Essential fatty acids’ benefits, foods, and deficiencies are elucidated in this article. All body functions rely on fatty acids for proper operation, and essential fatty acids can only be obtained through diet. Today's culture places a high value on a healthy diet and a slimmer waistline. Remember, just because you lose weight doesn't mean you're eating better. Many people think that cutting out fat from one's diet is the only way to slim down. Due to the fact that specific types of lipids are essential to a healthy body, this might be dangerous. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are the name given to these important fats, and as your body can't generate them on its own, they must come from your food. Linoleic Acid (LA), aka omega-6 and Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), aka omega-3, are the two major EFAs for human beings. It aids in monitoring blood clotting: Omega-6 fatty acids increase the production of blood clots, whereas Omega-3 oil decreases blood clot formation. A healthy ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids is preferred. It helps to keep the thyroid and adrenal glands working properly.
Sources of Essential fatty acids
Essential fatty acids are abundant in some diets. Flaxseed oil, soybean oil, walnut oil, tofu, walnuts, canola oil, mustard oil, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are all plant sources of omega-3s also known as ALAs.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are omega-3 fatty acids found in animals. Fish oil, sardines, swordfish, salmon, anchovies, herring, sea bass, mackerel, and tuna are all good sources of DHA. EPA sources include sablefish, trout, shad, salmon, herring, menhaden, wolffish, and halibut.
Sunflower oil, soybean oil, Brazil nuts, walnuts, chia seeds, maize oil, almonds, canola oil, safflower oil, and hazelnuts are all good sources of omega-6s, also known as LAs. Omega-3 essential fatty acid supplements are widely used, such as cod liver oil, krill oil, and fish oil. Algal oil, a plant-based omega-3 supplement derived from algae, is a good option for people who don't consume fish. Essential fatty acids’ benefits entail the development of strong cell membranes. It is necessary for cholesterol transfer and breakdown.
Benefits of Essential fatty acids
Experts recommend that Omega-6 FAs make up between 3% and 5% of total calories, whereas Omega-3 FAs make up between.5% and 1% of total calories. This equates to around 12 g of Omega-6 plus 3 g of Omega-3 in a 2000-calorie diet. Essential fatty acids’ benefits comprise the control of liver function, blood pressure, and immunological and inflammatory responses, among other aspects. Maintaining healthy skin and fostering appropriate eye and cognitive development in infants and children are other critical functions of fat. Seafood's nutritional content is especially important during pregnancy, early childhood, and early adolescence. According to research, people who ingest omega-3s daily are less prone to depression. Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may benefit from omega-3 fatty acid supplementation. The supplement helps children focus and calm their agitated, impulsive, and aggressive tendencies. For persons with metabolic syndrome, omega-3 fatty acids can offer a wide range of advantages. Insulin resistance can be reduced, inflammation can be diminished, and numerous cardiovascular risk factors can be improved with their use.
Deficiency of Essential fatty acids
Essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) is uncommon, particularly among those who eat a diverse diet. EFAD can be caused by a variety of diseases that alter absorption or metabolism. A dry, scaly rash, slowed growth, poor wound healing, and hair loss are all symptoms of EFAD. Essential fatty acids’ benefits include how well the nervous system and brain grow and work. It is vital for maintaining healthy skin and hair, as well as hormone production. A doctor will undertake a medical examination to see if an individual has EFAD and check for dried, scaly skin symptoms. They may also inquire about wound repair, development, and infection vulnerability. Physicians may do medical tests to assess liver and kidney efficiency as well as monitor essential fatty acid levels. If someone is diagnosed with EFAD, their doctor may advise them to consume a diet high in vegetable oils, nut butter, and oily seafood. They could also recommend an injectable liquid emulsion made up of soybean oil and some other fatty acid substances. Because a vegetarian diet is inherently low in fat, EFA-rich foods should be mindfully consumed as a part of your healthy lifestyle.


“Chronic Inflammation” has been a buzz term for the past several years. This type of inflammation is often the villain behind obesity, type II diabetes, heart disease and even Alzheimer’s. However, inflammation isn’t all bad. It’s quite a paradox, actually.
A certain amount of inflammation is needed to fight an injury or infection within the body, but at the same time, the body often doesn’t know when to pull the troops back. The result? A chronically inflamed state.
Living in a state of chronic inflammation negatively affects our gut health, which is vital to keeping us well and balanced. In fact, according to Ayurvedic medicine (Indian philosophy of medicine) the measure of one’s health can be based solely on their digestive health. And, as a practitioner of integrative functional nutrition- I have to agree!
No matter how “healthy” one’s diet or lifestyle may be- we all suffer from inflammation on some level. It can come from stress, lifestyle, smoking, too much exercise, our environment and, of course, diet. We can’t always control the external contributors to inflammation but we can control what we eat and try our best to manage stress. Below are some recommendations on how to reduce inflammation in your body.
Stress management! I can’t stress this enough (pun intended). Stress is inevitable, but how we react to stress is the deciding factor in whether or not we send our bodies into a tailspin. Find ways to de-stress and use what works for you. I have mentioned meditation and breathing can help counteract inflammation. Check out this former blog post, highlighting ways to create a meaningful morning practice which can help set your day up for success.
Your diet is also a biggie (obviously). The foods we eat can contribute to inflammation.
Keep your diet rich in the following:
Whole Foods (avoid the processed junk)
Fruits and Vegetables (must be the largest part of your intake)
Phytonutrients (have I mention fruits and vegetables before?)
Fiber (SO great for your gut health)
Gut health is extremely important. We need to be kind to the inner microflora. Our gut is responsible for regulating our immune system and can be the largest cause of inflammation in the body. When we neglect our inner microbiota (i.e. not feeding enough plant fiber) our weight, digestive habits and our immune system can go haywire.
To grow a healthy inner garden, use the food listed above and don’t forget to implement your stress management techniques. Additionally, any of the recipes you will find here on Silver Spoons Nutrition will help your inner microflora. Treat your gut well and it will reciprocate!
Stay tuned to the SSN blog for more info on gut health and how to avoid or cope with “leaky gut” syndrome.
We want to hear from you! What do you do to fight inflammation? We could all use a little bit of help and we learn best from each other. Share with #SilverSpoonsNutrition on Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter!


On Monday, October 9th, on Indigenous Planting Day (formerly Columbus Day), The Long Island Conservancy planted a native wildflower garden at The Meadow Croft Estate in Sayville – Bayport. On Indigenous Planting Day, students and parents will have a day out together in nature, to plant in the fall for the following spring. It is a day to volunteer, to give the plants a head start, to put our gardens to bed.
The Long Island Conservancy brought a team of seven and $2500 in native plants for “The Roosevelt Wildflower Garden.”
The plants chosen for our native wildflower garden were predominately ecotypes — not only native, but native to Long Island in particular.
Much thanks goes to Long Island Natives, Long Island’s premiere wholesale grower of native plants, for supporting this native wildflower garden project. It is fair to say that supplying the landscaping industry with native plants in volume and with quality, they have done more to ‘rewild’ Long Island than any other company.
We were joined by several volunteers from SUNY Farmingdale. With them, we were able to finish the planting in three hours. Securing the garden from the deer took a bit longer. No sooner than we had finished planting than a family of deer came peeking around in broad daylight, no doubt drawn by the smell of the native plants.
Up went the fence, and so far there have been no breaches.
Previously, The Long Island Conservancy planted a column of eleven Red Maples along the western entrance to the estate, the goal being to take up water and to shade out invasive phragmites as they grow.
Our stewardship of The Meadow Croft Estate is ongoing. We are committed to establishing an American Chestnut orchard as we work to return this all but extinct, but magnificent tree, as part of a breeding program instituted by SUNY School of Environmental Science and Forestry. See We Will Restore The American Chestnut.
We are dedicated to teaching visitors to The Meadow Croft Estate about our native plants and why they are important for local wildlife. We will be adding QR codes for each native wildflower so we can start to relearn what was common knowledge just a hundred years ago — the names of everything. Once we start to know what we are looking at again, we have a chance at saving it.
On the other hand, once we get over our “plant blindness,” and recognize how our parks and public spaces are being overrun by invasive plants — and The Meadow Croft Estate has it’s share — we can begin to remove them at scale. Read about our Dirty Dozen Campaign against invasive plants here.
For a brilliant write up of the effort to restore this tree, and the potential implications of that, especially for indigenous peoples, I highly recommend this post from Grist: The American Chestnut is Coming Back: Who is it for?
Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention what an absolute jewel The John Roosevelt is being carved into, thanks to the passionate restoration work at The Meadow Croft Estate, led by Mary Bailey of The Bayport-Bluepoint Heritage Association. She has long been an advocate of restoring the grounds as well as the interiors of the estate.
Tours of The Meadow Croft Estate continue on Weekends 2-4 through October. Their Christmas showing in early December is not to be missed. Then there’s Loughlin’s Vineyard, 16 acres carved out of the estate for the former caretaker, and is open on weekends as well.


Echocardiography, a non-invasive imaging technique, has revolutionized the field of cardiology by providing detailed insights into the structure and function of the heart. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the fundamentals of echocardiography, its various types, applications, and its invaluable role in cardiovascular diagnosis and management.
Echocardiography, often called an "echo," employs sound waves to create detailed images of the heart's chambers, valves, and surrounding structures. It is a pivotal diagnostic tool that allows healthcare providers to assess cardiac function, identify abnormalities, and guide treatment decisions.
Types of Echocardiography: Tailoring Imaging to Clinical Needs
- Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE): The most common type, TTE involves placing the transducer on the chest to obtain images through the chest wall. It provides a comprehensive view of the heart's structure and function.
- Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE): A specialized probe is passed through the esophagus in TEE, providing a closer and more precise view of the heart. This method is often employed for more detailed assessments and during specific procedures.
- Doppler Echocardiography: Doppler technology measures the direction and speed of blood flow within the heart and blood vessels. It is beneficial in evaluating conditions such as valvular regurgitation or stenosis.
- Stress Echocardiography: This involves conducting an echocardiogram before and after inducing stress on the heart, either through exercise or medications. It helps assess the heart's response to increased demand.
Applications of Echocardiography
- Structural Assessment: Echocardiography provides detailed images of the heart's chambers, valves, and supporting structures, aiding in detecting abnormalities such as valve disorders, congenital heart defects, and structural anomalies.
- Functional Evaluation: By assessing the heart's pumping function, echocardiography helps diagnose conditions like heart failure cardiomyopathies and identifies areas of impaired contractility.
- Valvular Insights: Echocardiography is instrumental in evaluating the structure and function of heart valves, detecting conditions such as regurgitation or stenosis, and guiding decisions about the need for intervention or surgery.
- Detection of Blood Clots: Especially in the case of conditions like atrial fibrillation, where blood clots can form in the heart, echocardiography aids in identifying and assessing the risk of clot formation.
- Guidance during Procedures: TEE is often utilized during specific cardiac procedures, such as transcatheter valve replacements or atrial septal defect closures, providing real-time guidance for optimal placement.
The Echocardiography Procedure
Echocardiography is generally a painless and non-invasive procedure. During a standard TTE, the patient lies on their left side, and a small amount of gel is applied to the chest. The transducer is then moved across the chest to capture images, and the entire procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes. TEE involves a specialized probe, and while it may be slightly more uncomfortable, it is usually well-tolerated.
Interpreting Echocardiographic Findings
Interpreting echocardiographic images requires specialized skills and expertise. Cardiologists analyze the size and thickness of heart chambers, the movement of heart valves, the efficiency of blood ejection, and other subtle details. Echocardiography allows for identifying conditions at their early stages, enabling timely intervention and management.
Advancements in Echocardiography Technology
- 3D Echocardiography: Traditional echocardiography provides two-dimensional images, while 3D echocardiography adds depth. This technology enhances visualization, particularly for complex cardiac structures, and aids surgical planning.
- Strain Imaging: This advanced technique measures the deformation or strain of heart muscle during contraction and relaxation. It provides quantitative data about myocardial function, offering insights into myocardial infarction or cardiomyopathies.
Echocardiography in Special Populations
Echocardiography is not confined to adults but is crucial in pediatrics. Pediatric cardiologists use echocardiography to assess congenital heart defects, evaluate cardiac function in children with various diseases, and monitor the effectiveness of treatments. The non-invasive nature of echocardiography is particularly advantageous in the delicate realm of pediatric care.
Challenges and Considerations: Navigating Diagnostic Limitations
While echocardiography is a powerful diagnostic tool, it does have limitations. Obesity, chronic lung disease, and certain chest deformities can affect image quality. Additionally, echocardiography may not provide detailed views of specific structures, necessitating complementary imaging modalities when required.
Echocardiography stands as a cornerstone in cardiovascular diagnostics, offering a window into the intricate workings of the heart. Its versatility, non-invasive nature, and ability to provide real-time insights make it an invaluable tool for healthcare providers. From detecting structural anomalies to guiding intricate cardiac procedures, echocardiography empowers cardiovascular care, providing more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment strategies. As technology advances, the future promises even more refined and detailed cardiac imaging, further elevating the standard of cardiovascular medicine.


Enhanced Oral Assessment System
The VELscope Vx, the latest model release of VELscope technology, uses natural tissue fluorescence to improve the way practitioners examine the oral mucosa and screen for tissue abnormalities by enhancing the visualization of pre-cancers, cancer and other disease processes.
The World's #1 Adjunctive Examination Device
Traditional oral mucosal examination tools rely on reflected light to visualize the oral cavity. VELscope Vx uses tissue fluorescence rather than reflectance. Natural tissue fluorescence is caused by "fluorophores" that, when excited by light of an appropriate wavelength (e.g. blue), will emit their own light at a longer wavelength (e.g. green). The resulting fluorescence may reveal information about cellular, structural, and/or metabolic activity changes that are often directly related to disease processes occurring inside the tissue. The VELscope Vx system is a powerful device for the enhanced visualization of mucosal abnormalities such as oral cancer and premalignant dysplasia. Unlike other adjunctive devices used by dentists, the VELscope Vx system does not require any dyes or prolonged testing procedures. In fact, VELscope Vx examinations can be performed in the dentist's office during routine hygiene exams (and under normal lighting conditions) in about two minutes.
VELscope® Vx Advantages
- Provides visual information that is bright and easy to observe within the typical lighting conditions in a dental operatory
- Helps see things which may be hard to visualize otherwise i.e. offers an imaging modality which is sensitive to tissue changes
- Allows for enhanced photo documentation - bright tissue response allows easily acquired digital images
- Clinically proven for the enhanced visualization of mucosal abnormalities, and for use by specialists in helping establish lesion margins for surgical excision
- A very important tool in the fight against oral cancer
Indications for use
VELscope Vx is intended to be used by a dentist or health-care provider as an adjunct to traditional oral examination by incandescent light to enhance the visualization of oral mucosal abnormalities that may not be apparent or visible to the unassisted eye. VELscope Vx is further intended to be used by an oral surgeon to help identify diseased tissue around a clinically apparent lesion and thus aid in determining the appropriate margin for surgical excision.


Cape Canaveral is a city in Brevard County, Florida, from which American astronauts explored the space and conquered the moon. But aside from being the center of the nation’s human space program, Cape Canaveral also offers beautiful sandy beaches and world-class fishing.
The rich waters are full of redfish, mahi mahi, tuna, wahoo, kingfish, sharks, and more.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler your guide, the expert team at Fin and Fly fishing charters has all the knowledge and tackle you’ll need to battle down these monstrous fish that lurk in the waters along the Space Coast of Florida from Cape Canaveral to Cocoa Beach.
Contact us today to experience world-class fishing in Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach.Book Your Trip Today
|Our Fishing Charters Include:|
|Experienced, fully licensed professional captains|
|New, comfortable boats|
|Top of the line fishing tackle|
|Cooler with ice|
Kingfish or king mackerel is a medium-sized fish with an entire body covered in tiny, hardly visible scales. It has olive color on the back, fading to silver with a rosy opalescent on the sides, gradually fainting to white on the belly. Kingfish favor squid, menhaden or other sardine-like fish. A Gulf of Mexico migratory group of kingfish ranges from the Texas coast in summer to the middle-east coast of Florida from November through March.
Cobia has a spindle-shaped dark brown body with a broad flattened head. Two darker brown horizontal bands on the flanks make it distinguishable among other species. Reaching in length up to 78 in. and weighing up to 172 lbs., cobia resembles a shark. It mainly feeds on crabs, squid and smaller fish. This very curious fish is not afraid of coming close to boats.
Dazzling body colors, broad golden flank and iridescent blue pectoral fin is what makes this fish look like no other. On average the mahi-mahi can grow up to 29 lbs, and swim as fast as 57.5 mph. This well-known carnivore feeds on flying fish, crabs, squid and other fish. The mahi-mahi is mostly found in the surface water and is in great demand for sport fishing.
Sailfish are mainly gray and blue in color. But the colorful dorsal fin also known as a sail is what this fish is mostly known for. One of the fastest water creatures, sailfish can swim at a speed of 47 mph. Forage fish and squid are sailfish’s favorite food.
The Red Drum, also known as the Redfish or Channel Bass, has a reddish overall coloration and one or more dark spots at the base of the tail. It feeds at the bottom on crustaceans and mollusks. It also takes small fish, especially mullet.
Snappers are active carnivores, feeding mainly on crustaceans such as shrimp, crayfish, and crabs. Some, however, are plankton-eaters. Snappers are of light red color, with more intense pigment on the back. These fish can reach up to 39 in. in length and weigh 60 to 80 lbs. The oldest reported snapper is over 100 years old.
The tarpon is a large thick-bodied fish generally silver in color other than its back, which can range from a dark green to grey. It has a large scoop shaped mouth and the last ray of its dorsal fin is greatly elongated. Its scales are large and thick like a coat of armor. The inside of their mouth is like a heavy grit of sandpaper that will wear threw your leader or tippet.
The wahoo’s elongated body is covered with small scales. Its sides are silvery, with a pattern of irregular vertical blue lines, while the back is a gradual blue. Its mouth is large with razor sharp teeth. The wahoo can weigh up to 183 lbs., and reach a length of up to 8 ft 2 in. A very good fighter on light to medium tackle, a wahoo is a highly valuable sport fishing catch.
We are 5 star rated on Tripadvisor, Google and Facebook, and provide full service guided charters and professional quality boats and equipment.
Book your Fishing Charter today to make your fishing dreams a reality!
Captain Nate took us out for a 1/2 day trip. He was great! We caught some huge rays, and a goliath grouper. Very fun!!


For those unfamiliar, probiotics are beneficial, transient bacteria that interact with our cells and existing bacteria through our colon to, directly and indirectly, deliver benefits; prebiotics is compounds bio-transformed by bacteria into metabolites. They’re probiotics’ food source, so they can function optimally. When we consume prebiotics and probiotics together, the combination is called a synbiotic.
Kiko Vitals Prebiotic + Probiotic includes strains of bacteria that have been clinically proven to not only ease digestion and increase folate production but also to contribute to cardiovascular health and improve skin health. One of these strains is Lactobacillus, which is pivotal in the overall functioning of the microbial species. It produces many substances that influence the environment by producing lactic acid, which other microbes can thrive on.
WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE KIKO VITAL’S SYNBIOTIC.
Fun fact: you are only half human; 50% of you are microbial! This diverse microbiome (of 38 trillion microorganisms) performs an array of critical functions like digesting food, managing inflammation, and synthesizing key vitamins, metabolites and neurotransmitters.
Other important roles of this product include:
- It helps maintain a balanced ecosystem with a functional epithelial gut barrier.
- Supporting the growth of each other (and naturally occurring beneficial microorganisms) by digesting harmful/toxic compounds and creating beneficial compounds (such as amino acids, enzymes, vitamins, etc.)
- Boosts overall immunity as well as outcompeting and killing invasive pathogens (harmful microorganisms)
- Producing beneficial neurotransmitters, proteins, metabolites, etc
- It combats brain-related and neurodegenerative disorders such as depression, Parkinson’s’ Disease, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, etc.
- It alleviates symptoms associated with diabetes, IBS/IBD, organ dysfunction, Cholesterol, high blood pressure, Crohn’s, etc.
- Aids in reducing bloating and constipation, as well as weight loss
- Mood, attention and energy boosting.
- Reduce the risk of cancer through immune stimulation
WHAT DIFFERENTIATES KIKO VITALS FROM OTHER OPTIONS?
- Kiko Vitals has a strong commitment to sustainability. Not only is their packaging stunning, but each component is also designed to protect your Daily Synbiotic and be gentler on our Earth.
- Their products are Vegan, Gluten-Free and GMO-Free.
- Their packaging is 100% recyclable and doesn’t harm our oceans.
- Their product has a 20 Billion spore strength, which is much higher than most similar products on the market.
- Their product is freeze-dried, which means the probiotic is activated once delivered to the colon. In contrast, liquid forms that need to be refrigerated often die between shipping, courier and being left outside of the fridge in stores etc.
- Kiko Vitals Prebiotic + Probiotic has high-grade single caps
- They have multi-strain probiotics, which target all biomes within the system.
There is immense power in the synergy between prebiotics and probiotics. Together they make the ultimate powerhouse pair, and Kiko Vitals has succeeded in bringing these together so we can support the multiple and magical microbiomes within us.
The Kiko Vitals Prebiotic + Probiotic retails for R429-00
Shop the new Prebiotic + Probiotic on the Kiko Vitals Online Store.


|June 2022- Read the Deal Announcement
|Southeast Asia: Singapore
The global human microbiome market will witness a robust CAGR of 31.08%, valued at $115.42 million in 2021, expected to appreciate and reach $1318.72 million by 2030, confirms Strategic Market Research.
Core assets are used to power AMILI’s four commercial engines:
- Diagnostics and Therapeutics: AMILI works closely with academic institutions and biotech companies to identify novel biomarkers, elucidate mechanistic pathways and formulate products to modify the gut microbiome and treating disease.
- Fecal Microbiota Transplants (“FMT”): Collection, analysis and storage of FMT preparations used by patients, hospitals and research institutes across the region.
- Personalised Wellness: The direct-to-consumer arm of AMILI, branded as BIO & ME, which include sales of gut health testing services and personalised supplements.
- Consumer: Partnerships with Consumer Food Companies to assist them in product validation, measurement and developments. Providing them with insights to the impact of various ingredients, recipes and foods on the human microbiome, particularly as it pertains to the Asian consumer.
Impact linked to UN SDGs
Future Growth Prospects


Coad, Brian W. and Reist, James B. (Edited and authored) with contributions by Peter Rask Møller, Claude B. Renaud, Noel R. Alfonso, Karen Dunmall, Michael Power, Chantelle D. Sawatzky, Fikret Berkes, J. Brian Dempson, Les N. Harris, and Heidi K. Swanson. 2018. Marine Fishes of Arctic Canada. Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa and University of Toronto Press, Toronto, Buffalo, London. xiv + 618 + pp., 521 figures, 219 maps, 182 colour figures.
This large format book will tell you everything you want to know about Arctic fishes. Up until now, information on Arctic fishes was relatively difficult to find because the Arctic is remote and scientific studies on fishes were more likely to be done closer to home. Museum of Nature researchers have been changing that and documenting new species in the north. Here is their announcement of the book.
A few years ago while the book was being written, a blog post (link to nature.ca) gave us some background.
Now you can read the book at OPL. Their description and summary of the book:
“Because of its wide geographic scope and harsh conditions, Canada’s Arctic presents many challenges for researchers and biologists. In this book, scientists from the Canadian Museum of Nature and Fisheries and Oceans Canada present a guide to the marine fishes found in Arctic Canadian waters and featuring up-to-date research on 222 species. Each of the 58 families is described in a general account followed by species accounts comprising common name, taxonomy, physical description and identification, habitat data, biology, distribution, commercial importance, and traditional knowledge. Many of the species are known only to scientists and come from the deeper waters of the Davis Strait while others have been important food sources for Indigenous peoples for millennia. A wide-ranging general introduction looks at the history of research, fish habitats, climate, fisheries, fish structure, and the collection and preservation of fishes while an essay on traditional ecological knowledge provides an important perspective. Exquisite black-and-white drawings of each species complement colour photos and illustrations. Finally, new range maps showing distributions across Arctic Canada were created for this volume. The book will be a welcome reference work for Northern residents, biologists and ecologists, environmental groups, and resource extraction companies operating in the North, as well as commercial and amateur fishers in Canada and in other circumpolar countries.”
A review by Betty Galbraith, Washington State University:
“Marine Fishes of Arctic Canada is a beautiful book. It is the first encyclopedia dedicated exclusively to the Arctic fishes of Canada and contains 222 species organized by 58 families. Each family of fishes is introduced with an overarching description of the biology, life cycle, behavior, and specific habitat. This family section is followed by accounts of each species within the family, including common name, taxonomy, physical description, biology, life history, distribution, commercial and cultural importance, and a short bibliography of sources. Each species also has a map of its range and beautiful line drawings. An introduction to the subject covers the history of research, fish habitats, climate, environment, and more. The book also contains a glossary of terms and a bibliography. Coad (emer., Canadian Museum of Nature) and Reist (Fisheries and Oceans Canada) both bring considerable expertise to this subject, having written several articles and bibliographies on Arctic fishes. A must-have book. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers.”


(Image source from: Freepik.com)
According to a recent study published in the American Academy of Neurology's medical journal, Neurology, disrupted sleep in one's 30s and 40s can lead to memory and cognitive difficulties a decade later. The research, conducted by the University of California, San Francisco, focused on the duration and quality of sleep of participants.
During the study, 526 individuals with an average age of 40 were followed for 11 years. Participants wore a wrist activity monitor for three consecutive days on two separate occasions to determine their sleep averages. The findings revealed that the participants had an average of six hours of sleep.
The study also evaluated sleep quality by asking participants to record their bedtimes and wake times in a sleep diary and complete a sleep quality survey. A score of zero to 21 was given on the survey, with higher scores indicating poorer sleep quality. Out of the participants, 46 percent reported poor sleep, indicated by a score greater than five.
In addition to sleep duration and quality, researchers examined sleep fragmentation, which refers to repetitive short interruptions of sleep. This was measured by analyzing the percentage of time spent moving and not moving for one minute or less during sleep. On average, participants had a sleep fragmentation rate of 19 percent.
Based on sleep fragmentation scores, researchers divided the participants into three groups. It was discovered that out of the 175 individuals with the most disrupted sleep, 44 had poor cognitive performance after ten years. In contrast, only 10 out of the 176 individuals with the least disrupted sleep experienced cognitive difficulties. Even after adjusting for age, gender, race, and education, those with the most disrupted sleep had more than twice the odds of displaying poor cognitive performance compared to those with the least disrupted sleep.
These findings emphasize the importance of understanding the relationship between sleep and cognition earlier in life. As signs of diseases like Alzheimer's start appearing in the brain several decades before symptoms manifest, researchers believe that comprehending sleep problems as a risk factor for such diseases is crucial. The study indicates that the quality, rather than the quantity, of sleep plays a significant role in maintaining cognitive health during middle age.
In conclusion, the study highlights the potential long-term consequences of disrupted sleep in one's 30s and 40s. It serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting healthy sleep habits to maintain cognitive function as individuals age.


Patients & Family
Venous thromboembolism, or VTE, refers to blood clots in the venous circulation. VTE includes both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when a blood clot is formed in the veins of the lower extremity. The most common symptoms are swelling, pain, feeling of heaviness and redness of the leg.
Pulmonary embolism, or PE, occurs when a piece of the DVT breaks off and travels to the lung along the veins. The most common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness and possibly coughing up blood.
VTE can be caused by surgeries, broken bones, prolong immobilization, hormone uses and cancer. Other uncommon causes are inherited clotting tendencies and abnormal compression of the veins. Sometime a particular cause cannot be identified.
Patients with VTE should be seen by a physician urgently and started on treatment as soon as possible.
For additional information, see the links below or visit the Thrombosis Canada website for more detail on the different topics of VTE.


An estimated 700,000 Americans are living with a tumor
An estimated 86,970 people will receive a primary brain tumor diagnosis in 2019
The average survival rate for all malignant brain tumor patients is only 35%
An estimated 16,830 people will die from malignant brain tumors (brain cancer) in 2019
Brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors are the most prevalent form of pediatric cancer in kids under 19
Pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer-related death among children and adolescents ages 0-19, surpassing leukemia.
More than any other cancer, brain tumors can have lasting and life-altering physical, cognitive, and psychological impacts on a patient’s life.
Even benign brain tumors can be deadly if they interfere with portions of the brain responsible for vital bodily functions.
There are more than 130 different types of brain tumors, many with their own multitude of subtypes.
Despite the amount of brain tumors, and their devastating prognosis, there have only been four (4) FDA approved drugs – and one device – to treat brain tumors in the past 30 years.
Between 1998 and 2014, there were 78 investigational brain tumor drugs that entered the clinical trial evaluation process. 75 failed. That is a 25:1 failure ratio in developing new brain tumor treatments over the past two decades.
Brain tumors have the highest per-patient initial cost of care for any cancer group, with an annualized mean net costs of care in 2010 US dollars at well over $100,000.
Doctors group brain tumors by grade. The grade of a tumor refers to the way the cells look under a microscope:
Cells from low-grade tumors (grades I and II) look more normal and generally grow more slowly than cells from high-grade tumors (grades III and IV).
Over time, a low-grade tumor may become a high-grade tumor. However, the change to a high-grade tumor happens more often among adults than children.
The median age at diagnosis for all primary brain tumors is 60 years
The cause of brain cancer is usually unknown. Most people diagnosed with a primary brain tumor do not have any known risk factors. However, certain risk factors and genetic conditions have been shown to increase a person’s chances of developing one, including:
The 5-year survival rate tells you what percent of people live at least 5 years after the tumor is found. Percent means how many out of 100. The 5-year survival rate for people with a cancerous brain or CNS tumor is approximately 34% for men and 36% for women. However, survival rates vary widely and depend on several factors, including the type of brain or spinal cord tumor.
Overall, the chance that a person will develop a malignant tumor of the brain or spinal cord in his or her lifetime is less than 1%.
On May 9, 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) published an official reclassification of Tumor Types of the Central Nervous System, which has moved the greater neuro-oncology field toward a more precise and accurate system of brain tumor classification. Based on information from expert neuropathologists and neuro-oncologists, the result of the updated WHO classifications, which integrate molecular information with histology, is that doctors will be better able to more accurately diagnose, make prognoses, plan treatment, and predict therapeutic response for patients. A more precise diagnosis and treatment plan is a win for patients.
The most prevalent brain tumor types in adults:
The most prevalent brain tumor types in children (0-14):
Glioblastoma multiforme—also known as GBM—is the most lethal form of brain cancer in adults. This devastating brain cancer spreads into other parts of the brain very quickly and is usually not surgically curable. Typically, radiation and chemotherapy are given with the hopes of delaying tumor progression.
Medulloblastoma is a cancerous tumor—also called cerebellar primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET)—that starts in the region of the brain at the base of the skull, called the posterior fossa. These tumors tend to spread to other parts of the brain and to the spinal cord.
Survival rates in children with medulloblastoma depend on the patient’s age and how much the tumor spreads.
Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG) are the most common brainstem tumors in children, representing approximately 75-80% of all pediatric brainstem tumors. The tumor is found in a part of the brainstem called the pons. The pons is responsible for a number of important bodily functions, like breathing, sleeping, bladder control, and balance. Because these functions are vital to survival, the pressure from the growing tumor is very dangerous.
A primary brain tumor originates in the central nervous system, while metastatic brain tumors spread to the brain from other parts of the body. Meningiomas account for about 27 percent of primary brain tumors, making them the most common of that type.
A meningioma develops from the meninges, the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas (90 percent) are categorized as benign tumors, with the remaining 10 percent being atypical or malignant. However, the word benign can be misleading in this case, as when benign tumors grow and constrict and affect the brain, they can cause disability and even be life threatening.
The symptoms of a brain tumor depend on tumor size, type, and location. Symptoms may be caused when a tumor presses on a nerve or harms a part of the brain. Also, they may be caused when a tumor blocks the fluid that flows through and around the brain, or when the brain swells because of the buildup of fluid. These are the most common symptoms of brain tumors:
Most often, these symptoms are not due to a brain tumor.
Sophisticated imaging techniques can pinpoint brain tumors. Diagnostic tools include computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other MRI sequences can help the surgeon plan the resection of the tumor based on the location of the normal nerve pathways of the brain. Intraoperative MRI also is used during surgery to guide tissue biopsies and tumor removal. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is used to examine the tumor's chemical profile and determine the nature of the lesions seen on the MRI. Positron emission tomography (PET scan) can help detect recurring brain tumors.
Sometimes the only way to make a definitive diagnosis of a brain tumor is through a biopsy. The neurosurgeon performs the biopsy and the pathologist makes the final diagnosis, determining whether the tumor appears benign or malignant, and grading it accordingly.
Brain Tumor Treatment
Brain tumors (whether primary or metastatic, benign or malignant) usually are treated with surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy — alone or in various combinations. While it is true that radiation and chemotherapy are used more often for malignant, residual or recurrent tumors, decisions as to what treatment to use are made on a case-by-case basis and depend on a number of factors. There are risks and side effects associated with each type of therapy.
Brain Tumor Surgery
It is generally accepted that complete or nearly complete surgical removal of a brain tumor is beneficial for a patient. The neurosurgeon's challenge is to remove as much tumor as possible, without injuring brain tissue important to the patient's neurological function (such as the ability to speak, walk, etc.). Traditionally, neurosurgeons open the skull through a craniotomy to insure they can access the tumor and remove as much of it as possible. A drain (EVD) may be left in the brain fluid cavities at the time of surgery to drain the normal brain fluid as the brain recovers from the surgery.
Another procedure that is commonly performed, sometimes before a craniotomy, is called a stereotactic biopsy. This smaller operation allows doctors to obtain tissue in order to make an accurate diagnosis.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and abnormal brain cells and to shrink tumors. Radiation therapy may be an option if the tumor cannot be treated effectively through surgery.
American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Chemotherapy generally is considered to be effective for specific pediatric tumors, lymphomasand some oligodendrogliomas. While it has been proven that chemotherapy improves overall survival in patients with the most malignant primary brain tumors, it does so in only in about 20 percent of all patients, and physicians cannot readily predict which patients will benefit before treatment. As such, some physicians choose not to use chemotherapy because of the potential side effects (lung scarring, suppression of the immune system, nausea, etc.).
Chemotherapy works by inflicting cell damage that is better repaired by normal tissue than tumor tissue. Resistance to chemotherapy might involve survival of tumor tissue that cannot respond to the drug, or the inability of the drug to pass from the bloodstream into the brain. A special barrier exists between the bloodstream and the brain tissue called the blood-brain barrier. Some investigators have tried to improve the effect of chemotherapy by disrupting this barrier or by injecting the drug into the tumor or brain.
Coping and Support
A diagnosis of a brain tumor can be overwhelming and frightening. It can make you feel like you have little control over your health. But you can take steps to cope with the shock and grief that may come after your diagnosis. Consider trying to:
Ask your doctor about support groups in your area. Or check your phone book, library or a cancer organization, such as the National Cancer Institute or the American Cancer Society.


Infosys Technologies recently announced that it will design and implement the Research Informatics System (RISe) at Elan Pharmaceuticals, a biotechnology company, to accelerate discovery research using a co-creation engagement model that leverages Infosys’ existing intellectual property in this field.
Ajay Shah, Director – Research Informatics, Elan Pharmaceuticals, said, “With Infosys’ solution and engagement model, Elan will be able to lower costs for scientific operation and facilitate innovation.”
As Elan’s informatics system, RISe will leverage Infosys’ Scientific Innovation Solution for knowledge collaboration. Infosys Technologies says the new system will reduce the time spent on registering and experimenting with bio-entities, increase collaboration, and reduce the chances of downstream failure.
The co-creation engagement model enables Infosys to retain ownership of co-developed IP as part of the implementation. Relevant components of this reference implementation can be reused or repurposed by Infosys to deliver faster business benefits at other Life Sciences organizations.
“Elan’s vision to create a scalable research informatics system for scientists to collaborate better, dovetails perfectly with our investments in solutions that improve scientific innovation and our efforts to streamline discovery research,” said R Arun Kumar, head of Infosys’ Global Life Sciences Practice, Infosys Technologies.


Microbial communities in abandoned and flooded mines
Mines have been and are a source of wealth for provinces like Quebec. However, when a mine ceases to operate, groundwater submerges the tunnels dug by man little by little. Mines closed during the 20th century are not subject to regulations and are often left as is. Microorganisms living in the groundwater that submerges the mine galleries, are a source of populations able to adapt to the new artificial aquatic environment that the mine has become.
We are therefore interested in the diversity and functions of microbial populations that live and have adapted in the water that submerged two old iron (Forsyth) and mica (Blackburn) mines in Quebec. We areinterested not only in the study of Bacteria and Archaea, but also in the study of eukaryotic microbes and viruses. This study is also carried out around the anthropological theme of the consequences of natural habitat destruction by humans.
Project led by Elise Lhoste
Collaboration: PTO Exploration (team of technical divers, leader Kevin Brown)
Prof. Benoit Barbeau (UQAM)
Prof. Alison Derry (UQAM)
Prof. David Jaclin (University of Ottawa)


AFRICAN TEAK is a common name for plants like Pterocarpus angolensis,Baikiaea plurijuga, Milicia excelsa, Pericopsis elata. Among the African countries the timber from Pterocarpus angolensis species is best sourced from Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo(DRC). The timber from this species finds a wide range of uses because of its distinctive nature. It is resistant to termite and borer. It is durable and has a pleasing spicy fragrance. The wood from these species polishes well and has an attractive brownish-yellow colour to make it good for making quality furniture.


In Hergé’s Red Rackham’s Treasure, Tintin and Captain Haddock follow a lead to an uninhabited island where they come across a population of parrots with the unnerving ability to squawk Haddockian insults. Tintin hypothesises that an earlier generation of parrots were taught to speak by Captain Haddock’s ancestor who visited the island hundreds of years earlier and the skill was passed on to subsequent generations through a type of avian cultural transmission.
The story may sound a little far-fetched but Martyn Robinson from the Australian Museum has found evidence of a similar process occurring in cockatoos, a species well known for their ability to copy human speech. The most likely scenario is that pet cockatoos have escaped or been released from captivity and taken up residence with a group of wild birds. The exotic sounds of human speech may be more appealing to female cockatoos and have been adopted by the rest of the group.
Naturalist Alexander von Humboldt was exploring the Orinoco River in 1800 when he visited a Maipure village. The inhabitants kept a pet parrot that spoke a different language from their owners. They claimed that the parrot had belonged to members of the Ature tribe and spoke their language. The Ature had died out some years earlier and Humboldt realised that the parrot was the last speaker of the language. He recorded forty words which remain the only record of the Ature tongue.
Lyrebirds are superb mimics; an individual may have a repertoire of dozens of other bird calls. They are also able to convincingly recreate sounds of human activity such as chainsaws, car alarms and cameras. These appear to be passed down to subsequent generations since lyrebirds alive today are still heard to make the sounds of older style camera shutters, axes and saws which have not been heard in the lyrebirds’ habitat for many years.
The lyrebirds of Tasmania, introduced to the island in the 1930s, retained the call of the Eastern Whipbird, a species not present on the island, until at least the 1960s and possibly into the 1980s, although with decreasing fidelity.
In 1969, a park ranger in the New England National Park heard a lyrebird reproducing the sound of a flute. The bird was singing fragments of two songs popular in the 1930s, The Keel Row and Mosquito’s Dance. A farmer in the area who had kept a pet lyrebird forty years earlier was known to play a flute. Flute sounds still exist in the repertoire of some of the lyrebirds in the area.


I've been growing my hair out for the past 3 years. This was an interesting article in a newsletter I just got. Since I make shampoo I'm always looking for ways to enhance it.
How to grow long hair and keep it healthy
There are around 100,000 strands of hair on the average person’s head. Hair grows at a rate of approximately a half an inch per month.
There is no magic food or ingredient that might help hair grow in an instant. If you have short hair and you are growing it long: be patient! Even so there are ways to enhance your hair growing cycle. Vitamins and minerals, for instance, can help boost your health and keep your hair healthy. Since your hair often reflects your overall health, exercise and taking care of your general well-being will help maximize your hair growing potential.
Tips on how to make your hair grow more healthily:
Watch what you eat: Food that can enhance hair growth include: dark green vegetables, carrots, seafood, dairy foods, cabbage, yogurt, a balanced source of iron such as in liver, poultry, whole grains, egg and fish, bananas as a source of potassium and don’t forget to drink plenty water to wash chemicals and toxins out of your body.
Exercise and Relaxation: Exercise helps improve the circulation which is vital for hair growth. Massaging the scalp with a few drops of Vitamin E oil can also help strengthen fragile or damaged hair.
Cut out smoking, caffeine and alcohol: People who don’t eat healthily but drink excessively are at risk of hair loss. Alcohol affects the liver which is critical for managing the body’s metabolism. Smoking too, has been found to possibly accelerate hair loss.
Herbs that might help hair grow:
There are some herbs that have been found to enhance hair condition. These include Gingko which helps with the circulation which is essential for hair growth; Birch Oil which is thought to help slow down hair loss, Rosemary helps the hair grow shinier and Chamomile can help calm an itchy scalp which could cause hair loss.
Take care of your hair: Minimize anything that might encourage split ends such as hair-dryers, tongs and heating appliances, hair sprays etc. Find a conditioner that suits the condition of your hair and use it regularly. Get your hair trimmed every six to eight weeks to prevent split ends.
Life and Hair Loss:
At times in life, due to health and circumstances, hair can be seen to go through phases and hair loss may for instance be experienced in women after giving birth, people with diabetes or with thyroid health disease. Stress can also cause hair loss.
How to Add Volume to Hair:
There are many products on the market that promise to add volume to hair: again experiment and choose the best one for you. Whether your hair is short, medium or long a good cut can do a lot to give hair movement and fullness.
No matter how long it takes for your hair to grow, the more effort you put into keeping your hair in good condition, will help keep your hair more manageable as it grows.


Piedmontese cattle are missing the myostatin gene which works in traditional cattle to inhibit their overall muscle mass and are often described as "double muscled". Because they develop extra muscle, they develop very little fat. The beef remains tender and juicy without the heavy marbling of traditional cattle breeds.
Piedmontese are not genetically modified for this unique double muscling, the absence of the myostatin gene is a natural evolution of the breed.
Copyright © 2023 Balcony Beef - All Rights Reserved.


Blocked Milk Ducts, blebs and mastitis – what, why and how?
“What are blocked milk ducts?” I hear you say! Or, perhaps you’re here because you’re currently breastfeeding and have found a lump, pain or redness in your breast. It can feel really overwhelming and daunting knowing what to do to manage pain and/or breast lumps when breastfeeding! Hopefully by the end of this article you’ll have plenty of ideas of things to try.
Milk ducts are essentially tiny tubes running from our alveoli (milk producing, tiny balloon-like structures) to and through our nipples. Sometimes, milk ducts clog, causing the milk behind the blockage to build up. This milk build up can result in a lump, pain, engorgement (firmness) and redness, and if not treated, mastitis. So, why does this happen?
Blocked Milk Ducts, blebs and mastitis – The causes…
There are a variety of reasons milk ducts can get blocked, including (and possibly not limited to!):
- Latch and positioning not quite right – A well positioned baby will drain the breast, ‘flushing’ the milk ducts.
- Large gaps between feeds – These can result in engorgement and eventually blocked milk ducts.
- Pressure on or damage to the breasts – For some women, wearing a singlet or crop is enough pressure to cause blockages! A change in bra or clothing, sleeping on your tummy or damage to the breast can lead to blockages too.
- Damage to the nipple – Any cracks, grazes, scabs, bites and/or infections can prevent the milk flowing from the nipple.
- Difficulties getting a let down and/or stress – The let down is when breastmilk flows to your baby. Some mums experience a tingling or full feeling to their breasts, will feel really thirsty or have to take a big, deep breath. Others only notice the let down based on a change in baby’s sucking pattern (from suck-suck to the rhythmic suck-swallow) or milk flowing into a pump. Distracted babies and tense or stressed mums can inhibit the let down. You can stimulate this using warmth before and during the feed, gentle massage, focusing on baby (or photos of bub), taking big breaths, or focusing on letting the milk flow. More let downs = more chances to clear a blockage!
Other potential causes less often recognised
- Diet – Avoid eating lots of processed, fatty or sugary foods to help reduce inflammation in the body (and breasts).
- Run down mum – Some women notice being run down or not getting enough rest (laughable with a baby!) predisposes them to blockages.
- Vasospasm – Vasospasm is the sudden contraction of blood vessels. When it happens in our breasts it can restrict the flow of milk from the nipple causing (you guessed it!) a blockage. Using warmth before, during and after feeds, ensuring you’re in a warm space and away from a breeze/air conditioner can help reduce vasospasm.
Treatment of blocked milk ducts
Physical treatment options
There are lots of different options that work for different women, but the top 4 tend to be most commonly suggested:
- Feed, feed, feed – The more you feed/pump and get a let down (see tips above), the better to clear the duct.
- Warmth – Warmth on the breast before and during a feed or pumping can help!
- Massage (GENTLY) – Massage reduces breast pain. However, I suggest always go gently if you massage at all, and do so with the palm rather than fingertips.
- Position changes – Rotate baby so their chin is where the lump sits to help ‘massage’ the blockage out. However, rotating position at all, even if bub’s chin isn’t on the lump, potentially drains the breast slightly differently.
- Reduce the pressure – Any pressure on the breast from a top, crop bra or otherwise can inhibit drainage from the breast. I suggest sitting in your dressing gown and feed, feed, feed. Likewise, try not to sleep on your tummy or in positions with pressure on your breasts.
- Dangle feeding – As in the image on the left above, dangle feeding, using gravity, can help clear those milk ducts!
- Check baby’s latch (or your pump setup) – If bub isn’t latching well, or your pump isn’t quite right for you, this influences drainage. Give the ABA or an IBCLC a call, or contact me!
- Vibration and/or therapeutic ultrasound – ‘Vibrating’ the blockage (electric toothbrush, vibrator etc) can help break apart clogs. Therapeutic ultrasound apparently does this whilst also dilating milk ducts. Many women’s health physios offer therapeutic ultrasound.
- Five Step Systematic Therapy (FSST) – A therapy for treating blocked ducts involving laser therapy, pumping, massage, magnesium sulfate and education.
Other options (these are sometimes a little harder to arrange!)…
- Rest – Rest not just yourself (yes, go to bed!) but also your breasts! Constantly feeding and pumping can cause swelling, bruising and/or localised oedema in your breast tissue. So feed frequently and well, but give yourself breaks in between feeds to recover too.
- Eat well – Cut out the crap to reduce inflammation (I know it’s hard on no sleep!). Processed foods, dairy, sugar and gluten (and others) increase inflammation in the body.
- Acupuncture – In dairy cattle, acupuncture reduces the incidence of mastitis (and can increase milk supply). Low level research supports the same effect in women.
- Cabbage leaves! Or cold compresses – After the feed, using cold cabbage leaves or compresses helps reduce inflammation, pain and hardness of the breasts.
- Drink lots of water – Staying well hydrated is important, especially if you end up with a temperature or fever! So drink lots of water, often, to support your body.
- Myofascial release – This is one that isn’t often suggested, but can be SO amazing! I encourage you to give it a go! By releasing fascia restrictions the milk ducts are free to flow. For a discussion of these techniques from an Osteopath, check out this link!
Supplements and other things that might help…
The research is limited in this area. If there is a highlighted, linked item it’s because there is some research to support it. I include all methods I know of as anecdotes can be helpful too! Sometimes anecdotes are just responses that we dont yet have data to back up; worth keeping in your arsenal, ready.
- Lecithin – Many IBCLCs and women note that lecithin reduces the ‘stickiness’ of milk, helping it flow freely. There is no research to support it to my knowledge.
- Probiotics – This is a review on the research behind probiotic use for mastitis; we need more research. However, some studies report a correlation between probiotic use and reduction or prevention of mastitis. If you’re going down this route Lactobacillus fermentum and L. salivarius are the bacteria you need.
- Magnesium, calcium and Nifedipine – Magnesium, calcium and Nifedipine reduce the incidence of vasospasm, a causative factor for blockages (see above). There is no research on magnesium use for women without vasospasm, so it’s unknown whether it would help.
- Vitamin B6, Fish Oil and Nifedipine – These are again supplements or medications that can reduce the incidence of vasospasm, a causative factor for blockages.
- Ibuprofin – Ibuprofin reduces inflammation in the body (and breast tissue), reducing pressure on milk ducts. This can allow the milk to flow more easily.
- Magnesium sulfate soak – Magnesium sulfate (epsom salts) soaks supposedly reduce inflammation and get the milk flowing. Some research supports its use.
- Homeopathics – Many women swear by Belladonna, Phytolacca and Poke Root for relieving mastitis. I suggest speaking with a homeopath/herbalist directly.
What about recurring blocked milk ducts!?
Recurring blockages, regardless of the type, are painful and so upsetting! If you can’t find the cause and you’ve tried the ideas above, seek additional help. Please reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for help or contact me for a lactation consult!
Mastitis? What is it? What do I do?
Mastitis is breast inflammation, not infection, though it can sometimes occur due to an infective agent (typically the bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus). The key difference between mastitis and a blocked milk duct is the systemic signs of illness, including:
- Headache or body aches
- Feeling ill
- Shivers/lack of temperature control
Mastitis caused by a blocked milk duct is treatable as described above, without antibiotics. However, if you find you’re struggling to treat the blockage and/or you’ve had systemic illness signs for 24 hours without improvement, it’s worth following up. Many GPs will prescribe antibiotics for mastitis. While sometimes useful, clearing the blockage is still necessary. The reason GPs are cautious and prescribe antibiotics is to avoid mastitis developing into a breast abscess. These are uncommon, but it’s worth being aware that they do occur sometimes, particularly when mastitis isn’t treated appropriately. Some GPs are really knowledgeable about breastfeeding and will give fantastic advice, but this isn’t the common experience. Please reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for help or contact me for a lactation consult if you need.
What happens after I clear the blockage?
Just keep on feeding! Some women will notice a huge increase in milk supply and engorgement following blocked duct treatment. If this is the case for you, progressively cut back feeds/pumping until it is just as much as your baby needs. You can use cold cabbage leaves as noted above to help curb the milk supply and reduce any engorgement/inflammation too. I typically suggest listening to your breasts and pumping whenever you feel engorgement or lumpiness to the breasts.
Reach out for help!
If you need any help at all, please let me know! I have been assisting mums through issues, like blocked milk ducts for years, and will soon qualify as an IBCLC (I may already be one depending on when you read this!). Furthermore, I have personal experience with navigating the hurdles of recurring blocked milk ducts and mastitis. I’m here for you!
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Who am I?
Hello, I’m Aimee! I support women and their families through pregnancy, birth, postpartum and breastfeeding. I am a qualified and experienced Doula and breastfeeding counsellor, providing support in the Blue Mountains and surrounds. I’d love to meet you for an obligation free catch up! Contact me here.


Can Coffee Protect Against Common Cancers?
Two New Studies Show Coffee Guards Against Liver and
Two separate studies, reported in the Feb. 16 issue of The Journal of the National Cancer Institute, examined the impact of coffee drinking on cancer risk.
Is Decaffeinated Coffee Really Best?
In the Harvard study, researchers examined data from two large, ongoing health trials involving 134,000 people. The participants were questioned about their coffee, tea, and caffeine consumption at different time periods over the course of 15 years.
Researcher Karin B. Michels, ScD, and colleagues found no association between consumption of caffeinated coffee or tea and colorectal cancer risk. But people who regularly drank two or more cups of decaffeinated coffee a day had about half the rate of rectal cancer as people who never drank decaffeinated coffee.
Michels tells WebMD that she initially thought the apparent protection could be explained by the fact that the decaffeinated coffee drinkers tended to have healthier lifestyles than the people who drank caffeinated coffee. But tea drinkers in the study also tended to have healthier habits, but had the same cancer risk as people who drank caffeinated coffee.
Even though she says now she believes that decaffeinated coffee may have unique cancer-fighting benefits, the researcher is not yet recommending that people switch from high-test to low.
"I would definitely like to see more studies that focus on decaffeinated coffee," she says.
Coffee and Liver Cancer
The second study, reported by researchers from
The researchers reported that people who drank coffee every day or almost daily had about half the liver cancer risk as those who never drank coffee. The more coffee people drank the lower their risk. And the protective benefits appeared to extend to those with chronic hepatitis C and B infections. They are at very high risk for developing liver cancer.
The study did not distinguish between caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee consumption, because few Japanese people drink decaffeinated coffee.
Nutritional epidemiologist Nancy Potischman, PhD, tells WebMD that the fact that liver cancer is common in
She also found it compelling that the more coffee people drank the more they seemed to be protected from liver cancer.
"That is a good indication of a real effect and not just something that is seen by chance," she says. "As an epidemiologist I always want to see more evidence, but these findings are very compelling."
For a nation fueled by Starbucks, studies suggesting that coffee drinkers may be at decreased risk for several major diseases, including Parkinson's and diabetes, is welcome news.
WebMD even recently reported on two studies from The Journal of the National Cancer Institute showing that coffee may significantly lower the risk of colon and liver cancers.
But there is also evidence that coffee may increase the risk of heart disease for some, and a new study from
Researchers from the
The findings are reported in the June 1 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
The researchers had already linked coffee drinking to increased indicators of inflammation, one of the key mechanisms to the development of heart disease. And they have also reported that combining coffee with cigarette smoking seems to be much worse for the heart than smoking alone.
"The evidence regarding coffee is far less conclusive than it is for smoking," study researcher
Previous studies evaluating coffee's role in promoting high blood pressure and heart disease have been conflicting. Though some suggest a strong link, others have found no link at all or even a health benefit to coffee drinking.
The latest research by Vlachopoulos and colleagues included 228 healthy adults whose average age was 41. The researchers used food-frequency questionnaires to determine how much coffee each study participant drank. They took into account whether participants drank instant coffee, brewed coffee, Greek-type coffee, cappuccino, or filtered coffee. They analyzed the data to account for each cup of coffee containing 80 milligrams of caffeine.
They also measured blood vessel wall abnormalities -- wall stiffness, the inability to expand and contract and a sign of unhealthy blood vessels.
Compared with people who did not drink coffee, people who drank two or more cups of coffee a day showed more abnormalities in blood vessel function. Blood vessel stiffness is an indictor of heart disease risk. The association remained strong even after taking into account other heart disease risk factors like smoking, obesity, and age.
But nutrition researcher Alice Lichtenstein, DSc, says the lifestyle differences between the coffee drinkers and non-coffee drinkers were so great that it would be difficult for the researchers to take these into account.
Lichtenstein is a senior scientist and director of the Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory at
In the study, people who drank two or more cups of coffee a day were almost nine times more likely than non-coffee drinkers to smoke cigarettes. They were also 2.5 times as likely to be obese. In general, people who drank no coffee also tended to be younger than those who drank coffee.
Age, cigarette smoking and obesity are three risk factors for heart disease. "It is more likely that heart disease risk is determined by a number of dietary and lifestyle components together, rather than individual foods," she tells WebMD.
Moderation Is Key
Lichtenstein agrees that as a whole, the research on coffee and health remains inconclusive. She adds that java junkies can probably relax if they drink coffee in moderation and reserve the cream and sugar-laden specialty coffees for special occasions.
While coffee itself has no calories, the "tall" version of, say, a double-mocha latte with whipped cream can contain more calories, fat, and sugar than a typical fast-food meal.
Vlachopoulos says it is increasingly clear that coffee consumption is an important risk factor for heart disease when combined with smoking.
"The message to smokers would be to stop, and if they can't stop they shouldn't drink coffee," he says.
SOURCES: Charalambos, V. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, June 2005; vol 81: pp 1307-1312. Charalambos Vlachopoulos, MD, department of cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Greece. Alice Lichtenstein, DSc, senior scientist, director, Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory,
*looks at her 5th cup of coffee and sighs* Damn .. I need to cut back ..


In the dynamic world of skincare, advancements and innovations continually emerge, promising rejuvenated, youthful skin. Among these breakthroughs stands LUNA, a Polynucleotide (PN) skin booster, poised to revolutionize the way we approach skin rejuvenation and regeneration.
Imagine a skincare solution that taps into the body’s natural healing mechanisms to stimulate collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. LUNA does precisely that, harnessing the power of Polynucleotide technology to deliver remarkable results.
But what exactly is Polynucleotide technology, and how does it work?
Polynucleotides, or PN, are chains of nucleotides found in DNA and RNA, the building blocks of life. In skincare, PN derived from salmon DNA are utilized for their remarkable regenerative properties. These molecules have the ability to penetrate deep into the skin, where they stimulate cellular repair and renewal processes.
LUNA utilizes PN technology in a concentrated serum form. Upon application, the PN molecules penetrate the skin’s layers, triggering a cascade of biological responses that promote collagen synthesis, enhance tissue repair, and improve overall skin health.
One of the key benefits of LUNA is its ability to address multiple skincare concerns simultaneously. Whether you’re battling signs of aging, sun damage, or environmental stressors, LUNA offers a comprehensive solution for skin rejuvenation. By promoting collagen production and enhancing skin elasticity, LUNA helps to minimize the appearance of dark circle’s ,wrinkles and fine lines, resulting in smoother, firmer skin.
Furthermore, LUNA’s regenerative properties make it an excellent choice for improving skin texture and tone. Whether you’re dealing with rough patches, uneven pigmentation, or dullness, LUNA can help restore your skin’s natural radiance and vitality.
Another noteworthy aspect of LUNA is its compatibility with various skincare treatments and procedures. Whether used alone or in conjunction with other skincare modalities such as microneedling , LUNA can enhance and prolong the results of these treatments, leading to more dramatic improvements in skin texture and appearance.
In a world inundated with skincare products promising miraculous results, LUNA stands out as a scientifically backed, clinically proven solution for skin rejuvenation. By harnessing the power of Polynucleotide technology, LUNA offers a holistic approach to skincare that addresses the root causes of aging and damage, resulting in radiant, youthful skin.
As we continue to unlock the secrets of nature’s healing powers, innovations like LUNA pave the way for a new era of skincare—one that is grounded in science, yet inspired by the wonders of the natural world. So why wait? Experience the transformative power of LUNA and rediscover the beauty of your skin.


Large scaly-skinned reptile with a long, low body and short legs. Crocodiles can grow up to 7 m/23 ft in length, and have long, powerful tails that propel them when swimming. They are found near swamps, lakes, and rivers in Asia, Africa, Australia, and Central America. They are fierce hunters and active mainly at night. Young crocodiles eat worms and insects, but as they mature they add frogs and small fish to their diet. Adult crocodiles will attack animals the size of antelopes and, occasionally, people. They can live up to 100 years and are related to the alligator and the smaller cayman.
There are 15 species of crocodile, all of them endangered, found in tropical parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, and Central America. The largest is the saltwater (indopacific) crocodile Crocodylus porosus, which can grow to 7 m/23 ft or more, and is found in eastern India, Australia, and the western Pacific, in both freshwater and saltwater habitats. The Nile crocodile C. niloticus is found in Africa and reaches 6 m/20 ft. The American crocodile C. acutus, about 4.6 m/15 ft long, is found from southern Florida to Ecuador. The gavial, or gharial, Gavialis gangeticus is sometimes placed in a family of its own. It is an Indian species that grows to 6.5 m/21 ft or more, and has a very long narrow snout specialized for capturing and eating fish. The Cuban crocodile C. rhombifer has a short snout, grows up to 3.5 m/11.5 ft, and lives in freshwater swamps in Cuba. Morelet's crocodile C. moreletti is found in Central America, where it is overhunted, and grows up to 3.5 m/11.5 ft. Johnston's crocodile C. johnstoni is an Australian crocodile that feeds mainly on fish and reaches up to 3 m/9.75 ft in length. The Siamese crocodile C. siamensis is found in the wild in Cambodia and Laos. These populations consist of only a few hundred crocodile, making the Siamese one of the most endangered crocodile species. The Philippine crocodile C. mindorensis is found in the Philippine Islands and grows to just under 3 m/9.75 ft. C. palustris is an Indian crocodile resembling the Nile crocodile but smaller, reaching up to 4 m/13 ft. The Orinoco crocodile C. intermedius grows up to 6 m/19.5 ft. Tomistoma schlegelli is found in rivers in India and Indochina and grows up to 4 m/13 ft. The African slender-snouted crocodile C. cataphractus grows up to 4 m/13 ft and is found in western and central Africa. Osteolaemus tetraspis, the dwarf crocodile, reaches only 2 m/6.6 ft in length and is found in the tropical forests of west and central Africa. The New Guinea crocodile C. novaguineae reaches 7 m/23 ft in length.


Marijuana is one of the most commonly used drug in the world. There is a growing gap between the latest scientific studies about marijuana and the myths surrounding it. Some people think that as it is legalized in some places, then it must be safe. But your body does not distinguish between a legalized drug and an illicit drug. It only feels the effect that the drug creates after you have used it. Marijuana comes from the hemp plant, and the drug-containing part is found mostly in the flowers, or bud. There are over 400 chemicals contained in marijuana. The chemical that causes intoxication or the “high” in users is called THC (abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol). THC creates the mind-altering effects, which characterizes marijuana as a “drug.” Intoxicating literally means “poisoning by putting a toxic substance inside your body”. Any substance that intoxicates causes changes in body and mind. It can create addiction and/or dependency, making the person want to use this drug even if it harmful to them. It may be that you have heard someone say that because marijuana is a plant, it is “natural”, therefore, harmless. However, this information happens to be inaccurate. Also, burning dried leaves and flower buds and inhaling the smoke is not “natural” and as in the case of smoking cigarettes, can be harmful to the body. After marijuana usage, THC – the primary psychoactive drug ingredient – can remain in the body for up to several months. The duration that THC (or its metabolites – chemical compounds produced to eliminate the drug from the body) can stay in the system varies according to the person and depends on numerous health and lifestyle factors.
- Metabolism– Metabolism plays an important role in determining the rate of metabolism and expulsion of THC from the system. All have a different rate of metabolism, which is determined by height, weight, sex, physical activity level, and genetics.
- Body fat– THC builds up in the fat cells. This means that after use, it becomes more densely concentrated in fatty organs – such as the brain, ovaries, and testes. THC metabolites can be detected in body fat for up to one month after ingestion and exercise releases the THC into the blood stream.
- Frequency of use– The frequency with which you use marijuana helps determine the extent of your detectable period. Because THC and metabolites remain in the body even after their effects have passed, frequent use will cause levels of these chemicals to accumulate, eventually remaining at a high rate. Thus, addicted users will often test positive for longer than those who smoke occasionally if they both stop using marijuana at the same time.
- Potency– The potency of marijuana also affects how long the drug remains in the body. Strong marijuana – that is, marijuana with a high level of THC – will remain in the body longer than one of lower quality.
- Exercises and lifestyle– The frequency of exercise is known to affect ones’ THC level – although little is known precisely “how” such exercises affect that level.
The detoxification symptoms from marijuana vary from each person and they can cause serious discomfort. The most common withdrawal symptoms for a chronic user are insomnia, depression, and feeling of anger. Other symptoms include decrease in sex drive, anxiety, headaches, nausea, restlessness, cravings for marijuana, and poor appetite. Using and abusing this drug can cause serious problems just like any other drug and should be dealt with the same way as any other addiction. For more info on drug and alcohol treatment be sure to contact us with any inquiries.


TestRX Ingredients, What’s in TestRX
ZMA (Zinc Monomethionine Aspartate, Magnesium Aspartate, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
ZMA is a major muscle booster. A 2000 study found it increased HGH and testosterone, both of which help muscle growth and athletic performance, in NCAA football players after just seven weeks. ZMA might also help your immune system and energy levels. We’ve barely scratched the surface on this exciting combination.
Fenugreek Seed Extract (50% Saponins) – 300 Mg Per Serving
Fenugreek may help you bust fat. It’s an Indian herb that’s rich in a compound called 4-hydroxyisoleucine. A 2010 study found it helped male volunteers lower their body fat and boost their testosterone and bioavailability. Your libido might like it, too. In a 2011 study, they discovered that fenugreek boosted arousal and libido in guys without erectile dysfunction.
Vitamin D3 – 1,140 IU Per Serving
A 2011 study of 165 volunteers found vitamin D3 boosted total bioactive and free testosterone by almost 25% when supplemented for a year. “The Sunshine Vitamin” supports a variety of essential functions from calcium absorption to boosting testosterone, with the latter being important for muscle development.
Viyamin K2 (MK4) – 20 MCG Per Serving
Vitamin K is a group of compounds, of which K2 is especially important. Vitamin K2 appears to help reduce bone loss, stabilize testosterone levels, and may help the cardiovascular system, as well, all of which helps in the weight room.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCL) – 5 Mg Per Serving
A 1984 study suggests Vitamin B6 influences testosterone and other steroid hormones, most likely by recycling receptors from the nucleus to cytosol after initial translocation. The English version is that it seems to tell the testes to make more testosterone. Vitamin B6 may also influence estrogen levels, which contributes to the complex dance of your hormones and wellness.
Magnesium (Magnesium Aspartate) – 200 Mg Per Serving
The next time you’re tempted to put back an energy drink, try magnesium instead. A 1998 study revealed that this second most common electrolyte in the body helped triathletes significantly reduce their time to swim, run and bike long distances, with no rest in between. It’s also linked to higher testosterone and physical strength.
Zinc (Zinc Monomethionine) – 10 Mg Per Serving
Zinc may help preserve your testosterone. A 2006 study found exhausted wrestlers who supplemented with zinc preserved their testosterone and athletic performance. It may help your virility, too. In a 1981 study of men with low testosterone, they took zinc and recovered their sexual performance.
D-Aspartic Acid – 2300 Mg Per Serving
D Aspartic Acid (D-AA) is a powerful testosterone booster. It helps testosterone synthesis, primarily in the central brain, where it stimulates luteinizing hormone (LH) and growth hormone (HGH), which tells the testes to make more testosterone. That’s supported by a 2009 study, which found D-AA boosted testosterone in 20 out of 23 guys by up to 43% after just 12 days.
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This pack contains 22 flashcards. You will receive a PDF digital file for download after purchase.
Plants play an important role in our daily lives and it’s essential for children to learn about them at an early age. From the food we eat to the air we breathe, plants have a significant impact on our well-being. As a parent or teacher, you can make learning about plants both fun and interactive for kids by using flashcards.
Flashcards are a simple yet effective tool that helps children learn and retain information in a fun and engaging way. By using flashcards, you can make learning about plant parts and functions an interactive and enjoyable experience for kids. With colorful illustrations and clear labeling, flashcards help kids identify different parts of plants, such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits, and understand their functions.
The use of flashcards is a great way to encourage kids to take an active role in learning about plants. As kids flip through the cards, they can test their knowledge by matching the part with its function or identifying the different parts of a plant. This interactive approach makes learning about plants an enjoyable and memorable experience for kids.
In addition, flashcards are a convenient tool for busy parents and teachers. They can easily be stored and taken on-the-go, making it easy to squeeze in some plant learning anytime, anywhere. Whether it’s at home, in the park, or on a trip, flashcards provide a simple and portable way to learn about plants.
In conclusion, flashcards are a fun and interactive way to teach kids about plant parts and functions. With colorful illustrations and clear labeling, they help kids understand the important role that plants play in our daily lives and encourage an active learning experience. So, why not get a set of flashcards today and start your child on a journey of learning about the fascinating world of plants!