Q: Mold is just one of the many types of fungi that humans are in contact with every day. Molds are scientifically defined as multicellular organisms of the kingdom fungi (a taxonomic order at the same level as plants or animals). The single mold organism, made up of genetically identical cells, is known as a mycelium. Most people recognize mold as the furry or discolored patch on a slice of bread or a piece of fruit, but not all molds are undesirable. Some molds aid in the preservation of foodsas is the case with some cheeses. Others (penicillin) have provided life-saving antibiotics to human beings. Molds and other fungi also play a vital role in the process of decomposition. They break down the structures of plant and animal cells and allow the nutrients they contain to re-enter the food web. Molds are living things, and in fact, their cell structures are more like that of animals than plants. Like all living things, molds need water, a food source, and the right environment in order to thrive. Much like animals, molds (and all fungi) cannot produce food internally. All of the calories and nutrients that they require to function must be obtained from an external source. Molds, as a broad category, are not choosy. Some grow well in starchy foods, others target fruits and vegetables, while others still will sprout from the tiny shreds of organic matter (mostly paper) in moist drywall. Molds survive best in damp or wet environments. Of course, most living things live close to water, but molds are especially dependent upon it. Unlike both plants and animals, molds employ a process of external digestion. Dry environments make the absorption of nutrients difficult for molds. They will not thrive without access to moisture. Most forms of mold also prefer warm temperatures. There are two primary reasons for this. The enzymes that molds use in both external digestion and internal cell processes function best at temperatures well above the freezing point. In addition, molds are multicellular organisms without complex circulatory systems. It is easier to transfer nutrients from cell to cell in warm environments than in cold ones. Though a few molds are actually light sensitive, most are not directly affected by sunlight. Molds typically do not grow in sunny places only because such areas are at risk of drying out.
A: Understand what mold is. Get to know how molds impact life on earth. Know the three things that all molds need.

Q: Dehydration is one of the main sources of hyperkalemia. Consuming 10 12 glasses a day will help keep your potassium levels stable. If you don't like water, you can try flavoring it with cut up fruit. As another option, drink more tea. Two servings daily should be your limit (or no more than 1 cup). Rice milk is generally an acceptable substitute. Many fruit and vegetable juices especially orange juice and carrot juice are high in potassium. Some juices are also blends of different fruits so while some fruits like grapes and cranberries are fine for a low-potassium diet, you should make sure the juice does not include any high-potassium juices. Watch out for smoothies; many of them contain large amounts of bananas, which are very high in potassium.
A: Drink plenty of water. Limit your milk intake, as most dairy products are high in potassium. Cut juices out of your diet.

Q: Some people are more prone to folic acid deficiency than others because of genetic causes, intestinal issues, chronic illness, and the use of certain medications. Talk to your physician if you have risk factors that may prevent you from absorbing enough folic acid. Genetic mutations such as polymorphism (a genetic variance or flaw) can be a risk factor for folic acid deficiency. Known as a MTHFR mutation, your body may have trouble making an enzyme called methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase which is critical for the body's processing of folic acid. Chronic illnesses that affect absorption in the gastrointestinal tract may also cause folic acid deficiencies. If you suffer from Crohn's or celiac disease, or are on dialysis, discuss strategies with your doctor to ensure you are ingesting enough folic acid. A number of common medications may interfere with folic acid absorption, including anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, and antacids. If you are being treated for a particular condition, do not take folic acid supplements without first discussing it with your physician. Anemia is a tell-tale sign of a folate deficiency, so knowing the symptoms can help you identify if you're having trouble absorbing folic acid. Symptoms of anemia include weakness, lack of concentration, and lightheadedness. Other symptoms may include diarrhea, numbness of the hands and feet, muscle weakness, and depression. Both vitamin b12 and folic acid deficiencies can cause anemia. Taking folic acid supplements alone can mask anemia caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency, and vice versa. To make sure you're getting enough of both, take vitamin B12 and folic acid together. Vitamin B12 and folic acid work synergistically to support heart and nerve health. Taking a folic acid supplement just before you eat a meal will ensure that your body digests it along with your food. Make it a habit to take your supplement before you eat so you're getting your daily recommended amount of folic acid. Stick to a schedule. Because daily intake is important for folic acid, take it at a convenient time when you will remember. If you have trouble, set an alarm on your phone or computer. Alcohol can affect your body's ability to absorb folic acid so avoid drinking more than 2-3 alcoholic drinks a day. Try to minimize your use of alcohol or stop drinking completely, especially if you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant, to increase your folic acid absorption. Alcohol can also cause you to excrete folic acid in your urine, lowering the level in your body. If you're struggling to quit drinking, try getting help from a counselor or a program such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Alcoholics with folate deficiency are more at risk to develop liver injuries. Folic acid is destroyed by air and heat and the amount present in the foods can decrease significantly if food is improperly stored, overcooked, or reheated. Steaming is an excellent method for cooking vegetables since it preserves vitamins, including folate, better than boiling Orange juice or a vitamin C supplement can aid in the body's absorption of nutrients including folic acid. Vitamin C also plays an essential role in the way your body metabolizes folic acid, so add a tasty glass of orange juice or take a supplement at least once a day to boost your folic acid absorption.
A:
Talk to your doctor about risk factors that affect folic acid absorption. Discuss the symptoms of anemia with your doctor so you're aware of them. Combine vitamin B12 with folic acid to help with absorption. Take the folic acid within 30 minutes of eating a meal. Consume alcohol in moderation. Choose raw or steamed fruits and vegetables to get more vitamins. Drink a glass of orange juice to get more vitamin C.