#Common nutrient deficiencies

[traaansfem]

why have i been craving fish for the past three days

what did you do to me...

Seek Salmon! :3

[donuts4evry1]

so guess who went to the Aquarium of the Pacifc? (Me, it was me)

[palsaa]

If iron levels drop excessively, it can also lead to anemia. When this happens, red blood cells become smaller than normal, which leads to less hemoglobin. Due to this, numerous conditions compass the body.

[pierrotdoesnteat]

NUTRITION JOURNALS: VITAMINS (PT 1/2)

HOW MANY VITAMINS ARE THERE?

- there are thirteen (13) essential vitamins; vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pathogenic acid (B5), biotin (B7), and folate (B9). these are the ones i'll focus on in this past, and it will be a longer post.

WHAT IS VITAMIN A?

- vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that supports your immune system, vision, reproductive health, and fetal growth. there are two forms of vitamin A; preformed vitamin A which are found in things like dairy, liver, and fish, and provitamin A carotenoids which can be found in fruits, vegetables, and oils. - The recommended daily amount of vitamin A is 900 micrograms (mcg) for adult men and 700 mcg for adult women.

WHAT IS VITAMIN B6?

- vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is important for normal brain development and for keeping the nervous system and immune system healthy. Food sources of vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, potatoes, chickpeas, bananas and fortified cereals. - vitamin B6 has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and helps your body to make DNA, hemoglobin, and neurotransmitters. - in addition to low iron, low vitamin B6 has been linked to anemia, which i dont imagine i need to tell yall is incredibly common in disordered people. - because B6 is connected to neurotransmitters, it can help regulate mood and even aid sleep. One study showed that higher vitamin B6 intake is associated with lower depression and anxiety risk in females, but not males. - vitamin B6 also helps your body maintain normal levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that helps to build proteins. - vitamin B6 supplementation specifically has been shown to improve body composition �� your ratio of lean muscle to fat. it has also been linked with higher muscle mass and lower body fat levels. in particular, vitamin B6 supplementation has been linked to lower-body weight loss, with a reduced amount of fat across the hips and waist.

WHAT IS VITAMIN B12?

- vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) plays an essential role in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and the production of DNA, the molecules inside cells that carry genetic information. - sources of vitamin B-12 include poultry, meat, fish and dairy products. Vitamin B-12 is also added to some foods, such as fortified breakfast cereals, and is available as an oral supplement. - some studies suggest that vitamin B12 could affect body fat and metabolism. one review concluded that vitamin B12 plays a key role in fat metabolism, noting that a deficiency could be linked to increased fat accumulation and obesity. take this with a grain of salt, though, because there is limited research on the topic. - vitamin B12 plays a role in serotonin production, so a deficiency may be connected with clinical depression. this may feel irrelevant, but your physical and mental health are really complexly connected. taking care of one can help improve the other.

WHAT IS VITAMIN C?

- vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a nutrient your body needs to form blood vessels, cartilage, muscle and collagen in bones. vitamin C is also vital to your body's healing process. additionally, it is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells against the effects of free radicals- molecules produced when your body breaks down food or is exposed to tobacco smoke and radiation from the sun, x-rays or other sources. - vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, brussel sprouts, broccoli and spinach. - vitamin C helps your body to absorb iron in foods like beans and spinach, who's bio-availability is lower. - although vitamin C doesn't necessarily cause weight loss, it seems to be related to body weight. getting sufficient amounts of vitamin C increases body fat oxidation during moderate-intensity exercise. - another critical function of vitamin C is synthesizing carnitine, which transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria that produce energy.

WHAT IS VITAMIN D?

- there are different forms of vitamin D, including ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). vitamin D is found in fish, eggs, and fortified milk. It's also made in the skin when exposed to sunlight. during periods of sunlight, vitamin D is stored in fat and then released when sunlight is not available. - your body can only absorb calcium, the primary component of bone, when vitamin D is present. Vitamin D also regulates many other cellular functions in your body. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuro-protective properties support immune health, muscle function and brain cell activity. - vitamin D might play an important role in regulating mood and decreasing the risk of depression, and some studies suggest there may be a link between vitamin D and obesity, though more research is needed to verify this.

WHAT IS VITAMIN E?

- vitamin E is a nutrient that's important to vision, reproduction, and the health of your blood, brain and skin. vitamin E deficiency can cause nerve pain (neuropathy). - foods rich in vitamin E include canola oil, olive oil, margarine, almonds and peanuts. You can also get vitamin E from meats, dairy, leafy greens and fortified cereals. - getting enough vitamin E may help prevent oxidative stress and cellular damage. oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between your body’s antioxidant defenses and the production and accumulation of compounds called reactive oxygen species (ROS). this can lead to cellular damage and increased disease risk.

WHAT IS VITAMIN K?

- vitamin K is actually a group of compounds, with the most important ones being vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. vitamin K1 is obtained from leafy greens and some other vegetables. vitamin K2 is a group of compounds largely obtained from meats, cheeses, and eggs and synthesized by bacteria. - vitamin K's key role is to help heal injuries through blood clotting and strengthen bones by making four proteins among the 13 that are needed for blood clotting (coagulation) and osteocalcin.

[vxm1tcxre]

Pvrging harm reduction masterpost (from someone who’s had severe bul1m14 for 3 years, and who wishes they’d gotten this advice)

I get asked a lot and see posts asking for “tips” around pvrging.

I absolutely do not condone it. It’s a horrendously dangerous, unpleasant, and addictive behavior, and often a slippery slope to full-swing bul1m14 (and trust me, that is not something you want, for the sake of your wallet and sanity).

However, I do acknowledge that that doesn’t get in the way of the urge to do it. It certainly didn’t for me. That’s not how 3ds work. Being told how dangerous and horrible something is often is just more enticing. I know people are going to try it regardless. And frankly, I’d much rather focus on tips to stay safe over just telling you “don’t do it” like a Christian parent preaching abstinence. Harm reduction is king, especially on a platform like 3dblr.

So, here is a list of things to help you stay safe.

1. I feel like I should reiterate this again- if you at all can, don’t start. It’s not the c4ls-be-gone magic spell it might seem to be. Starting is what ended my r3str1ct1v3 phase. I thought it’d just be a last resort for when I ate too much. Fast forward to now, it’s been 3 years since my first time and I consume a good 6k+ c4ls every single day, have g4ined a ton of w3ight, feel like shit all the time, have no control around food, am constantly broke, have done things that would make people gag, and have all the risk with no reward. Ultimately, you will not l0se w3ight with pvrging. It gets harder and less effective the longer you do it. While the “you can only get rid of 50%” you often hear is a myth, being bul1m1c destroys your control, and eating maintenance in addition to whatever c4ls you didn’t manage to pvrge will inevitably lead to w3ight gain over time. It simply isn’t worth it.

2. DO NOT USE FOREIGN OBJECTS. It is legitimately so dangerous. Massive choking hazard and generally terrible for your throat. If you can’t get a response with your fingers, don’t do it. I promise, getting rid of some chicken nuggets is not worth getting a plastic fork lodged down your throat and almost dying. (Yes, I am speaking from experience)

3. Some people are simply incapable of inducing v0m1t1ng. It’s more common than is talked about and is completely normal. Frankly, if you have urges to pvrge and find that you can’t do it, consider it a sign.

4. Do not brush your teeth directly after. This is because the bristles of your toothbrush will rub the acid into your enamel, increasing the chances of decay.

5. Baking soda is magic. Swish about a teaspoon with some water in your mouth to neutralize the acid. Swallowing some (significantly less- about 1/4 to 1/2 tsp) is also an easy remedy for acid reflux. Get checked and have your teeth cleaned at the dentist’s regularly- if damage starts occurring, you can catch and mitigate it early.

6. Maintain good dental health as much as you can. Continue to brush and floss regularly. Keep in mind, however, that you can’t avoid tooth decay forever. It’s inevitable with long-term pvrging.

7. One of the biggest risks is electrolyte deficiencies. You often hear of people dying from cardiac arrest. This is because thr0wing up depletes your potassium, which helps with muscle contraction. Your heart is a muscle. If it’s unable to contract, it will fail. After pvrging, replenish your electrolytes. Coconut water, Gatorade, pedialyte, anything that contains the nutrients you just got rid of.

8. Also remember to stay normally hydrated. Even just drinking water is better than nothing. pvrging dehydrates you.

9. DO NOT FLUSH. It’s one of the most dangerous games you can play.

10. Try and eat something safe after the fact, especially if you’re having symptoms of low blood sugar (shaking, dizziness, sweating, a rapid heartbeat). This can be easier said than done but it’s crucial to getting back to normal. Something easy on your stomach with some c4rbs is ideal- toast, rice cakes, crackers, etc.

11. Avoid hot showers or baths or exercising directly after. You will lose more water through sweating. Wash your hands and face- especially around your chin and mouth, pvrge-induced acne is a real thing- and rest for a while.

12. Warm drinks or cold foods like popsicles or ice cream are very soothing on the throat. Throat coat tea and hot chocolate are quite nice. The former may be best if your stomach isn’t feeling well.

13. You will bloat like crazy whenever you eat if you pvrge long term. It’s hell on your digestive tract in general. It’s one of my biggest struggles and pet peeves. Honestly, you can only really wait for it to go away. Remember that it will with time, and do something to distract yourself from it. Some things that in my experience have made it less severe are to eat at a reasonable pace, chew your food thoroughly, and sip drinks rather than chugging them.

14. L4x4t1v3s absolutely aren’t worth it. You don’t really get rid of anything and it’s a fast track to dependency and being horrifically constipated whenever you don’t use them. Stay away. If you must, opt for natural remedies like teas, fiber-rich foods, chia seeds, etc.

15. If you take medication, wait several hours before pvrging. It obviously won’t work if you just get rid of it.

Feel free to reblog this with any advice of your own. I hope this helps some of you; stay safe out there.

[letters-to-lgbt-kids]

My dear lgbt+ kids, 

Headaches can sometimes be a sign of serious health issues, but in most cases they’re caused by lifestyle factors such as stress, dehydration, not getting enough sleep, poor posture or physical exhaustion. 

The most common type of headaches are tension headaches (headaches that result from muscle tension in the upper body). 

Here are some ways to relieve a tension headache: 

Drink plenty of water or try an electrolyte-containing beverage. 

Cold/Hot therapy: You can buy an ice pack or create your own by placing ice cubes in a plastic bag (covered with a cloth to prevent ice burns). Alternatively,  you can buy a heat pack for warmth. Apply these to your forehead, cheeks, or the back of your neck for relief. A warm shower can work wonders too.

Dim the lights to ease the strain on your eyes during a tension headache. 

Take a few minutes to massage your forehead, neck, and temples. This can alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Some people find relief in eating some ginger or drinking ginger tea. 

Incorporate stress relief methods into your routine, such as progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises or meditation.

Ensure you don't skip meals, as irregular eating patterns can contribute to headaches. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is essential for your wellbeing. 

Consider supplementing magnesium, iron, or vitamin B if you're deficient. These nutrients can play a role in headache prevention.

Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Sleep is important for stress management and therefore reduces headaches. 

Go to a doctor if you frequently experience severe headaches to rule out any underlying conditions. (And of course seek immediate medical attention if you have a headache after a head injury.) 

With all my love, 

Your Tumblr Dad 

P.S: I’m not a medical professional and do not know your personal medical history - health information on this blog is for educational purposes only. 

[adhdanalogbrain]

PSA: If your executive dysfunction is significantly worse than normal despite your usual strategies and medication and you also have more fatigue, weird blood pressure, and weird muscle twitches, PLEASE get checked out for magnesium deficiency/increase your magnesium intake and see if that helps

Sending this here cause this is the only ADHD help blog I fw and my energy is VASTLY improved after boosting my magnesium because surprise! I was basically killing myself through bad diet. Eat your nutrients.

If you don't know your nutrients I recommend this bad boy: https://tools.myfooddata.com/nutrient-ranking-tool/magnesium/all/highest/household/common/no

Good advice!

[thebibliosphere]

Hey, Joy, if you've got spoons for it, I've got a medical mystery question.

I found out a few months ago that I had a significant B12 deficiency. I eat plenty of meat, so my doctor gave me 6 biweekly injections instead of oral supplements. She just checked my levels again and they didn't increase nearly as much as she expected (in fact, I'm still below the deficiency cutoff she's using), but I also tested negative for pernicious anemia. She didn't seem to know what to make of that.

I know you've had to dig into a lot of medical literature. Do you have any idea what could be going on or where I could find more information?

I’m in a similar situation in terms of not responding to treatment as anticipated.

I have to take 3-5x the daily recommended oral dose of methylcobalamin (a type of b12, I don’t absorb the other kinds including the kind in the injections.) just to stay on the cusp of deficiency because my body burns through it like crazy.

The best my doctors can surmise is that I might have a gene mutation that is affecting it, but getting a geneticist to look into it has been an exercise in futility.

My EDS diagnosis means the genetics dept just isn’t interested. They blame it on the EDS and while deficiency can be common in EDS, every EDS-knowledgeable doctor I’ve seen is shocked by my numbers.

MCAS also prevents the absorption of nutrients, so that might be another factor, but again, that indicates a probable genetic factor that’s being overlooked.

Unfortunately, that’s all very specific to me and not helpful to everyone else. Although maybe someone else in the notes can shine some light for us.

[indignantlemur]

Hello! Hope you're doing well. I was wondering if you had any headcanon's of the cultural incompatibilities between the Andorians and the Vulcans like the kas wan? Thank you.

Hello, hello! I'm going alright, and very happy to have my internet connection back!

Andorians and Vulcans have quite a few cultural incompatibilities, really. I'll list the most common points for you!

Meat:

Andorians are technically omnivores, but only just. They consume huge amounts of protein and fats in the form of meat, and only replicate meat about forty percent of the time. Everyone agrees that real, fresh meat just tastes better. Vulcans find this barbaric, to put it mildly. During their more active conflicts, Andorians in Vulcan prison camps were forced to subsist off of replicated, protein-heavy Vulcan fare - which Andorians, of course, did not digest particularly well, and struggled to draw nutrients from. The prisoners, unsurprisingly, developed profound nutrient deficiencies. Andorians considered this to be cruel and unusual punishment at best, and a war crime at worst.

Vulcan prisoners of war were likewise forced to consume actual meat, for lack of any other alternatives. While no one can say they were deprived of food, what the Andorians had on offer was not at all suited to the Vulcan way of life, or their physiology. Recovered citizens often required significant psychological and, in some cases, moderate medical intervention afterwards. It remains a common sticking point between the two factions.

Physical touch:

Andorians are constantly touching people. They're a highly social species with insectoid traits, and frequent contact on a daily basis is a part of healthy socialization. While their society has become heavily ritualized regarding interactions between different social ranks and between strangers to prevent conflict, friendly Andorians are very easy-going with physical contact even in professional environments.

The average Vulcan would rather have a fatal aneurysm than spend a day trapped in a room with friendly Andorians. Physical touch is highly regulated amongst Vulcans, who are touch-telepaths, and even bonded couples rarely interact physically in public.

(Andorians don't actually capitalize on this, despite what some might think. Contact of this nature is for friends and family only.)

Nudity taboos:

An extension of the physical touch incompatibility, Andorians also have no taboos centered around nudity and the physical form. Their concept of privacy is also largely theoretical, at least from a Human perspective. Communal bathing is common, as is sleeping in groups.

Vulcans, by comparison, have extreme taboos and social regulations regarding their bodies and their personal space. They do not bathe communally if it can be avoided. They do not share sleeping quarters unless bonded (and sometimes, only during specific times). They do not trespass on another's personal privacy if it can at all be helped.

Incense:

Vulcans are very fond of a particular kind of incense. Exact formulas for their incense vary by region, but all of them contain a plant-based ingredient that infallibly sends Andorians into violent sneezing fits. Lighting Vulcan incense around Andorians is considered incredibly rude.

This has yet to stop the Vulcans, who can be remarkably petty when they have a mind to be.

Music:

Andorians favour wildly expressive and emotive music, designed to provoke and release emotion. Andorian operas are known for being incredibly moving and cathartic, and it's not unusual for opera-goers to weep during a particularly fine performance.

Vulcans find these displays of overt emotion distasteful. The fundamental nature of music is mathematical and logical, and while the mind cannot always be inherently logical the brain preferentially seeks out patterns as an evolutionary trait. Therefore, it is logical that certain arrangements are considered pleasing by many. That is all.

Marriage & Bonding:

Vulcans pair-bond, and they can bond quite powerfully given their inherent psychic ability as well. They do not, however, go beyond pair-bonds; their instincts will not suffer anything that could be considered a rival for their mates. The fact that Andorians bond in couples and then go on to marry into quads is fundamentally incompatible with Vulcan instincts, and while Vulcans strive to overcome their violent natures some things still linger.

The fact that Andorian bonds are unbreakable, even against the efforts of an accomplished Vulcan mind-healer, was at first unfathomable to Vulcans. How could a species whose individuals bond to so many form such strong bonds as well? Surely, the number of bonds must weaken the strength of each individual bond!

Andorians, when asked, will coldly point out that the deliberate sabotage of a mating bond is an egregious crime, and initial Vulcan experiments regarding the matter are also considered war crimes.

The Vulcans, in response, find it sufficient to pull up images of the "chairs" that Andorians used in wartime (and out of it) to break Vulcan prisoners.

Neither side leaves the argument looking particularly good.

Hope this answers your question!

[numberonetacostan]

even more taco thoughts I'm sorry I'm insane. Taco's tastebuds are diluted as fuck and everything basically tastes the same to her. She does enjoy cake simply because its soft, but she doesn't particularly have a favorite type of cake, she just likes the soft ones because the rest tastes the same to her. I'd like to think she will bring it up when someone asks her like if she has a favorite food or something like that and she goes ''ehhh not really, everything just tastes the same to me so I don't really care what I eat.'' and then turns back to see everyone looking at her with the most concerned expression ever. I mainly think it happens due to depression + girlie just ate a lot of weird shit and fucked up her tastebuds. So you know not good combination.

HI KIARA!!!!^^ I AM SHOUTING BECUASE I WAS DOING SOME RESEARCH BECAUSE OF THIS ASK AND NOW I AM EXCITED!!!!! XD WELCOME BACK AND THANK YOU FOR SENDING IT IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!^^

I'm not sure whether you meant hypogeusia (diminished sense of taste) or ageusia (total loss of taste) but I prefer to give her hypogeusia I think!!!! She is definitely depressed and had very much had to make do with whatever she could get her hands on in the woods/from stealing, but maybe you'd also consider a vitamin B12 deficiency?? 👀👀👀 it's another common cause of hypogeusia and it's not something the body makes on its own!! You'd need to get it by eating certain foods or taking pills, neither of which Taco has!!!!

Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause (only listing the ones I'd apply to Taco here):

•feeling tired or weak

•not feeling hungry/feeling less hungry than usual

•weight loss

•numbness in hands or feet

•feeling depressed

•feeling irritable

So uh. Sorry Kiara this one got away from me. I have come out of this with a new Taco headcanon so uh congratulations!!!!!!! :D!!!!!!!! Thanks!!!!!!^^

Revolving around Taco mentioning that everything tastes the same to her? Yeah that would cause a lot of concern!!! It already becomes pretty clear to everyone that her health is. Bad. After she rejoins the group, and this would only cause more concern. As she is given proper nutrients and such and gets her B12 levels to healthy, she'd get more of her taste back!!!! Hoooooray!!!!^^

[homeofhousechickens]

It's 2024 and people think that medicated chicken feed has antibiotics in it. Guess what? It doesn't, it just has amprolium (Corid) which is most definitely not an antibiotic.

Amprolium/Corid is a thiamine analog and works to break the life cycle of coccidia by causing malnutrition via vitamin deficiency. This why if you're also supplementing your chickens with electrolytes it basically nullifies the medicated feed since the chicken is drinking more thiamine (also known as vitamin B) that feeds the coccidia. So if your feeding medicated feed to chicks don't give them vitamins in the water.

I see people sometimes feeding chickens sick with respiratory infections or other ailments medicated feed but the only benefit to feeding medicated feed in this instance is that chick starter is more nutrient dense then other feeds which can be helpful for a sick bird but it's not treating the respiratory infection.

It can also be problematic when fed to certain breeds that require more thiamine in their diet during the rearing process the most common being Leghorns and Silkies. It's not uncommon for medicated feed to contribute to wry neck in these breeds which can get immediately better when switched off medicated feed and giving these affected birds vitamin supplements.

[rin-and-jade]

Damn it, Back to Square One: A Post about Skill Regression

It's like how that one time you had an interest to practice a cool trick for impressing people, and you're fully committed until it was pulled off perfectly, only to be performed once before its forgotten for a good while.. Yet, when you thought of going back to that well-practiced trick, it barely replicated the results that was from the previous attempt.

How? You perfectly knew how to do it inside your mind, but your hands failed to perform otherwise. Which means being forgetful wasn't the culprit, but to how our brains store these learnt skills--or behaviors. This is an example of skill regression, let's learn more!

TLDR fast pass: AVAILABLE

What was that?!

That setback? - oh, not to shock you with it being a real thing, here's the general definition of it:

"A phenomenon which entails gradual or abrupt loss of previously acquired skills." - PubMed Central

Yikes, um, nevermind. That DOES sound like a shocking problem... but yes, to put it simply, this regression can be regular or abrupt depending on the circumstances that triggers it. Skill regression also can manifest as temporary or permanent loss of any skills, too.

By the way, everyone can experience this type of regression, though for those who are neurodivergent,, they actually risk skill regressing 5x more than a normal person would, double freaking out right now? Save your screams, i haven't said it is doom's day with no cure.

Then why,, why?

im not telling. Just kidding,,

Here's where thing's get complicated.. There's two common neurodivergence, and those two divergence have fully different reasons why a skill regression was triggered. Isn't this wonderful--you're going to read longer than you'd expect now. (Ha! But knowledge is power.) I'll attempt to keep it as concise though;

Those with ADHD, this is why you got setback:

Stress - it can impede how well you perform or think, causing a temporary regression. Tasks that are usually effortless now takes double the amount of effort to achieve the same result.

Unfamiliarity - You might've practiced singing in your own personal home, the unique atmosphere, and audience who resides in that abode feels like a default setting due to exposure and repetition. So, if you were to do it outside in public, or a stage, the sense of anxiety and zero preparation in a different setting causes your brain to simply.. short circuit. It's temporary though.

Executive Dysfunction - because of how it impairs many other processes such as planning, action, memory, and focus,, these impairments can severely impact how you apply the learnt skills to reality. This is a comorbid-related default reason for regression.

Those with Autism, this is why you got setback:

Overstimulation - sensory disruptions and overwhelm can cause an imbalance in cognitive function, it's like how a computer lags from the sheer amount of information and causing all necessary operations to a halt. This is temporary, upon retreating from stressor.

Unpredictability - routine and stability is where people with ASD function at peak, obstacles that got caught up in the way breaks this flow of mind, as if a train had derailed from it's tracks. Depending on if it is solvable or not, it can be temporary or permanent regression.

Inconsistency - Skills need to be practiced, and often require repetition to further ingrain it. Without it, you would have difficulty applying to different contexts or even worse, fail to create a solid neural pathway and decayed. It can vary from temporary or permanent regression.

Other conditions that cause skill regression:

Neurogenerative diseases such as Alzheimer or Parkinson

Brain damage

Psychological disorders such as depression, OCD, Schizophrenia

Nutrient deficiencies that impact brain function

Withdrawal side effects

Stress

The issue complicates even further when you have other conditions, and/or have ADHD and Autism at the same time. This causes higher chances of overlapping and potential stressors that triggers the regression.

How is this system related?

I promise this post is also related to systemhood, but the basics on this phenomenon still has to be taught so you and i are on the same page. This has been sufficient, so let's finally get to the point of this post!

Right, this is where the questions start flooding, "why do alters have different proficiency?" "why are some unaffected, yet others are susceptible?", and other kinds. Let me go straight to the point.

Alters retain different memories, and they don't get to choose what they remember. These memories can be explicit or implicit information:

Implicit - Where actions are unconsciously adapted and performed, needing no conscious awareness or effort. Automatic. E.g. riding a bike, writing, holding cutlery.

Explicit - Where actions require active recall and thinking in order to be performed. Manual. E.g. math multiplication, reading comprehension, speaking (needs vocabulary)

Skill regression can impact two main aspects such as:

Your social skills - how you pronounce, how to start speaking, or how you use the words, or stay engaged in a conversation

Your motor skills - how you do independent actions, how well is your rough and soft skills, or muscle memory

And sometimes, you can have both skills impacted

Which means.. what the part remembers, can also impact different kinds of regression it will be susceptible too. For those who have shared skills but cannot perform as good, or at all, compared to the proficient alter, this regression is natural due to the dissociative element.

Something feels wrong..

What was that? You just had a realization which unintentionally causes you to function worser than ever without the skills returning?

It seems like you learnt to do things when masking. It basically means when you are used to living in a tight little box, and finally got out of it,, it is more difficult to fit in there again which conveys the strain in upkeeping the skills you had learnt previously.

The purpose of masking is to function on a daily basis to avoid conflict or negative experiences,, it can be as simple as conforming to the norm of "eye contact when talking" or alternatively it is how you cope while being unaware of your condition (such as baring uncomfortable textures, thinking everyone feels that way)

Problem here is, because it feels wrong/unaddressed yet it keeps you going, it will take more energy the longer you upkeep these skills in a masked state as the core issue wasn't tackled. This will slowly bring you to a burnout. So when you realize that this isn't the norm, your mind just drops everything on the ground in relief as its silently detrimental to your health, no matter how convinced you it is helpful.

This is a permanent skill regression caused by any kinds of exhaustion.

Things won't go back to normal?!

Sadly... no. Good news is, you can always build a new framework!

Though, you will be immediately greeted with a problem: hypersensitivity.

After realizing and being aware of the situation, the accumulated stress, and any other factors that comes into play,, being overwhelmed would happen in a daily basis when left unaddressed, so make sure to minimize the sensory/emotional stressors and pay attention to any heightened senses. Also incorporate regulation tools, since if emotions were suppressed when masking, unmasking means releasing these pent-up feelings, making emotions more intense than usual.

Burnout is not normal exhaustion too, so refrain from overexerting yourself and implement lots and lots of rest.

From here on, it will be easier to re-learn everything from the start, and specifically in ways that accommodates your needs. It takes plenty of time in order to see results, if you need any help in this aspect, you are always free to reach out to me or search for any resources regarding this.

Another reminder for yourself, this type of skill regression also cause other symptoms such as trouble focusing, poor memory, and overall difficulty in doing regular tasks as it feels taxing.

Last notes

Okay my bad, you must've expected that alters are involved with skill regression due to CDD's--but apparently, it is closer to neurodivergent experiences that manifested in systemhood.

What are your thoughts on this? I was surprised myself, were you too? Let me know what's interesting in this post so far, and other questions you might have!

- j

--

TLDR

What is Skill Regression?

Skill regression is the loss of previously acquired skills, either temporarily or permanently.

More common in neurodivergent individuals (e.g., ADHD, autism).

Causes of Skill Regression:

ADHD:

Stress: Impairs performance.

Unfamiliarity: New settings cause anxiety.

Executive Dysfunction: Affects planning and memory.

Autism:

Overstimulation: Sensory overload disrupts function.

Unpredictability: Routine disruptions cause setbacks.

Inconsistency: Lack of practice leads to skill decay.

Other Conditions That Cause Skill Regression:

Neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)

Brain damage

Psychological disorders (depression, OCD, schizophrenia)

Nutrient deficiencies

Withdrawal side effects

Stress

Skill Regression in Systems:

Alters may have different skill levels due to varied memories and experiences.

Dissociative elements can naturally cause skill regression.

Addressing Skill Regression:

Build new frameworks tailored to your needs.

Minimize stressors and incorporate regulation tools.

Ensure plenty of rest to avoid burnout.

Skill regression is more correlated to neurodivergence which in return affects system experiences, rather than where being a system causes skill regression.

[eatclean-bewhole]

This post was inspired by a close friend I lost this week, who struggled with depression.

Depression is complex and influenced by many factors. Choosing the right foods is one way to help influence your brain’s chemistry. Research shows that these vitamins and minerals play a critical role in brain health and emotional well-being, and are often deficiencies associated with depression:

1. Vitamin D

Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” low levels of vitamin D are linked to mood disorders, including depression. Many people, especially those in colder climates or who spend little time outdoors, are deficient in this vital nutrient.

2. B Vitamins (Especially B6, B9, B12)

• B6 supports neurotransmitter production like serotonin and dopamine.

• B9 (Folate) is critical for mood regulation and often low in individuals with depression.

• B12 deficiency can cause fatigue, brain fog, and depressive symptoms, particularly in vegetarians or older adults.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

These healthy fats are essential for brain function and reducing inflammation. Low omega-3 levels are linked to depression, particularly in individuals who consume little fatty fish or plant-based omega-3 sources like flaxseeds or walnuts.

4. Magnesium

This calming mineral supports the nervous system and helps manage stress. Magnesium deficiency is surprisingly common and can contribute to anxiety, irritability, and depression.

5. Iron

Low iron levels, especially in women, can lead to fatigue, low energy, and mood disturbances. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and proper brain function.

Addressing potential deficiencies is a great first step. Depression can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Supporting yourself in this way, and reaching out for help is a powerful step toward healing. Support and hope are within your reach. 🤍

[femmefatalevibe]

Femme Fatale Guide: Tips For Mindful, Healthy Eating

Be mindful of the foods you keep at home: While I'm not a fan of restriction (especially of entire macronutrients), know yourself well enough to help yourself prevent binging on trigger foods that you start overeating when stressed, tired, etc. My rule of thumb is if I would be uncomfortable having 2 servings of something in a sitting, it doesn't belong in my fridge/freezer/pantry. Keep those treats for socializing or outside of the home.

Discover a selection of healthy meals, snacks, and staple items you love: Physical, nutritional, and emotional satisfaction are all essential to keep your cravings in check. Consider the 5 or so lunches/dinners you love and 1-3 breakfast options, at least 1-2 sweet and savory snacks (like fruit, popcorn, edamame, etc.) to create a simple rotation to keep you satisfied throughout the week. Experiment with different recipes/produce/spices/low sugar & low-fat condiments and seasonings to find what combinations taste the best to you.

Check-in with yourself before eating: Ensure that you're eating due to true hunger rather than feelings of boredom, stress, sadness, etc. If you have the urge to emotionally eat, try to get moving by shaking your arms, dancing around your room, taking a walk, etc. for at least 5-10 minutes before considering getting something to eat.

Enjoy mindful eating: Eat with as few distractions as possible. Take your time to enjoy the food. Take small bites, put your utensils down between bites, and chew slowly. Check in with yourself throughout the eating experience to reconnect with your hungry cues as you get through the plate or bowl of food. See if your hunger is decreasing and how full you feel throughout the experience. Make eating its own separate and enjoyable activity whenever possible.

Have indulgent teas, coffees, and fruit water on hand: Eat if you're truly hungry. But, for the times you're bored or stressed, having a vanilla or cinnamon tea, a cup of cold brew, or a lemon/fruit-infused water can satisfy your desire for some palette simulation

Don't get into a binge-restrict cycle: Allow yourself to eat when you're truly hungry, otherwise, you will overcompensate at a later date. A good litmus test to see if you're truly hungry is to reflect on whether multiple food options could satisfy your current desire for food. If only one food or unhealthy options sound desirable, you're probably experiencing a craving rather than true hunger.

Stay hydrated & get enough sleep: Drinking enough water and a full night's rest are essential to prevent energy crashes that increase your hunger and decrease your inhibitions to give into stress binges or choose unhealthy options. Always keep a glass of water by your side when working, watching TV, etc. to prevent dehydration or a general lack of fluids. Give yourself a loose sleep schedule with an hour or so grace period for your ideal bedtime and wake-up time for the workweek and the weekends.

Ensure you're meeting all of your vitamin requirements: Your body will naturally feel sluggish and more susceptible to cravings if you're not getting enough of certain nutrients on a regular basis. I always supplement with B12 and vitamin D as someone who's been vegan for over a decade. Make sure your diet incorporates nutrients like iron, magnesium, and zinc (common nutrient deficiencies).

[rachellaurengray]

Understanding Why You Binged on Low-Calorie "Safe" Foods

Binge eating is a common experience that can leave you feeling puzzled and frustrated, especially when it involves seemingly harmless low-calorie "safe" foods. These foods are often considered healthy or diet-friendly, but they can still become the subject of a binge-eating episode. To understand why this happens, it's important to look deeper into the physical, emotional, and behavioral factors that might contribute to such behavior. Here, we'll explore several potential reasons behind binge eating on low-calorie "safe" foods and provide strategies to manage and prevent future occurrences.

Hunger and Nutrient Deficiency

When your body is deprived of essential nutrients or you haven't eaten adequately throughout the day, it can lead to intense hunger. Low-calorie foods, being low in nutrients, might not satisfy this hunger, causing you to eat more in an attempt to feel full. This is especially true if your diet lacks protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which are critical for satiety.

Emotional Eating

Emotional eating involves consuming food as a way to deal with emotions rather than physical hunger. Stress, anxiety, loneliness, and boredom are common triggers. Low-calorie "safe" foods might serve as an option that seems less harmful, but the act of binging can be a way to distract yourself from uncomfortable feelings or fill an emotional void.

Diet Restrictions

Strict diets or food restrictions can lead to a cycle of deprivation and overindulgence. When you finally allow yourself to eat something you've been avoiding, you might overeat it as a response to the period of restriction. This can be particularly common if you’ve labeled these low-calorie foods as "safe," leading to overconsumption when you feel the urge to snack.

Palatability and Habit

Many low-calorie "safe" foods are designed to be easy to consume, but their light, often crunchy texture can make them easy to eat in large quantities without realizing it. Additionally, if you’re used to snacking on them out of habit, it can be easy to binge simply because they are readily available and perceived as low-risk.

Blood Sugar Levels

Simple carbohydrates found in many low-calorie "safe" foods can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar followed by quick drops. This fluctuation can trigger cravings for more carbs as your body seeks to stabilize blood sugar levels. Over time, this can create a cycle of craving and consuming more of these foods.

Strategies for Managing Binge Eating

1. Balanced Diet: Ensure your meals are well-balanced with adequate protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full longer and reduce cravings.

2. Mindful Eating: Practice mindful eating by paying full attention to the act of eating and recognizing hunger and fullness cues. Avoid distractions like TV or phones while eating.

3. Emotional Awareness: Identify emotional triggers for eating and develop alternative coping strategies, such as journaling, meditation, or talking to a friend.

4. Regular Meals: Maintain regular eating patterns to prevent extreme hunger. Skipping meals can often lead to overeating later.

5. Healthy Alternatives: Keep healthier snacks available that provide more nutrients and are more satisfying, such as nuts, yogurt, or fruits.

6. Professional Support: If binging is frequent or distressing, consider seeking help from a nutritionist, therapist, or counselor specializing in eating behaviors.

Addressing the underlying reasons for binging can lead to more sustainable eating habits and improve overall well-being.