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Only seven percent of adults have good cardiometabolic health

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cardiometabolic health

Less than 7 percent of the U.S. adult population has good cardiometabolic health, a devastating health crisis requiring urgent action, according to research led by a team from the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University in a pioneering perspective on cardiometabolic health trends and disparities published in the July 12 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Their team also included researchers from Tufts Medical Center.

Researchers evaluated Americans across five components of health: levels of blood pressure, blood sugar, blood cholesterol, adiposity (overweight and obesity), and presence or absence of cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke, etc.). They found that only 6.8 percent of U.S. adults had optimal levels of all five components as of 2017-2018. Among these five components, trends between 1999 and 2018 also worsened significantly for adiposity and blood glucose. In 1999, 1 out of 3 adults had optimal levels for adiposity (no overweight or obesity); that number decreased to 1 out of 4 by 2018. Likewise, while 3 out of 5 adults didn’t have diabetes or prediabetes in 1999, fewer than 4 out of 10 adults were free of these conditions in 2018.

“These numbers are striking. It’s deeply problematic that in the United States, one of the wealthiest nations in the world, fewer than 1 in 15 adults have optimal cardiometabolic health,” said Meghan O’Hearn, a doctoral candidate at the Friedman School and the study’s lead author. “We need a complete overhaul of our healthcare system, food system, and built environment, because this is a crisis for everyone, not just one segment of the population.”

The study looked at a nationally representative sample of about 55,000 people aged 20 years or older from 1999 to 2018 from the 10 most recent cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The research team focused on optimal, intermediate, and poor levels of cardiometabolic health and its components, rather than just presence or absence of disease. “We need to shift the conversation, because disease is not the only problem,” O’Hearn said. “We don’t just want to be free of disease. We want to achieve optimal health and well-being.”

The researchers also identified large health disparities between people of different sexes, ages, races and ethnicities, and education levels. For example, adults with less education were half as likely to have optimal cardiometabolic health compared with adults with more education, and Mexican Americans had one-third the optimal levels versus non-Hispanic White adults. Additionally, between 1999 and 2018, while the percentage of adults with good cardiometabolic health modestly increased among non-Hispanic White Americans, it went down for Mexican American, other Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and adults of other races.

“This is really problematic. Social determinants of health such as food and nutrition security, social and community context, economic stability, and structural racism put individuals of different education levels, races, and ethnicities at an increased risk of health issues,” said Dariush Mozaffarian, dean of the Friedman School and senior author. “This highlights the other important work going on across the Friedman School and Tufts University to better understand and address the underlying causes of poor nutrition and health disparities in the U.S. and around the world.”

The study also assessed “intermediate” levels of health—not optimal but not yet poor—including conditions like pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension, and overweight. “A large portion of the population is at a critical inflection point,” O’Hearn said. “Identifying these individuals and addressing their health conditions and lifestyle early is critical to reducing growing healthcare burdens and health inequities.”

The consequences of the dire state of health among U.S. adults reach beyond personal health. “Its impacts on national healthcare spending and the financial health of the entire economy are enormous,” O’Hearn said. “And these conditions are largely preventable. We have the public health and clinical interventions and policies to be able to address these problems.”

Researchers at the Friedman School work actively on many such solutions, O’Hearn said, including Food is Medicine interventions (using good nutrition to help prevent and treat illness); incentives and subsidies to make healthy food more affordable; consumer education on a healthy diet; and private sector engagement to drive a healthier and more equitable food system. “There are a lot of different avenues through which this can be done,” O’Hearn said. “We need a multi-sectoral approach, and we need the political will and desire to do it.”

“This is a health crisis we’ve been facing for a while,” O’Hearn said. “Now there’s a growing economic, social and ethical imperative to give this problem significantly more attention than it has been getting.”

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The Top 5 Effects of Delta 8 THC on the Body

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Delta 8 THC on the Body

Delta 8 is a type of cannabinoid that is often used to treat pain and anxiety. This cannabinoid binds to CB1 receptors throughout the body, similar to CBD and delta-9 THC. However, it has a different position for its double bond, which makes it less psychoactive than the other two.

Reduces Anxiety

Aside from the apparent relaxation and pain relief, delta-8 THC has also reduced anxiety. This is because it binds to the CB1 receptors, which mediate stress and fear responses. Research shows that the endocannabinoid system regulates many functions, including mood, pain, learning and memory, digestion, and appetite. When a person experiences high anxiety or stress levels, the ECS can be overwhelmed and become dysfunctional. To study the effects of Delta 8 THC, researchers administered various tasks to participants while they smoked or vaped products containing the cannabinoid. They asked subjects to report how much they experienced the effects: the altered sense of time; anxiety; difficulty concentrating; short-term memory issues; euphoria; pain relief; and paranoia. While the research is still in its early stages, delta 8 THC can provide a more natural, less anxious psychoactive experience than Delta 9 THC. This may be beneficial for consumers looking to avoid psychoactive effects but want the potential benefits of cannabis. Its effects are known to be mellow and relaxing and can leave users feeling contented and chill.

Boosts Energy

If you’re in a pinch and need an energy boost, Delta 8 THC can be a good option. It can provide the same effects as caffeine without the harmful side effects or jitters that can come with using caffeine. You can find delta-8 THC products in many forms, including tinctures, vape pens, and gummies. They can also be sold at licensed cannabis retailers and health food stores. Unlike the more potent Delta 9 THC, which has a much more intense, buzz-inducing high, delta-8 THC is a milder and more subtle experience. It’s also less likely to cause paranoia, which can lead to anxiety and panicked thoughts. As a result, it can provide an excellent outlet for creative inspiration and help you stay focused on tasks. However, it would be best to be mindful of your chosen strain, as indica-heavy strains can make you sleepy and unmotivated. Try a tincture or vape pen with an intense Sativa strain for the best effects. Or opt for a Delta-8-THC gummy to get the same effect but in a more pleasant, digestible form.

Relieves Pain

Delta 8 THC is a cannabis cannabinoid that binds to the CB1 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating the body’s pain signals, as well as a variety of other functions.

This can be incredibly beneficial for patients with pain conditions, such as arthritis and chronic back pain. In addition, it can also improve mood and reduce stress. Another benefit of delta 8 for pain relief is that it can provide an outlet for creativity. It can also increase the levels of dopamine and serotonin, which are natural chemicals in the brain that affect our moods and senses. This can significantly benefit people who struggle with depression and anxiety. It can also help those who suffer from PTSD or trauma. The effects of delta 8 can be a powerful tool for treating these disorders and can even help with other mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Delta 8 THC is an increasingly popular form of cannabis available in various products, including oils, vaping pens, tinctures, edibles, and joints. Its benefits include reducing nausea, stimulating appetite, and increasing energy. While Delta-8 THC is similar to its cousin, Delta-9 THC, it produces a much milder high that doesn’t get you feeling like you’re intoxicated. It also doesn’t cause the same adverse reactions you can experience with higher doses of Delta-9 THC, such as lethargy and disorientation.

Boosts Appetite

Delta 8 THC can boost your appetite, which can help you eat more food and feel full faster. But, just like with any cannabinoid, the effects can vary from person to person, so it’s best to take a little at a time and wait until you feel the full effects before consuming more. In addition, delta 8 THC can help you find creative inspiration for your projects. Whether creating a recipe, painting a picture, or writing a story, delta 8 THC can give you the extra kick needed to produce your best work. This is why so many people are turning to delta-8 THC. It’s a less potent cannabinoid that offers similar effects to delta 9 THC but with fewer side effects. In addition, delta-8 THC is a hemp-derived cannabinoid, which means it’s legal in nearly every state that allows cannabis products. This makes it an ideal option for anyone who wants to use cannabis but may be worried about the adverse side effects of delta-9 THC. It’s also an excellent choice for those seeking a non-intoxicating alternative to traditional weed.

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Why Men Need Professional Counseling – A Deep Dive Into the Benefits

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Professional Counseling

Many men hesitate to seek professional help for their mental health because of social factors and stigma. Therapists are working to make therapy less intimidating for men.

Traditionally, society has put a lot of pressure on men to be tough and unemotional. This makes counseling unappealing because they think it will be seen as emasculating.

Increased Self-Awareness

Knowing yourself more fully can be the key to building positive habits impacting your long-term life. It is also vital to improving your emotional health and resilience.

Self-awareness is the ability to perceive and evaluate one’s internal thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This includes recognizing patterns and cognitive distortions holding you back in some regions of your life.

The more you develop your self-awareness, the better you will become at identifying and addressing these problems before they hinder your success.

This can be especially true in a relationship, where communication is at the core of any successful partnership. Without it, any relationship will fall apart quickly.

Better Relationships

The best place to start is with a qualified therapist if you need professional help with your relationships. The benefits of professional counseling are numerous and can improve not only your mental health but also your physical well-being.

The best thing about professional counseling like Elevated Counseling Denver men’s therapy is that it can be done in a confidential and safe environment. While some men may be hesitant to open up about their feelings, they often find that visiting a therapist can help them move past difficult or uncomfortable situations and into better and healthier relationships.

There is no substitute for professional counseling for a man looking for the best possible relationship help. The benefits of this type of treatment include improved self-esteem, increased motivation, decreased stress and anxiety, and increased self-confidence.

Reduced Stress

Stress is a normal part of life, but if it lasts long, it can have serious health effects. Chronic stress promotes inflammation in the body, leading to heart disease, cancer and other illnesses.

Fortunately, many types of stress can be relieved quickly and easily. Simple mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, tai chi and martial arts can help your body return to calm.

You can also reduce stress by making more time for yourself and nurturing yourself with healthy foods, exercise and sleep. In addition to helping you feel better, these activities can lower your blood pressure and increase energy levels.

Better Sleep

Getting adequate sleep is crucial for health, energy and optimal performance. It can help you avoid chronic illnesses like obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Research shows that men who get good quality sleep have a significantly higher life expectancy than those who don’t. A study published in The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that men with all five favorable elements of low-risk sleep had a 4.7-year higher life expectancy than those who reported none or only one of the positive factors.

Studies have also shown that students who get consistent sleep earn higher grades than those who struggle to fall asleep or stay awake. Tim Bono, a lecturer in psychological and brain sciences at Washington University, found that college students with stable sleep patterns earned a GPA of 3.66 on average. In contrast, those with fluctuating sleep schedules earned a lower GPA.

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How Many Apples in a Pound: A Comprehensive Guide

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How Many Apples in a Pound

Whether you’re shopping for apples for a specific recipe or attempting to estimate how many you’ll need, knowing their weight might be helpful. Apples can be baked into pastries, cooked down into sauces, added to salads, or eaten raw as a snack. Learn how many apples you can count on finding in a pound as we investigate the weight of apples in this article. Let’s just jump right in!

 

1. Understanding Apple Varieties

Different types of apples have different textures, colours, tastes, and sizes. Apples of different varieties, such as Granny Smiths, Galas, Red Deliciouses, and Honeycrisps, can range in size and weight.

2. Average Weight of Apples

Apples often range in weight from 0.25 to 0.5 pounds. This is, of course, only a ballpark figure, and the actual weight may differ based on the specific apple variety and size.

3. Calculating Apples per Pound

Think about how heavy your apples are on average to figure out how many you have in a pound. Let’s say a typical apple weighs.35 ounces. If you know the average weight of an apple and know how many ounces are in a pound, you can figure out how many apples there are in a pound.

45.71 apples are equal to 16 ounces (or 0.35 pounds)

Therefore, there are around 45-46 apples in a pound.

4. Weight Conversion Tips

One pound is equal to about 453.59 grammes, which is useful information to have if you normally work with grammes. When a recipe or measurement is given in grammes rather than pounds, this conversion might be helpful.

5. Factors Affecting Apple Weight

The typical weight of an apple might give you a rough estimate, but it’s important to remember that there are many variables that can change the actual weight of any one apple.

6. Common Apple Weight Measurements

When shopping for apples, you may notice that different farmers and vendors use different weight metrics. Some typical units of measurement are listed below.

A bushel of apples, which is a common unit of measurement in industrial or mass-produced apple products, weighs around 42 pounds (19.05 kilogrammes).
Commonly used for lesser quantities or for one’s own use, a peck of apples weighs around 10.5 pounds (4.76 kilogrammes).
Bag or Pound: Apples are commonly sold by the pound or in pre-packaged bags, making it easy for buyers to acquire the necessary amount.

7. Estimating Apple Quantities

Here are some ballpark figures based on the average weight of one apple (0.35 pounds) that might help you estimate the quantity of apples needed for a meal or event if you don’t have a scale on hand:

3 apples equal 1 pound of apples.
About 6 apples, or 2 pounds
About 15 apples would make up 5 pounds of apples.
Remember that these are only rough estimates based on the average weight of apples, and that actual weights may differ depending on the type.

8. Tips for Buying Apples

The best apples may be selected with the help of the following guidelines.

Choose apples that are heavy for their size, have deep, rich colours, and are devoid of bruises.
Take into account why you need apples.
Try to take in the apple scent. A good scent is a good indicator of freshness.

9. Storing Apples Properly

Here are some storing strategies that could help your apples last longer:

Keep apples out of the sun and in a cool, dry location.
Maintain their crispness and freshness by storing them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
Apples give out ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening of nearby fruits, so keep them separated.

10. Cooking with Apples

Apples’ adaptability means they may be utilised in a wide range of recipes. Some common ways to use apples in the kitchen are listed below.

Timeless apple dessert
Crusty, crumbly apple dessert
Salad Waldorf with Applesauce
Sweetened apples
Apple juice
Try out these dishes using a few different apple kinds and broaden your horizons in the world of food.

11. Nutritional Value of Apples

Apples not only taste great, but they also have many positive health effects. They are an excellent source of fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants, and they won’t put a dent in your calorie count. Apples are beneficial because they aid in digestion, strengthen the immune system, and enhance general health.

 

Conclusion

When cooking or shopping for apples, it’s helpful to know how many apples there are in a pound. While the typical apple’s weight might shift depending on a number of circumstances, you can get very close with some rough calculations and knowledge of the topic at hand. If you’ve been paying attention, you now know how many apples you’ll need the next time you go apple shopping. Take use of apples’ many uses and flavour profiles in your kitchen.

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