transportation, was among the first major victories of the 20th century civil rights movement, and projected Martin Luther King Jr. to national prominence.

I was not in the practice of eating a lot of meat, Rosa Parks explained.

In childhood, she said, We had peach, apple, plums. We would go into the woods and eat blackberries. It was not hard at all for me to not eat meat.

Adds the Vegetarians of Washington website, Among her favorite vegetables were broccoli, greens, sweet potatoes and string beans.

Deeply involved in the affairs of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Social Change, and quiet by nature, Dexter King except in that 1995 Vegetarian Times article relatively seldom spoke in public about veganism and animal advocacy.

Though noted in passing seven times in Dexter Kings 2004 memoir Growing Up King, his beliefs about animals and food were usually mentioned by others almost as a footnote to articles focused on the legacies of his father, Martin Luther King Jr., and, sometimes, Dick Gregory.

But Dexter King made his views clear to Jill Howard Church.

Veganism has given me a higher level of awareness and spirituality, Dexter King said, primarily because the energy associated with eating has shifted to other areas.

If you are violent to yourself by putting [harmful] things into your body that violate its spirit, it will be difficult not to perpetuate that [violence] onto someone else, Dexter King added.

Dexter King also observed that, Women in general are probably more sensitive to their health needs and sensitive to what they eat. Men generally are not as concerned.

I dont know a heck of a lot of African-Americans who are vegetarian, Dexter King admitted, but I know more who are becoming aware.

That was 28 years before his death.

By then the downtown Atlanta neighborhood surrounding the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Social Change had become one of the national hubs of the fast-growing African-American vegan/vegetarian movement.

Traci Thomas, who founded the Black Vegetarian Society of Georgia in 2002, the first of an international string of Black Vegetarian Societies, credited Dick Gregory rather than Dexter King with inspiring her to give up meat in 1994, but when in Atlanta, Dexter King was a regular customer at the tiny Black Vegetarian Society of Georgia restaurant.

Thomas was among the first vegansof any ethnicityto win national media notice as a vegan teacher and advocate without initially achieving celebrity as an athlete, entertainer, or spiritual leader. Her 2002 recommendation of corn on the cob as a simple vegan focal food for summer picnics won extensive notice in Midwestern small town newspapers that might never before have published the word vegan.

Thomas followed up by popularizing vegan recipes consisting of five ingredients or fewer, to appeal to anyone whose time for shopping and cooking is limited.

Later, fellow Atlanta resident Pinky Cole founded her Slutty Vegan burger counter in the neighborhood.

Slutty Vegan became the place to be seen waiting, especially if youre an African-American celebrity, observed New York Timesreporter Kim Severson on July 1, 2019.

Since then, the vegan burger restaurant has expanded successfully to five locations serving majority African-American neighborhoods around Atlanta; Athens and Columbus, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; and Brooklyn and Harlem in New York City.

Dexter King meanwhile established himself as a businessman on another front.

After succeeding his mother as both the head of the King Center for Social Change and executor of Dr. Kings estate, Dexter King quickly consolidated control over the familys social agenda and financial affairs, recounted Kevin Sack of the Tampa Bay Times.

Dexter Kings first tenure heading the King Center, in 1989, was brief, as his initial attempts to exercise leadership met intense opposition from within.

When Dexter King returned, in 1994, the King Center was reportedly almost bankrupt.

Since then, with halting, often awkward steps, Sack wrote in his 1997 profile, Dexter King has cobbled together a vision for preserving his fathers legacy that relies more on the Internet and intellectual property rights than on the cause-oriented mission that Mrs. King established for the King center in 1968.

In many ways, Sack observed, the transition from mother to son has highlighted the generational differences between the marchers and dreamers of the civil rights era and the deal makers and realists of today.

An early bizarre misstep was a March 1997 televised prison meeting with the terminally ill confessed Martin Luther King Jr. assassin James Earl Raywho later recanted his own testimony.

(See MLK assassin ex-wife Anna Ray busted for dog hoardingagain!)

Without any showing of evidence, summarized Sack, Dexter King declared that his family believed Ray innocent of any knowing involvement in the killing.

Dexter King later implicated President Lyndon B. Johnson in a government conspiracy, Sack continued, a theory promoted by Rays lawyer, William Pepper.

I have never seen myself the way the media has portrayed me, as a leader, Dexter King told Sack. Im not trying to have a constituency. Im not trying to be preachy or be on a pedestal. Im not trying to effect change on that level, not because its not something that should be done, but thats just not my best destiny.

Sack noted intense opposition or, at the very least, befuddlement, from civil rights veterans who marched at Dr. Kings side, from board members of the King Center, from the pulpit of the church where Dr. King, his father, and his maternal grandfather had been pastor, and from the liberal black editorial page editor of the Atlanta Constitution.

Lawsuits filed against Dexter King in 2008 by his sisterBernice Kingand brotherMartin Luther King III followed, including a case filed by Bernice King on behalf of the estate ofCoretta Scott King. All three lawsuits were settled out of court in 2009.

The Dexter King legacy as regards the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. may remain controversial for years to come.

His best destiny, meanwhile, may be a statistic: when Dexter King became vegan in 1988, only about 3% of Americans of European descent were vegans and vegetarians, and barely 1% of Americans of African descent.

Today the percentage of Americans of European descent who are vegans or vegetarians is still only about 3%, but the percentage of Americans of African descent who are vegans or vegetarians is at 8% and rapidly growing.

Continued here:

Vegan advocate Dexter King, son of Martin Luther King Jr., dies at 62 - Animals 24-7

bowl of sea moss - epalinsk/Shutterstock

In the realm of vegan and vegetarian cooking, sea moss gel is a lesser-known ingredient that can actually be a lifesaver when veganizinggelatin-based recipes. Picture a scenario where you're hosting a gathering of friends, some of whom follow a plant-based lifestyle. You might decide to whip up a delicious dessert, perhaps a pudding or a creamy panna cotta, but you know that gelatin is derived from animal bones. Opting for sea moss gel instead not only ensures that the dish remains vegan- or vegetarian-friendly, but also introduces a rich source of minerals and nutrients.

Also known as "Irish moss," sea moss is a nutrient-dense aquatic vegetable similar to seaweed that is commonly harvested from the Atlantic Ocean. It's a species of red algae called Chondrus crispus. Irish moss has grown to be a cult favorite in the vegan community thanks to a derivative product known as sea moss gel, which acts as a versatile and nutritious thickening agent for various recipes, from gummy candies to mousses and other dishes traditionally reliant on gelatin.

Sea moss gel is the perfect gelatin dupe thanks to a natural compound called carrageenan, which is responsible for its gelling properties.This thickener createsa signature jiggly gelatin texture without compromising on flavor or ethical considerations. That being said, you may have also heard of agar-agar, a similar gelatin substitute also derived from seaweed. The two ingredients have a few key differences.

Read more: What These Imitation Foods Are Actually Made Of

When it comes to gelatin substitutes, agar-agar might be the more familiar ingredient on the vegan and vegetarian scene. Similar to sea moss gel, agar is derived from seaweed and is free of animal byproducts like collagen, found in traditional gelatin. Agar primarily comes from the Gracilaria species of red algae, while sea moss gel, as said before, is made from the Chondrus crispus species.The preparation methods for these two ingredients also differ. Sea moss gel is typically made by washing, soaking, and then blending the threads of moss, while agar is most often removed from the seaweed and then synthesized into a powder or flakes before it is sold.

Story continues

So why use sea moss gel over agar? Sea moss gel not only boasts natural gelling properties, but also a wealth of essential nutrients, including minerals and antioxidants. Unlike agar, which undergoes more processing, sea moss gel provides a more "fresh" and minimally-processed option, for those of us concerned about processed foods. Sea moss is also considered to be softer than agar and easier to melt, making it a better choice when making recipes likechocolate mousse or ice cream. Agar is known to add a more firm or brittle texture to gelled desserts, which is fine if you're not after a super-soft and wobbly result, but too much agar can actually make foods seem hard and possibly unpleasant.

Sea moss has developed something of a cult following online, with loyalists touting its miracle ability to help with clear skin, immune support, and other health benefits. Experts agree that there are solid nutritional benefits to ingesting sea moss, either in gel form, or as a supplement or a liquid drop. Vitamins such as A, B, C, and E are plentiful in the product, as registered dietician nutritionist Samar Kullab told CNBC. These nutrients can help to reduce inflammation and support both heart and gut health.

Sea moss gel can evenhelp balance the thyroid gland, although individuals with thyroid issues should stick to one serving per day and check with their health care providers. "Sea moss contains iodine which helps regulate your thyroid function," Kullab explained. "And iodine is something that our bodies can't produce, so we do have to ingest it."

However, beware of "miracle food" claims regarding sea moss, which can be exaggerated.Dr. Melinda Ring, the executive director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, told The New York Times,"It's just not a magical thing that everyone should be taking," as it has not been studied in clinical trials. It's best to view sea moss gel as a great gelatin substitute that also carries a nutrient boost, rather than a sort of cure-all ingredient.

Read the original article on Daily Meal.

Read the rest here:

Sea Moss Gel Is A Slept-On Ingredient For Vegan Gelatin - Yahoo Canada Shine On

As we approach day 19 of the new year, many individuals may be experiencing a dip in motivation when it comes to their New Year's resolutions. Addressing this common challenge, Coach Q, a renowned fitness expert and regular guest on The Rashad Richey Morning Show, shares valuable insights on how to stay motivated and achieve fitness goals.

During the recent Fitness Friday segment, Coach Q references an article from Harvard Business Review, which delves into the topic of motivation. He advises setting easily attainable goals as a way to sustain motivation, particularly for individuals aiming to start a fitness routine. "Just show up," he advises, highlighting the transformative impact that regular attendance can have on one's physical well-being.

Coach Q emphasizes that short-term goals, such as consistently attending fitness classes or engaging in daily exercise, can yield significant results and serve as powerful motivators. Instead of fixating on long-term weight loss goals, he encourages listeners to focus on the process of consistently showing up and making progress. Building on this notion, Chris Smith, the show's producer, highlights the importance of finding enjoyment in fitness activities. Coach Q echoes this sentiment and suggests exploring various fitness modalities that align with personal interests. Whether it's hiking, yoga, or spin classes, finding an activity that brings pleasure can significantly improve adherence to fitness routines.

The conversation also touches on overcoming negative thoughts and excuses related to exercise. Coach Q introduces the concept of "exercise snacks," which involves incorporating short bursts of physical activity throughout the day. By setting reminders to perform activities like squats or push-ups, individuals can make exercise a seamless part of their daily routine while boosting motivation.

In response to popular demand, Coach Q leads a live workout session during the segment. He guides listeners through a set of 10 standing squats, emphasizing the importance of proper form and engaging the core muscles. Highlighting the benefits of squats for alleviating knee, back, and hip pain, Coach Q suggests turning it into a squat challenge for listeners to participate in.

Before concluding the segment, Coach Q shares his contact information for those interested in his workout plans or seeking assistance. He urges individuals to set short-term goals, embrace consistency, and persevere in their fitness journey. With these practical tips and expert guidance, listeners are encouraged to stay motivated and committed to their health and wellness goals.

Dr. Rashad Richey, host of the award-winning Rashad Richey Morning Show on News & Talk 1380 WAOK/V-103FM (HD3) (Weekdays 7am -10am), and the Dr. Rashad Richey Review on SiriusXMs Urban View (Sundays at 1pm and 9pm), was voted 'Best Talk Radio Personality in Atlanta' by readers of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and named 'Most Trusted Voice in Atlanta' by the Atlanta Business Journal, making him the first African-American to receive these distinctions.

The intelligent and fearless television news anchor for the opinion news show, 'Indisputable with Dr. Rashad Richey on the TYT Network, which was named 'fastest growing TV news show in America', and Political Commentator for The People's Station V-103 FM, America's largest urban station, also serves as President of Rolling Out, the largest free-print urban publication in the country. This multimedia powerhouse with over 3-million combined subscribers/followers on Facebook Watch, YouTube, Podcasts, and Twitch combined, is a noted multidisciplinary academic scholar and university professor/lecturer and an Emmy-nominated television Political Analyst for CBS News Atlanta.

Believing in the power of knowledge and education, Dr. Richey holds several advanced degrees, making him one of the most academically credentialed individuals in American history according to America News Now. Completing doctoral research studies in federal policy reform from Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Richey also holds a PhD from the Business University of Costa Rica where his research and doctoral dissertation highlighted the nuances and intersectionality of politics, policy and religion.

Being a student of leadership, Dr. Richey completed studies in Executive Leadership at Cornell University and was accepted into a specialty executive law program at Harvard University in International Finance: Policy, Regulation, and Transactions. Understanding the connectivity of culture and science, Dr. Richey earned his Master of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Pacific, where his masters thesis researched cognitive functionalities of brain entrainment. Dr. Richey also completed a Master of Science in Applied Physics and Quantum Mechanics from Universidad Empresarial, his masters thesis was adapted into a book titled, Ancient Egyptian Mastery of Quantum Physics, Vibratory Frequency, and Geometric Sciences: An Overview of Complex Scientific Applications in Ancient Cultures, which quickly became the #1 Physics, #1 Science, #1 History, and #1 Egyptian Genre book on the Amazon platform.

Recently, Dr. Richey completed his Juris Doctor (law degree) from Renaissance University after transferring from Birmingham School of Law, where he attended for 2 years. He accepted the position as Director of Global Legal Operations for the multinational law firm, The International Law Group of Human & Civil Rights Attorneys P.C., also known as The Fairness Firm, with offices in the USA, Canada, France, Spain, and Cape Town Africa.

As host of The Rashad Richey Morning Show, Dr. Richey has interviewed everyone from Vice-President Kamala Harris to TI, and always brings relevant information, the best on-air debates, and most insightful interviews in media. Tune in every weekday morning from 7am-10am on News and Talk 1380-WAOK, V-103FM (HD3),www.WAOK.com, or on the Audacy App.

More:
Maintaining Motivation for New Years Resolutions - WAOK

Comparisons between Bitcoin and Ethereum have made the topic of many crypto debates, leading to many different conclusions. Bitcoin is the holder of many notable records and achievements, including being the first decentralized cryptocurrency established by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2009, the most valuable digital asset and the one that occupies the largest share in the cryptocurrency market. As a result, Ethereum, which was founded in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin, has always lived in Bitcoins shadow, alongside all the other digital currencies that emerged in its wake, forming the altcoin pack.

Historical cryptocurrency data reveals that the two assets have moved in tandem, with the flagship crypto dictating the price trajectory. Judging by the difference between the current Ethereum price and the Bitcoin price, the latter wins by a landslide. Ethereum always seems to be several steps behind Bitcoin, unable to pose a real threat to its dominance and yank it off its throne.

However, if we delve a bit deeper, we can see that the altcoin leader also showcases a series of strong suits and key metrics that place it at the top of the cryptocurrency hierarchy, in front of its longtime rival, and hodler count is one of the areas where Ethereum excels.

Ethereum hits record number of hodlers in 2023

2023 has been a good year for Ethereum for several reasons. The second-ranked crypto has been on an appreciation journey for the better part of the year, with a 20% gain in the last month and a 38% gain over the past 60 days. Apart from the considerable price increase, Ethereum has also seen a significant surge in hodler numbers.

Hodler is a popular crypto slang term that designates long-term holders of a cryptocurrency. These investors buy and hold onto assets regardless of price volatility, trusting their long-term value and their ability to weather market fluctuations.

According to IntoTheBlock data, addresses that have held Ether for more than 12 months currently make up 72% of all Ethereum holders, reaching the highest level since 2018. At the moment, Ethereum counts approximately 73.9 million long-term holders, after a 44.2% increase, while Bitcoins holder figures stand at 33.6 million.

Hodlers play an important role in the health and performance of digital assets. Coins backed by a large number of holders tend to be less susceptible to market volatility and are generally perceived as more resilient and trustworthy. So, the fact that Ethereums holder community is growing is certainly a positive development for the network.

In addition, Ethereum also outclasses Bitcoin in terms of whales, which refers to persons or entities that own a large amount of a single cryptocurrency, between 1000 and 10,000 coins. By the latest count, the number of Ethereum whale addresses has recently reached 5,370, marking a 12% yearly increase, while Bitcoin whale wallets amount to 1,920.

This proves that Bitcoin is not the only coin boasting record-breaking performances in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Ethereum outshines the original crypto in many ways, so even though theres still a huge price discrepancy between the two, the top altcoin continues to attract an increasing number of investors.

What prompted Ethereums holder increase?

Not too long ago, Bitcoin used to hold supremacy in hodler numbers as well. Whats more, both Bitcoin and Ethereum have had impressive runs this year and recorded increases in their hodler metrics. So, what exactly caused the tables to turn and lead to such a notable disparity between the two assets?

Ethereums surge in long-term holders can be attributed to a series of factors. One of the most likely causes for the increase is the rise in Ethereum staking registered this year. The amount of staked Ether has nearly doubled since the beginning of 2023, with roughly 24% of all Ethereums circulating supply being locked in staking deposits. Since most staked funds remained untouched for more than 12 months, this led to a major rise in the Holder Ratio.

However, there are other factors that have contributed to the phenomenon which have to do with the purpose and the evolution of the two crypto projects. On one hand, Bitcoin has continued to operate as a deflationary store of value and a peer-to-peer form of digital money, so it hasnt strayed away from its original purpose and use cases.

On the other hand, Ethereum has undergone massive transformations since its launch back in 2013. Designed by Vitalik Buterin as a programable blockchain, Ethereum started its journey as a platform that enables the deployment of decentralized apps (dApps). However, over the years and after multiple upgrades and updates, the Ethereum ecosystem expanded considerably, with applications and use cases spanning across many other areas, including gaming, decentralized finance (DeFi), and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

Bitcoin is clearly more established and mainstream than Ethereum, having a longer track record in the market and being superior in terms of price performance and scalability. Ethereum is in a weaker position from this point of view, but price action is not the only aspect that attracts investors and drives crypto adoption.

The fact that Ethereum boasts a diversity of use cases and represents a hub for innovation in the crypto sphere has caught the eye of stakeholders and that has led to an increase in hodler numbers.

The Ethereum network also seems to respond better to the changing needs and demands of market participants. The Merge and Shapella upgrades, which saw Ethereum switch from a proof-of-work (PoW) consensus protocol to a proof-of-stake (PoS) mechanism, stand as proof of Ethereums adaptability, flexibility and its constant focus on innovation. These attributes have turned it into a decentralized blockchain powerhouse and continue to draw in more investors and holders.

Final thoughts

Ethereums record number of long-term holders might not be enough to steal the leader position from Bitcoin, so its rather premature to make assumptions about a potential flippening in the near future. However, changes in this key metric serve as an indicator of Ethereums strength and potential and are worth taking into account by crypto enthusiasts.

Here is the original post:

Ethereum's record number of hodlers downgrades Bitcoin to second place - Baltic Times

Each twin pair was divided into different dietary regimes. One sibling followed a strict vegan diet, eliminating all meat, seafood, eggs, and dairy. In contrast, their twin consumed an omnivore diet, which included both plant-based foods and animal products. The findings of this study are quite significant. Over the course of eight weeks, the twins on plant-based diets showed remarkable health improvements. These supposedly included increased life expectancy, reduced visceral fat, a lower risk of heart disease, and even an enhanced sex drive. These results highlight the potential health benefits of a vegan diet, making a compelling case for considering a plant-based lifestyle.

The plant-based diet has become more and more popular over recent years. The Good Food Institute reported that, in 2021, the market for plant-based foods expanded at a rate triple that of the overall food industry. This study encompassed a variety of plant-based alternatives, including products like milk, eggs, cheese, meat, yogurt, butter, and creamers. The Harris Poll in 2016, 2019, and 2020 found that about 3% of Americans were vegan, but as of 2022, that increased to 5%.

Its no surprise that documentaries like You Are What You Eat are becoming more and more popular. But is there any truth to the claims? Is veganism really healthier for us than all other diets?

Max Lugavere, nutrition expert and author of Genius Foods, broke it down on X so people could really understand the context of this new documentary. The lead researcher behind the study is funded by Beyond Meat, he writes. Its right there in the paper. Thats a huge red flag as it is, but Lugavere was willing to give the program the benefit of the doubt until he discovered more.

The study proved there was a small decrease in LDL in the group of vegans. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a type of cholesterol often referred to as bad cholesterol. It's composed of fat and protein, transporting cholesterol to various parts of the body. High levels of LDL can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow and potentially leading to heart diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, maintaining a healthy level of LDL is crucial for cardiovascular health, as elevated LDL levels significantly increase the risk of heart-related ailments. Managing LDL often involves diet, exercise, and sometimes medication.

Plant-based activists love to fixate on LDL and claim that the vegan diet significantly lowers it, but Lugavere points out that the decrease in LDL in this particular study was most likely because the vegan twins ate fewer calories and more fiber while also eating less saturated fat. You could easily achieve this with a diet that includes meat, he says.

An important factor that wasnt covered enough was the fact that there were different lifestyle factors between the twins, such as exercise habits and diet preferences. Its impossible to fully understand the context and impact of diet without also taking into account all the other lifestyle factors (even things like sleep and stress) that would affect someones overall health.

Overall, it was a short-term study (8 weeks), and the vegan diet did have drawbacks that are swept under the rug less protein, lower B12 intake, and lower dietary satisfaction, for example. We dont know how these changes would play out over the long term, Lugavere writes. We simply dont have enough information to make the broad claim that the vegan diet is best.

Viewers are also told that the beef and cattle industry is inherently evil and burning down the whole Amazon rainforest, all farmers are abusive to both the animals and land, and the fish you eat are parasitic and diseased. Of course, there may be some truth to these, but to claim that this is true across the board is obviously false. It may all seem harmless, but there are many women who are falling for the lies of veganism and its harming their health and fertility.

Miley Cyrus, a well-known animal enthusiast, has rescued numerous dogs and cares for a variety of animals at her properties in Nashville and Calabasas. A staunch advocate for animal rights, Miley has long been vocal about the ethical and health benefits of a vegan lifestyle. However, in a striking revelation during a 2020 interview on the Joe Rogan Experience, Miley announced that she had abandoned her vegan diet due to health concerns, particularly regarding her brain function.

Miley, who was 27 at the time, explained that despite being vegan from 2013 to 2019, she had to reintroduce fish and omega-3 fatty acids into her diet. My brain wasnt functioning properly, she confessed, indicating that the decision to alter her diet was not taken lightly. She acknowledged experiencing signs of malnutrition and felt that she was "running on empty," despite taking supplements and consuming protein shakes. Joe Rogan joked that Miley's departure from veganism might attract criticism from vegan activists. Miley responded with acceptance, indicating that her health was her priority over adhering to a diet that was not meeting her nutritional needs.

Miley's situation is not unique, as vegan diets can sometimes lead to various nutritional deficiencies. These can include low levels of vitamin B12, iron, and essential omega-3 fatty acids. By reintroducing fish and meat into her diet, Miley reported feeling sharper and more nourished.

Key nutrients that are often lacking in a vegan diet include zinc, iron, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and iodine.

A recent caution from fertility experts also suggests that a vegan diet might pose challenges for women attempting to conceive. Grace Dugdale, a reproductive biologist, acknowledges the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and legumes. However, she warns that the growing trend of veganism might lead to nutrient deficiencies detrimental to women's fertility. Key nutrients that are often lacking in a vegan diet include zinc, iron, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and iodine. These nutrients are crucial for reproductive health and are typically found in meat, oily fish, dairy, and white fish.

Dugdale, who advises infertile couples on nutrition, spoke at the Fertility Show in London, emphasizing the importance of adequate nutrition for conceiving. She understands the ethical and environmental motivations behind veganism but suggests that women with depleted nutrient levels might benefit from reintroducing a small amount of meat and fish into their diets. This advice is based on the fact that vegan diets, if not properly supplemented, can lead to low levels of vital nutrients necessary for the development of the baby.

Plant-based milks often lack iodine, a nutrient readily available in cow's milk. Similarly, while leafy green vegetables are a source of iron, the iron from these plants is not as easily absorbed by the body as the iron found in meat. Additionally, zinc and omega 3, both found in meat, are known to enhance men's sperm count and motility.

Rehan Salim, a consultant in gynecology and reproductive medicine at Imperial College Healthcare, also spoke at the Fertility Show. He advised women, especially those considering freezing their eggs, on the importance of protein in their diet, recommending the consumption of both meat and vegetables. Both Dugdale and Salim stress that men also require a balanced diet rich in these nutrients for the production of good quality sperm. Dugdale, along with Professor Adam Balen, has authored The Fertility Book, a guide to achieving a healthy pregnancy, which underscores the significance of proper nutrition in fertility for both men and women.

If someone insists on going vegan for ethical reasons, thats one thing, but its quite another to claim that the diet is healthier for everyone and will lead to better physical outcomes for us all. While there are certainly some people who do just fine on a vegan diet (at least temporarily), we have to figure out from an honest perspective whats best for ourselves, and that will rarely include an extreme elimination diet like veganism.

Support our cause and help women reclaim their femininity by subscribing today.

Read more from the original source:

The Latest Vegan Propaganda Just Dropped: You Are What You EatHere's What They Got Wrong - Evie Magazine