Be healthy with the latest information and tips on diet, nutrition, and natural medicine!

What You Need To Know About Alaskan Black Cod

Dive into the icy waters of Alaska’s vast wilderness as we explore one of the ocean’s most tantalizing secrets: the Alaskan black cod. This remarkable fish, also known as sablefish, is not just another item on your seafood platter. This fish navigates the depths of the North Pacific Ocean. It carries a rich history, intriguing biology, and unparalleled taste that chefs and foodies around the globe covet. What do you need to know about this extraordinary fish? Let’s peel back the layers of this elusive species to reveal why it’s considered the butter of the sea. It’s Not Actually Cod! Despite its name, Alaskan black cod is different than cod; it’s technically a sablefish. This naming confusion stems from historical and colloquial usage rather than accurate biological classification. True cod species, such as Atlantic cod and Pacific cod, belong to the family Gadidae and are known for their importance in the fishing industry and culinary world. In contrast, Alaskan black cod belongs to the family Anoplopomatidae and occupies a different niche within the marine ecosystem. This significant distinction reflects differences in habitat, behavior, and physical characteristics between true cods and Alaskan black cod. The latter’s deep-sea lifestyle, higher fat content, and softer flesh texture set it apart from its namesake. It’s Got Culinary Versatility Alaskan black cod pairs beautifully with a wide range of seasonings and cooking methods, whether grilled, smoked, broiled, or poached. This fish holds up well and absorbs flavors beautifully. It shines particularly well in dishes with bold Asian influences! Try the famous miso-marinated black cod, a dish that melds seamlessly with complex flavors. It Boasts Nutritional Benefits Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation; they are plentiful in Alaskan black cod! Additionally, this fish is a great source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. Incorporating black cod into your diet can offer numerous health benefits, aligning with a balanced and wholesome lifestyle. It’s Got a Taste All Its Own Alaskan black cod is renowned for its rich, buttery flavor. Its white meat is velvety smooth, with a delicate flakiness that melts in your mouth. This luxurious texture and sweet, mild taste make it highly sought after, especially for those who appreciate the finer nuances of seafood dining. It’s Fished Sustainably Harvested from the cold, clear waters of the Gulf of Alaska, this species is managed under strict regulations designed to protect the population. Anglers typically use longline methods, which involve baiting multiple hooks on a single line, to catch black cod. This technique minimizes bycatch, aligning with efforts to maintain ecological balance and support responsible fishing practices. Alaskan black cod offers a rich flavor as well as health benefits. By understanding what you need to know about its unique characteristics, you gain a deeper appreciation for what ends up on your plate and for the intricate balance of marine ecosystems.

2024-04-15T09:07:07-07:00By |

What Puts You at Risk for an E. Coli Infection?

E. coli, or Escherichia coli, is a type of bacteria that normally lives in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, others can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Understanding what puts you at risk for an E. coli infection will help you maintain your health and prevent potentially serious outcomes. Consumption of Contaminated Food One of the most common ways individuals contract an E. coli infection is through the consumption of contaminated food. Raw or undercooked meat, especially beef, is a significant risk factor. However, one of the myths and misconceptions about E. coli is that foods of bovine origin are the only source. E. coli can also be present in raw milk, unpasteurized dairy products, and fresh produce not properly washed. Ensuring that your food is cooked to the right temperatures and handling produce with care can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Contaminated Water Drinking or swimming in contaminated water also elevates the risk of an E. coli infection. This includes water from lakes, rivers, pools, and even municipal water supplies when they become contaminated. Boiling water or using water purification systems can help safeguard against E. coli in drinking water. Always avoid swallowing water when swimming in lakes or pools to minimize your risk. Poor Personal Hygiene Another factor that increases the risk of an E. coli infection is poor personal hygiene. Failing to wash hands thoroughly after using the bathroom or handling raw food can easily spread the bacteria. Therefore, regular handwashing with soap and water serves as a simple yet effective defense against E. coli. Close Contact With Infected Individuals or Animals Being in close contact with someone who has an E. coli infection or with animals that carry the bacteria can increase your risk. This is because E. coli can be transmitted through tiny fecal particles. If you understand what puts you at risk for an E. coli infection, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from this bacterium. Prevention is always better than the cure, so take the necessary precautions to stay healthy, and reach out to healthcare professionals if you do notice signs of infection.

2024-03-13T07:32:28-07:00By |

3 Best Hypoallergenic Dogs for People With Allergies

If you’re allergic to pet dander, you may assume you’ll never get to enjoy puppy cuddles or kisses—but think again! Hypoallergenic dogs can be ideal for people with allergies because they don’t shed as much as other breeds. Less shedding means less pet dander floating through the air and adhering to your upholstery. Keep in mind no dog is truly hypoallergenic, but some breeds release an amount of dander that’s low enough to not cause allergic reactions in humans. Continue reading to learn about the best hypoallergenic dogs for people with allergies. Bichon Frise The bichon frise is bred to be hypoallergenic, so it’s a great pick for people with allergies. These fluffy white dogs are also ideal for people who live in compact spaces or urban environments due to their small size and confidence. Bichons love children, so they also make great family dogs. Bichons have cheerful personalities and enjoy pleasing their owners, so expect a lot of tail wags. Bichons have adaptable personalities and get along well with other dogs, so if you already own a dog, a bichon may be the perfect addition to your family. With an alert and curious attitude, a bichon encounters friends everywhere they go. If you enjoy taking your dog on trips but are looking for ways to keep pet hair out of your truck or car, a hypoallergenic bichon is a great choice. Poodle Poodles are some of the most popular dogs in the United States as well as one of the best hypoallergenic dogs for people with allergies. Poodles fall into one of three categories: standard, toy, or miniature. The good news is, every version is hypoallergenic, so you can choose the size that best fits your lifestyle and activity level. Poodles have curly coats in black, white, or apricot. Although movies and television shows often portray them as prissy or high maintenance, they’re extremely athletic and versatile. Poodles are also incredibly smart, so they’re very easy to train. With a low-allergen coat and a sharp mind, a poodle makes a great companion for any dog-lover. Portuguese Water Dog If you’re looking for a medium-sized dog, a Portuguese water dog is a great option. In fact, former President Barack Obama owned two throughout his years at the White House. Portuguese water dogs are known for their curly, allergy-friendly coat as well as their laid-back, playful personalities. As the name suggests, Portuguese water dogs were bred to be fishermen’s helpers, so they have an athletic build that’s highly adaptable to water. Their extreme intellect and desire to please makes training a breeze. Plus, they’re comfortable in small living spaces if they receive enough exercise throughout the day. No matter what type of hypoallergenic dog breed you choose, you’ll enjoy the unconditional love and companionship that comes with being a dog-owner. At the end of a long day, there’s no greater feeling than walking through the front door and knowing someone is always excited to greet you.

2023-11-16T10:01:45-08:00By |

Ways To Make Getting Older Easier for Your Body

As people age, they must prioritize their well-being and take steps to ensure they can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life. Getting older doesn’t mean you have to settle for pain or discomfort—there are ways to make getting older easier for your body. With the right effort and time, you can spend your later years living to your heart’s content. Exercise Regularly Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for easing the effects of aging. It will be hard at first, but once you start exercising regularly, it will become easier and easier. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Don’t forget to warm up before starting your workout and cool down with stretching exercises afterward to prevent muscle stiffness and injuries. Manage Chronic Pain If you’re experiencing chronic pain, you should collaborate closely with your health-care provider. One common myth about chronic pain is that it’s unavoidable. In reality, treating your body well and maintaining good habits can help you better avoid it later down the line. When you fill your life with positive choices and act fast when you start noticing pain, you can keep chronic pain out of your life. Eat Healthily Nourishing your body with a balanced and nutrient-rich diet is key for coping with the effects of aging. Focus on consuming lean proteins, such as tofu and legumes, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporate whole grains like brown rice and quinoa for fiber and energy, and stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. Great hydrating drinks include water and herbal teas, but you can also eat hydrating foods, such as cucumbers and watermelon. Get Quality Sleep Quality sleep is essential for maintaining our health as we age. Strive for seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your body to recharge and rejuvenate. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness meditation, to promote better sleep. Also, ensure that your sleep environment is comfortable, cool, and dark to optimize sleep quality. High-quality sleep will go a long way in keeping your body charged and able to combat whatever challenges the next day brings. Remember, these tips serve as a foundation for making aging easier on your body. Prioritizing self-care now will lay the groundwork for many healthy and fulfilling years ahead. With proper care and attention, we can age gracefully and enjoy life to its fullest.

2023-09-27T11:10:07-07:00By |

Mistakes To Avoid When Recovering From a Health Emergency

Recovering from a health emergency can be an overwhelming and challenging process. By being mindful of the mistakes to avoid when recovering from a health emergency, you can achieve the best possible outcome during your recovery journey. It still won’t be easy, but you’ll be in a much better position than you will if you make these mistakes. Failing To Follow Medical Advice One common mistake that can hinder your recovery is not following medical advice. You must adhere to your doctor’s advice and recommendations. This means taking prescribed medications and following recommended treatments. Failing to do so can have serious repercussions and potentially worsen your condition. Remember, your health-care provider’s expertise is invaluable, so trust their guidance and comply with their instructions for the best possible outcome. Your commitment to following medical advice will greatly contribute to your recovery. Going to Bad Hospitals and Doctors Ensuring you receive high-quality care is paramount during your recovery journey. Conduct thorough research to identify reputable hospitals and doctors known for their excellence in providing medical services. Look for hospitals that have high patient satisfaction rates and positive reviews. Medical errors and less-than-great nurses and doctors are just a few signs your hospital is terrible and low-quality, and you should seek care elsewhere. If you’re not sure where to go, seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or health-care professionals. Additionally, consider checking hospital accreditation and doctor certifications to ensure they meet the necessary standards. Choosing the right health-care professionals who have a track record of success and expertise can help your recovery process go smoothly. Failing To Rest Adequate rest plays a pivotal role in the healing process after a health emergency. Your body needs sufficient time to recover and rejuvenate. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night to support healing and prevent further complications. During sleep, your body repairs damaged tissues, boosts the immune system, and replenishes energy levels. It’s also when the brain consolidates memories and processes emotions, promoting overall well-being. Not Taking Time To Heal Recovery is a gradual process that requires patience, self-care, and a mindful approach. Resist the temptation of rushing back to your normal activities too soon. By giving yourself ample time and space to heal, you allow your body to fully recover, rebuild, and regain its strength. Remember, the healing process is unique for each individual, and impatience can lead to setbacks. Prioritize self-care, listen to your body, and embrace the journey of healing. By remaining mindful of these common mistakes to avoid when recovering from a health emergency and taking proactive steps, you can enhance your chances of a successful recovery. Prioritize positive care and treatment and seek health support when necessary. When you do so, you’re paving the way for a smoother and more fulfilling road to recovery.

2023-09-26T07:14:25-07:00By |

Tips for Keeping Yourself Healthy This Year

Health is different for all people, but most people follow the same steps to achieve their health dreams. If you step back and take inventory of your life choices, you can discover how to keep yourself healthy this year. There will still be times when it’s more difficult, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can overcome these challenges and make healthy living attainable. Focus on Sleep One of the first things you must do to stay healthy is focus on your sleep. Sleep is one of the most important things everyone needs to get, but it gets harder as you get older and more variables get in the way. Additionally, beyond just the eight hours you need, you want that sleep to be high-quality. If you want to be healthy, you must pay special attention to your sleep, and that includes: Avoiding food and drink before bed Minimizing screen use Turning ambient lights off Finding your ideal sleep configuration If you can do these things and try to keep your sleep uninterrupted, you can get the quality sleep your body and brain need to stay healthy. Take Care of Your Physical Health... Sleep is important because it makes taking care of your physical health easier. Taking care of your physical health is two-fold, as you need to watch what you eat and take care of your body through exercise. Luckily, good sleep makes exercising easier. It’s important to take care of your physical health, and the best way to do that is by learning more about yourself, finding what works for you, and pursuing it. So try different self-care and eating habits until you find the right option for you. ...and Mental Health Finding the time and resources to manage your physical health is crucial, but there’s another aspect of your body you can’t neglect—your mental health. You need to pay special attention to your feelings. This year, set some goals for journaling or meditation, and if possible, consider talking to a therapist as well. With their expertise, they can help you take control of your mental health. Use Proper Safety Equipment In addition to focusing on sleep and the health of your entire body, you need to be careful with the choices you make when going outside of your comfort zone. For example, a great way to be active and boost your health includes riding a motorcycle. There’s a lot to love about these machines, but you need to focus on safety and use essential motorcycle safety equipment. Helmets are a must, but you should also find the right jacket, pants, and any other safety accessories you need. Whatever you’re out doing, whether it’s motorcycle riding, playing sports, or anything in between, be sure to get the right safety equipment to keep yourself safe and healthy. With the right knowledge and tools, you can keep yourself healthy this year. Yes, it will still take time and work, but once you create a [...]

2023-09-28T20:17:05-07:00By |

Tests You Should Get When You Want To Live a Healthy Life

Health looks different for every person, but there are a few common things everyone needs to do to achieve good health. People need to sleep well, exercise, get regular exposure to sunlight, and maintain a good diet with a strong blend of fats and protein. Still, there’s only so much you can do, and you may need a doctor’s help with some things. There are a few specific tests you should get when you want to live a healthy life. With the results, you and your doctor can pave the path forward for your health journey. Mental Health Tests A common form of test that everyone should investigate at one point or another is mental health tests. These tests come in numerous shapes and sizes because there are a large number of mental health conditions that people can have, and diagnosing each one is a different process. Many people will end up neglecting their mental health, even though they need to pay special attention to it. If you’re interested in some mental health tests, consult with a doctor or psychiatrist. They’ll have the right tests and can work with you so that you can learn more about yourself and get the care you need. STD Tests Regardless of your sexual preferences and activity, one of the best things you can do is get an STD test. Regular STD screenings are important for early detection, and when you know your own sexual health, you can live a healthy sexual lifestyle without worry. There’s the misconception that you can get STDs and STIs only from unprotected sex, but there are other ways of sharing these conditions. Some people even have them from birth, and they may not discover they have them until much later in life. If you want to live a healthy life and know that everything you do is safe, you should get tested. If you learn that you have a condition, you can get the necessary medical help to stop it in its tracks. Allergy Test Another kind of test you should consider is an allergy test. People can be allergic to all kinds of things, and the severity of their allergy can range from minimal irritation to life-threatening. For example, some people have slight allergies to pollen or cats, while others are allergic to gluten and lactose. If you want to stay healthy and protect yourself from allergens, you need to understand which ones are dangerous for you. These are a few of the tests you should get when you want to live a healthy life, but depending on your medical history, you may need to consider other ones too. Each person’s medical history and health are different, and the best way to know if you’re living a healthy life is by working with your doctor. They have the tools and expertise to get you the tests you need so that you can take care of yourself and stay healthy.

2023-08-22T10:27:45-07:00By |

Genius Tips and Tricks To Achieve Better Sleep

No one wants to toss and turn at night. Unfortunately, poor sleep can lead to grumpy days and an endless cycle of insomnia. Reclaim your rest with these genius tips and tricks to achieve better sleep! Address Sleep Disruptions There are various culprits for bad sleep, from noisy neighbors to back pain. It’s important to address sleep disruptions to create a healing plan. If your problem is body aches, chiropractic care can help you. Chiropractors can improve your relationship with sleep by easing body tension. They can adjust your spine to improve blood flow and massage sore muscles. If your issue is technology distractions, disconnect from devices at least an hour before bed. You won’t spend hours scrolling on social media and miss precious sleep. Set a Consistent Alarm Establish a sleep routine with a consistent alarm. Practice waking up at the same time each day to gain stability. Normalizing your sleep patterns helps with productivity and nightly rest. Generally, you’ll fall asleep at a certain time to ensure enough rest for the next day. Pick an alarm time and stick with it, even on the weekends. Minimize Noise Noise can interfere with your sleep rhythm and make you stay alert. Although some people can ignore sounds, others can’t block out extra noise. A sleep-friendly bedroom has minimal noise. You can create a quiet environment by silencing devices. Reduce your TV volume, turn off smartphones, or silence game consoles. Limit Naps During the Day Another tip to achieve better sleep is to limit naps during the day. Napping too long or too late can affect your nighttime rest. Basically, it throws off your sleep schedule and makes it difficult to rest when you want to. The ideal nap length is 20 minutes, and you should rest in the early afternoon. You can indulge in daytime sleep to refresh your body without disrupting bedtime. Be Mindful of Caffeine Consumption Caffeinated drinks like coffee and soda are popular because they give people energy. In some cases, people turn to caffeine to overcome daytime sleepiness. But that does more harm than good. Afternoon caffeine may lead to long-term sleep deprivation. Be mindful of your caffeine intake and avoid those beverages later in the day.

2023-07-19T09:57:23-07:00By |

Common Places Allergens Are Hiding in Your Home

Allergens are substances that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Common allergens include dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and pollen. All these can be present in the home, often hidden away in places we don't think to look. Identifying and mitigating common allergens is important, as they can trigger asthma attacks or other health issues for those with allergies or sensitivities to them. We'll tell you the common places allergens are hiding in your home so that you can maintain a healthy environment for yourself and your family. Carpets Carpets are the perfect hiding places for allergens, as tiny particles can easily become trapped in the fabric's fibers. Dust mites, pet dander, and pollen are some of the most common allergens in carpets. These tiny particles build up over time and can cause serious allergic reactions in sensitive individuals when inhaled or touched. Regular vacuuming is the best way to reduce allergen levels in your carpet. This process will help remove dust and debris deep within the carpet fibers. You should also consider having your carpets professionally steam cleaned at least once a year to ensure that you eliminate all built-up allergens. Curtains Curtains can also be a source of allergens in the home. You can commonly find dust mites and dander in curtains and draperies, especially if left uncleaned for extended periods. Dusty curtains can negatively impact your home's air quality, so cleaning them is necessary. To reduce the levels of allergens present in curtains, you should launder them frequently according to their care instructions. It can also be helpful to dust your blinds and windowsills. This will help remove dust buildup effectively. Pillows Pillows are another popular place for allergens to hide inside your home. Dust mites can find their way deep into your pillows and can cause your allergies to flare up when you're trying to sleep. Therefore, taking the necessary steps to protect your pillows is essential. It's best to machine wash your pillows every three to six months, depending on how often you use them. If you have feather- or down-filled pillows, you should dry clean them at least once a year. It's also beneficial to look for anti-allergenic pillow covers designed specifically to keep out any potential allergens while still providing comfort during sleep. Ductwork Common household allergens can also easily become trapped within your ductwork and circulate around your home. Dust mites, pet dander, and pollen are some of the common contaminants found in air ducts that can harm air quality. If you have sensitive allergies, this is one of the main areas you want to focus on, as it can have the largest effect. The first step you'll want to take to decrease allergens in your ductwork is to replace your air filters. You should replace these filters at least every three months. Hiring a professional service to clean your air ducts is also a good idea. Now that you know the places where [...]

2023-05-12T11:30:37-07:00By |

3 Questions To Ask a Pain Management Specialist

Pain management is a very personal experience. For some, pain is the result of a sudden injury. Meanwhile, some people experience pain due to repetitive actions that cause damage over an extended period of time. A pain management specialist will help you find the root of the problem and suggest a treatment. Many experts are available. Thus, there are qualifying factors to consider before committing to a specific specialist. Today, we’ll introduce you to three critical questions to ask a pain management specialist during your first discussion. What Treatment Do You Specialize In? Pain management experts specialize in many techniques. Sometimes, pain management means exploring new lifestyle changes. Symptoms may also require hands-on procedures. Ask the expert what forms of treatment and areas they specialize in and how their expertise may help with your symptoms. For example, you can find clinics that focus on weight loss management to help handle pain and more health problems. However, other clinics may offer weight loss management alongside physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, red light therapy, and more ways to deal with pain. Having an extensive toolkit ensures your pain management specialist can accurately explore a wide range of treatments for your issue. Do You Provide Alternatives to Medication and Surgeries? When you explore the different treatments available from a pain specialist, you can decide which options you are comfortable with. You can even take details such as medication and surgery into account. Anyone who wants to avoid pain medication and invasive surgeries should ask a pain specialist about what alternatives they offer. As mentioned above, some specialists provide treatments involving physical therapy and red light therapy to reduce pain. These procedures are ideal for patients who don’t want invasive treatments or drugs. That said, always ask about the use of medication and surgery beforehand so that you know what to expect from the specialist. For example, several common causes of chronic elbow pain in adults exist, and your personal preferences play a key role in how your pain specialist will find a plan to assist. This principle applies to any pain that you feel upon arrival at a wellness clinic. Will Frequent Visits to Your Clinic Be Necessary? Traveling to and from the pain specialist’s office frequently may be an issue, depending on your symptoms. If the travel is challenging for you, ask how frequently you will have to visit. This is an essential question to ask a pain management specialist because alternative options may be available for your treatment. For example, telemedicine provides patients and professionals with a way to communicate remotely. That way, the patient can remain at home while the professional provides pain management advice. Ask any pain specialist the questions above so that you can find the path to better health whenever you’re ready.

2023-05-02T07:56:46-07:00By |

Top 3 Ways You Can Use Honey for Health and Wellness

Did you know that civilizations have used honey for thousands of years for health and wellness reasons? That’s because honey has a multitude of uses and benefits. Many people use honey solely as a sweetening agent. However, it has so much to offer us. Find out some of the most popular ways you can use honey for health and wellness. Hydrating Dry Skin When you look at honey, the first thing you notice is how thick and viscous the texture is. That makes honey a wonderful hydrating ointment for dry skin, which is why many people enjoy using it during their skin-care routine. Honey is also gentle on the skin, so it’s perfect for those with sensitivities. If you want to use honey in your skin-care routine, apply it to your skin as a mask and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. Topical Treatment You might not have known that you can use honey as a topical treatment to heal wounds. But there’s a caveat here: you can’t use any old honey off the shelf. You will have to use manuka honey, otherwise known as medical-grade honey, which is one of the rarest types of honey in the world. In fact, many hospitals even use manuka honey. Manuka honey is so unique and rare because of its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which makes it a phenomenal healing agent. Fights Bad Breath Yes, one of the top ways you can use honey for health and wellness is by ensuring you have fresh breath all day long. The reason honey is so good at fighting bad breath is due to its anti-microbial properties that fight the bacteria that contribute to bad breath. Next time you’re feeling a case of halitosis approaching, you can have a soothing glass of tea with honey to fight it off.

2023-03-23T05:20:57-07:00By |

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