#nutrient deficiencies in raw diets

[dogcancerfoundation]

Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods For Dogs

If you’re feeding a raw diet, you’re most likely feeding whole foods. However, there may be some foods that can act as supplements to fill in any nutritional gaps. While raw feeding is beneficial to your dog’s health, it’s important to maintain variety so your dog obtains all the nutrients they need. Common Nutrient Deficiencies in Raw Diets The nutrients that may be deficient include: ALA…

[systlin]

People that are absolutely convinced anyone can be vegan/vegetarian baffle me. I eat meat fairly regularly and I am already courting a B12 deficiency (for anyone who doesn't know the easiest source of B12 that the human body likes to absorb is red meat, you can get it from other sources primarily leafy greens I believe but your not getting as much because it's not as easy for your body to absorb) my levels aren't low enough to be considered clinically deficient but it's a near thing so my doctor has told me to take 2 B12 vitamins every day. I'm hoping this fixes my levels because if it doesn't that's a sign of a much more serious problem where my digestive system is biologically struggling to absorb B12

Gods, I feel you

When I got my Chron's diagnosis, the gastroenterologist and I talked about diet. High fiber is my enemy. I'm mostly OK now thanks to maintenance medication, but even now I can't have more than a single handful of nuts or popcorn without Suffering after. Raw vegetables are iffy; I can eat a couple of radishes or carrot sticks, but celery sets it off and raw broccoli or cauliflower is misery. I can have ONE small bowl of salad a day, which sucks because I LOVE salad. I have to be careful to limit servings of raw fruit, which also sucks because I adore cherries and pears and peaches.

Cooked vegetables are mostly fine, though I still have to keep the broccoli and brussels sprouts servings small. Cooked fruit is fine too. Beans are iffy. I can have some, but not a lot, which sucks because I love beans. Tofu is OK, but during my flare it gave me worse gas.

During a flare, my safe foods were cheese, meat, eggs, milk, fruit juice, vegetable juice, white bread, and cream of wheat. It was a fucking nightmare to try and get all the nutrients into me that I need. You will note that most of these are in fact animal products. I was under literal medical orders to keep the hell away from non-juiced fruits and vegetables.

Of course, a bunch of people came out of the woodwork to tell me that I could heal myself by cutting out all dairy and wheat and going vegan/raw vegan. People still do this regularly. I've deleted ten out of my inbox since yesterday.

If I tried to go vegan, it would be very, very rough on my traitor-ass large intestine and would probably send me into a flare. If I tried to go RAW vegan, it would probably mean surgery and might kill me.

[bumblebeerror]

I’m so so tired of diet and fitness culture that counts calories or calls foods empty or metabolism killers. I’m so tired.

A calorie is a measurement of energy produced by burning the item and measuring how much it raises the temperature of water.

This is not an accurate representation of how a body uses food. At all. Your body craves different foods at different times, uses nutrients like vitamin C or Iron. Listening to what you crave is a good way to tell what you might be deficient in, because your body knows what it needs and will try to convince your brain to give it.

Carbs and sugar are not empty or a “metabolism killer”. Carbs are quickly available energy for a body, something generally easier for it to take apart and use.

Fats aren’t evil. They’re complex molecules that help give consistent energy for several hours, and contain very vital structures that are used throughout the body.

Food is food. Humans are omnivores for a reason - because we need all kinds of foods which contain different minerals and vitamins and fat contents and carbs and proteins.

Food doesn’t have to taste bad to be worth those things to your body.

Your body doesn’t care that you’re eating guacamole and salsa with chips, it only cares that it’s getting important fats, sugars, and carbs, along with a slew of excellent nutrients from the fresh fruits in there, and a good dose of electrolytes and water as well.

Your food doesn’t have to be perfectly fresh or raw veggies with no sauce or 100% lean meat to be good for you. Calories effectively aren’t real. And if I could tear down diet culture all by myself I would happily make a bloody fucking massacre of the whole thing.

[flock-talk]

ive finally got my budgie fully diet transitioned to pellets, but she does still love her seed mix (this is only important because she will still eat it). but recently since she wasn't really diet transitioning to pellets we just switched her to a more healthy seed mix instead. and now i feel like the variety of seeds and nuts in that mix is good for her. but pellets are also better than seeds? and I was wondering should I keep her fully on pellets or would it be beneficial to keep her on half seed mix half pellets. OR have pellets as her main food and seeds separate as extra, like little snacks or something to go with her veggies. i feel like this is an individual bird type of thing and also depends on what seed mix im using and etc so i know you most likely can't give a definitive answer but i was wondering if you could give some insight

So this is the highly debated topic of parrot keeping at the moment

Pellets are only declared the healthiest option because they are fortified with vitamins and minerals that seeds alone would be lacking while also being low in fat and uniform in size/shape to limit selective consumption which decreases food waste and combats pickiness. Even with veggies in the diet getting the right nutritional balance can be quite difficult so pellets help bridge those nutritional gaps.

Mixing seed/ pellet can be controversial because by feeding seeds you're decreasing the pellet consumption which means the dose of nutrients they'd get from the pellets can no longer be guaranteed. (ex. if they get 2g of calcium from eating straight pellets and you now feed 50% seed they'd only be getting 1g of calcium instead). You also run the risk of the bird reverting off of pellets as parrots are notorious for their poor dietary choices even in the wild. They will consume whatever tastes best or they desire most in the moment, not the food that their body needs which can cause nutritional deficiencies to become even worse off! It can absolutely be done safely provided your bird actually eats both foods accurately and they're supplemented with their veggies or powdered supplements to compensate correctly.

Feeding a variety of low fat, nutrient-dense seeds mixed with veggies, sprouts, and potentially supplements is also a widely used dietary choice by folks who wish to go the more 'natural' route to feeding. This is typically referred to as the "raw fed parrot" diet. It can be great for birds who really struggle to eat pellets consistently, certain species who grass forage for seeds more than produce naturally, or individuals where pellets are too expensive/ unavailable in their region. The concern with this diet is nutritional accuracy, you really do need to consult with a vet, get bloodwork done, and work up a diet plan with them to ensure they're getting everything they need. Most end up needing a powdered supplement sprinkled over fruits/ veg to ensure they're consistently getting the nutrients they need. As previously stated birds are heavily selective consumers and won't eat what their body needs. This diet style has more risk for them over eating certain foods, scarfing down one seed type out of the mix, refusing certain fresh foods, and ultimately causing really askew nutritional values because of it. It can definitely be a good diet choice for some but it is a load of work to get it started!

You may want to give this study a read

https://href.li/?https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Donald-Brightsmith/publication/233534374_Nutritional_Levels_of_Diets_Fed_to_Captive_Amazon_Parrots_Does_Mixing_Seed_Produce_and_Pellets_Provide_a_Healthy_Diet/links/5d1389e3299bf1547c820a64/Nutritional-Levels-of-Diets-Fed-to-Captive-Amazon-Parrots-Does-Mixing-Seed-Produce-and-Pellets-Provide-a-Healthy-Diet.pdf?origin=publication_detail

It covers how the presentation of different foods alters the overall nutrition, selective consumption, and other things you may be interested in

[iobartach]

okay! this has been a LONG time coming, so brace yourselves for this... we're gonna talk about that injection scene from ats.v so comic purists especially please don't hunt down my ass for what i'm about to put out into the universe 😂

....so ..... let's talk about ... atsv's injection scene ;

what was intended by it? fuck knows, waiting for sony to send answers on a postcard. buuuut, for my take, let me be clear on the interpretations / meanings that i'm not gonna perpetuate ;

it's not rapture. i'm drawing a HARD STOP under that thought. noooo thankkk you.

it's not the source of his spider powers. we're staying true to our Cronenberg-inspired metamorphosis horrific-ness here 😎 even if more... recent reinventions of miguel shown in the comics would tell you he willingly opted to make himself half-spider, i ain't subscribing to it. (miguel's perspective on his transformation probs deserves its own hc post eventually! stay tuned!

so... if not this... what then? well...

i'm gonna posit that the injection(s) are a way for miguel to manage his 'condition'

for that, lemme do a little recap / reminder;

following his accident, miguel has experienced a multitude of changes. one of the most prominent changes is that he's become an obligate carnivore / hypercarnivore if you will. which means, meat is his new bff - he'll crave the calories, he'll eat it cooked or even raw, especially if it placates his tendency to gnaw when starving. and when he does eat, he tears and swallows chunks - not really a chewer any longer.

whiiiich introduces a new issue; anything plant based? loses its appeal to him. it's a slow progression, too. he'd start with reducing portions. taking a bite or two. leaving the rest. until there's next to no greenery left on the plate, when he knows he needs the nutrients they provide.

and ooh, it's actually gets a level worse than that : )

not only does he stop eating vegetables, fruits, *maybe* fungai? idk? but wellll his own mutated body might even stop producing the important stuff like vitamin c, and things of that ilk ! so ... what's a hybrid to do? how's he gonna make up the difference and get the nutrients he needs? ( especially when you consider... whilst he doesn't eat often, due to a combination of altered metabolism and slowed digestion rate, he could eat and consume calories in the magnitude that could make a damn saiyan blush --)

but, even so, it won't make up for the deficiencies 😔 so what's a spooky spider lad to do?

Come up with a solution, duh!

Yesss, baby, we're talking supplementation! operating in a similar manner to a diabetic needing insulin, or someone with B12 deficiency, for the all important food stuffs that miguel has perhaps tried, and tried again to consume, he's gonna turn to science for a lending hand, load up on what's either missing from his diet now, or that which his body simply can't absorb any longer

And, in addition to this, these shots are important in another sense 👀

they help miguel to manage his spider tendencies

since the way i've approached this with my earlier hcs is, well, tl;dr my mig's human / spider dna isn't a 50/50 split, it's gradually veering more towards spider as the years pass

this means that, it's a bit of a perfect storm brewing; lack of nutrients + behaviours & tendencies that he is likely chronicling by the day is ... a recipe for trouble! i can bet that miguel by himself can ... manage / hold himself together ... to a point, but, to paraphrase a friendo; have you ever met a hangry person? there's a limit to everything!

and we've seen miguel breach that limit already, during the miles chase in atsv. if ya had a bingo card for just about the worst everything happening in a single day? that card probably got filled UP during that chase! 😔 perhaps stress also played as factor there was well - the dude's carrying a LOT on his shoulders!

anyyyway! back on topic! let's expand the supplementation too - let's also throw in some sort of hormones? i know this is a whole science in itself, and ain't scientist 🥹 so i'll leave this a bit more broad, and say that they also play a part in stabilising miguel, ground him, so he won't go chasing a kid across the city... .ahem 😔

leading on from this, though, i wanna add some last things here. i know, i'm... meandering here , but lemme say;

take note of the intensity of miguel's eye colouration!

r e d - sorry, but you're shocked, buddy, best of luck surviving 💀

scarlet / bright red - feeling aggro, but holding enough of himself together to not act on his impulses

garnet - the default, feeling spidery, but also feeling human as close to a harmonious state as he can manage for the most part

dark brown - the goal!👀this is potentially a state that achieved after he injects himself. it floods him with a calm like nothing else he's ever felt. it's when he feels the most human again, a memory that's easily forgotten when you've got fangs and shoot webs from the back of your hands!!!

and it's with this last point, with the brown eyes, that i wanna bring this home with the little ritual miguel develops; after takin an injection, he'll make a point of brewing the strongest cup of black coffee that he can manage. a rare treat these days for him... especially given that caffeine does not agree with spiders. 💀

so yeah!!! thanks for reading through this ! 👋

[cutepethut]

When it comes to our furry friends, knowing what not to feed them is just as important as knowing what to feed them. You might be surprised to learn which things you would never give your dogs! Read on to learn what to avoid and why.

Top Foods to Avoid for Dogs

Raw Food 🍖

While raw food diets are trendy, many vets warn against them due to the risk of pathogenic bacteria like salmonella. Improper handling can also lead to contamination that affects both dogs and humans. Additionally, many raw diets are unbalanced, risking nutrient deficiencies.

High-Fat Foods (e.g., Bacon) 🥓

That crispy bacon might smell great, but it’s loaded with saturated fats. Vets cite it as a major trigger for pancreatitis, a painful and sometimes life-threatening condition.

Chocolate 🍫

A classic no-no, especially dark chocolate, which contains high levels of theobromine. This toxin can lead to vomiting, seizures, or even death in dogs.

Grapes and Raisins 🍇

Even small amounts can cause kidney failure in certain dogs. Since the exact toxin is unknown and effects vary, it’s best to avoid them entirely.

Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener) 🍬

Found in sugar-free gum, candies, and even some peanut butter, xylitol can cause severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), leading to seizures or even death.

Low-Quality Dry Kibble 🦴

Cheap kibble often contains harmful ingredients like BHA (a preservative linked to cancer), meat meal from unslaughtered animals, and artificial colors. Opt for high-quality, nutritionally balanced food instead.

Your dog's health starts with what’s in their bowl. Avoid these harmful foods to keep them wagging happily 🐕✨. P.S. Looking for more tips on pet care? FOLLOW ME for more 💕🐾

[devoted1989]

can my cat be vegan?

This is a very long article but it is comprehensive and will answer all your questions if you’re thinking of putting your cat on a vegan diet. I hope it will be helpful.

the obligate carnivore 

Not all carnivores are obligate carnivores.In fact, most aren’t. But all members of the cat family are. 

As obligate carnivores, they cannot digest plant-based foods efficiently. Eating meat is a biological necessity. 

 One of the defining characteristics of an obligate carnivore is a requirement for a high amount of protein in the diet. They are so dependent on protein that if their diet is lacking an adequate amount to supply their energy needs, they will break down their own body muscle and organs. 

The true carnivore will occasionally eat other foods, but the primary nutritive source must be meat for them to survive. This is because the protein in animal tissue has a complete amino acid profile. 

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Plant proteins do not contain all the amino acids critical for the health of obligate carnivores, and unlike humans who have the physiological ability to turn plant proteins into the missing pieces needed for a complete amino acid profile, cats don’thave that capacity. 

Cats need the amino acid taurine in their food to prevent blindness and certain kinds of heart disease. Cats cannot produce taurine in their own bodies; rather, they must eat foods containing taurine to obtain it. 

Taurine is supplied almost exclusively by meat and seafood and little to none from vegetables. 

Cats require approximately 200-300mg of taurine per meal, which is easily supplied by a diet that is more than half raw meat.  

 

Ornithine, another amino acid, is manufactured in the body and is necessary because it binds the ammonia produced from the breakdown of protein. Most animals manufacture the amino acid ornithine through various processes, some of which require arginine.  

In cats, the only method of producing ornithine is to convert it from arginine. Arginine helps remove by-products of the broken-down protein in their diet. arginine is only found in low amounts in plant-based diets.  

An arginine deficiency will lead to drooling, lethargy and convulsions due to the toxicity built up from the protein – and even death. 

Cats also lack the enzyme which can convert beta-carotene to retinol, the active form of Vitamin A. Therefore, they require a pre-formed Vitamin A, which is present only in foods of animal origin, and is usually included in cat foods as retinyl palmitate or acetate. Deficiencies of Vitamin A are rare, but signs include night blindness, retarded growth, and poor-quality skin and coat. 

Arachidonic acid is one of the essential fatty acids. Cats cannot manufacture arachidonic acid from linoleic acid or gamma-linolenic acid, so it must be supplemented in their food. Arachidonic acid is necessary to produce an inflammatory response. It also helps to regulate skin growth, is necessary for proper blood clotting, and is necessary for the reproductive and gastrointestinal systems to function properly. Arachidonic acid is found in animal fats as well as peanut oil.  

Cats on a vegan diet can develop abnormally alkaline (high pH) urine due to the more alkaline pH of plant based proteins in comparison to the acidic pH of meat-based foods which cats have evolved to eat. 

When the urine pH becomes too alkaline, there is an increased risk of formation of bladder crystals and/or stones. 

Such stones can create irritation and infection of the urinary tract and require veterinary treatment. In male cats the stones can cause an obstruction of the urethra, so the cat cannot urinate. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care. 

 

the cat’s biological make-up 

The feline digestive tract is short and is unable to process the nutrients contained in plant matter. It also causes them to need a highly digestible diet. Not only is the cat’s diet necessarily full of highly digestible proteins and fat, the proteins and fat can be very quickly digested as opposed to plant matter, which is slowly digested.  

Cats have scissor-like teeth and generally, strong jaws made for grasping and tearing up their prey. Their jaws do not allow motions for actual chewing or masticating; rather, they are made to cut their prey and eat them quickly. They do not chew their prey because they can mostly digest them in their stomachs. Their tongues are raspy because they use them to scrape the meat from the bones. 

Domestic cats did not evolve much further beyond their ancestral need to eat an all-meat diet because they thrived on this particular diet. They were physically and powerfully designed to eat primarily meat. 

 

the risks of commercial pet food 

However, questions must be asked about the origins of the commercial meat-based foods we are feeding our pets. 

The domestication of the house cat together with the growth of the commercial pet food industry, has changed the food we feed our cats, especially in the past 50 years or so. In the quest to profit from slaughterhouse waste products, owners developed meat by-products, digests, and meals.  

Over time other non-animal products were blended as filler to help make the pet foods even more profitable. It has only been in the past 20 years or so that commercial pet food manufacturers have started looking at pet nutrition seriously. However, much commercial pet food is made up of meat products not fit for human consumption simply because it makes financial sense. 

Even if we are not going to cross over to a vegan diet for our feline friends, we must make sure that we are not feeding them the “excesses” of factory farming. Apart from the obvious desire to feed our cats a high - quality food, it is worth spending more on a scientifically based diet that may lead to a long and healthy life. 

 

attention to possible health issues 

Is it possible to raise your cat vegan? Only if proper attention is given to providing a food that is nutritionally balanced and complete. Supplementation of taurine and arginine is absolutely essential. Cats also requireconsiderable amounts of Vitamin A. 

 In the case of commercial vegan cat foods, a urinary pH level of 6.5 is should be targeted. 

Cats on a vegan diet can develop abnormally alkaline (high pH) urine due to the more alkaline pH of plant based proteins in comparison to the acidic pH of meat-based foods which cats have evolved to eat. When the urine pH becomes too alkaline, there is an increased risk of formation of struvite (also known as magnesium ammonium phosphate) bladder crystals and/or stones.  

 

advice from vegancats.com 

“Unless you are very committed to following the advice outlined on our site by feeding your cat a properly balanced diet as per the information below, we recommend that you mitigate the risk of urinary tract problems by feeding males cats a 25-75% vegan diet and females a 50-100% vegan diet. Of course, many cats (both male and female) will thrive on a simple vegan diet and never have any complications from urinary tract infections or crystal formations, but you need to be prepared to adjust the diet accordingly for cats who may be prone to such issues”. 

We do not believe in making companion animals suffer through recurring health complications simply because we’d like to feed them an exclusively vegan diet; rather, we believe that people should do the best they can to find a balance that keeps their companions healthy while reducing dependency on meat products to the greatest extent.” 

Whatever you decide – it is, of course, your decision - it is advisable to research the pros and cons and to discuss your options with your vet. It may turn out to be healthier for your cat to not eat the way you do. In the long run, it is best to give your feline companion a long happy life than to make him/her conform to your choices. 

Jennifer Larsen, DVM, PhD, veterinary nutritionist and assistant professor of clinical nutrition at the University of California, Davis Veterinary School says the following guidelines should be followed if you are considering a vegan diet for your cat: 

 

· Only consider or feed commercial diets that have gone through feeding trials and meets the requirements for AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) compliance. 

· Consult with a veterinary nutritionist who can analyse your commercial or homemade vegetarian pet diet and make recommendations for additional health safeguards. 

· Schedule more frequent wellness exams, including blood work, with your family veterinarian - at least twice a year, even for young pets eating vegetarian diets. 

 

what the experts say 

Pet care professionals who warn against vegetarian diets for cats empathize with pet owners’ concerns that lead to these decisions. Believing its biologically or physiologically ok to switch your cat to one of these diets is to deny all the science proving otherwise. 

Below you will find some of the leading veterinarians in the world stating their opinion on a vegan diet for your cat: 

Lew Olson, PhD, author of Raw and Natural Nutrition for Dogs, makes this analogy: “Trying to feed a cat a vegan diet would be like me feeding my horses meat. You’re taking a whole species of animal and trying to force it to eat something that it isn’t designed to handle. 

“People do this to make themselves happy,” says Olson, who worked in psychotherapy before changing careers in the early 1990s. “It’s not about the animal. When people tell me they want to feed a vegan diet, I say, ‘Get a hamster, get a rabbit.’” 

 “For cats, it’s really inappropriate. It goes against their physiology and isn’t something I would recommend at all, “says Cailin Heinze, VMD, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and assistant professor of nutrition at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. 

 Vitamins A and D: Dogs and cats cannot make vitamin D in their skin, so it needs to be in their diet. And the vitamin D needs to be D3, which comes from animal sources, not D2, which comes from plant-based sources. “People and dogs can use D2 to some extent, but cats really need D3,” Heinze says. 

 

the risks of feeding your pet a vegetarian or vegan diet  

· Inadequate total protein intake (less than the 25 grams per 1,000 calories recommended). 

· Imbalance of the certain amino acids, such as taurine and L-carnitine (dogs and cats) or essential fatty acids arachidonic acid (cats only), in particular. 

· Deficiency in vitamins and minerals (such as B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, and iron) that are obtained ideally, or only, through meat or other animal products. 

· If allowed to continue long enough, these dietary problems can lead to serious and sometimes irreversible medical conditions. The one veterinarians mention most often is taurine-related dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart with weak contractions and poor pumping ability). Low taurine can also lead to reproductive failures, growth failures, and eye problems. 

· For the sake of your cat’s health, wellness and longevity do not make the mistake of putting them through this slow death. The chances of you seeing the sign of their immune system and organs shutting down before it’s too late is very slim. 

 Veterinarian Marla McGeorge, a cat specialist at Portland, Oregon’s Best Friends Veterinary Medical Centre, argues that the problem with forcing your cat to be vegetarian or vegan is that such diets fail toprovide the amino acids needed for proper feline health and are too high in carbohydrates that felines have not evolved to be able to process. As to those powder-based supplements intended to bridge the nutritional gap, McGeorge says that such formulations may not be as easily absorbed by cats’ bodies as the real thing. 

 

With thanks to Veg Family, Feline Nutrition, catsanswers.com, cattime.com, veganhealth.org, Huffington Post, Well - Minded Pets, PetNutritionSystems & vegancats.com 

 

[mouseymousey]

Food Rant??

Imma be mad if y'all are being tricked by food companies so here....

Topics covered: instant coffee, "raw milk", double hydration / gatorade, and nitrate free meats

If you are stuck depending on instant coffee, you can get a Vietnamese Metal Coffee Filter to make coffee with hot water and coffee grounds. It's a great alternative if you only have hot water or don't have a coffee machine or stovetop. They range at about 7ish American dollars for a cheap one. Robusta beans are a form of coffee bean that is "cheaper" than other coffee beans and are often used in instant coffee, an already cheap product. The global prices for coffee beans can be pretty low compared to the labor of them, so being able to buy from a trusted company is really important. If you wanted to try a different coffee from a different brand, hopefully now you can. That or doing something like switching to tea or a less labor-intensive product can help farmers a lot. :D

Read More (3): https://stories.publiceye.ch/nestle-coffee/ (public eye), https://www.nestle.com/ask-nestle/human-rights/answers/paying-coffee-farmers-mexico-fair-prices (nestle directly), https://www.business-humanrights.org/en/latest-news/mexico-coffee-farmers-accuse-nestlé-of-a-ruthless-purchasing-policy-they-cant-afford-basic-needs-response-from-nestlé/ (Business + Human Rights Center)

This one is more influencers.... :/

A fortified food is a food where an important nutrient has been added, usually to prevent disease or malnourishment. For instance, many milks are fortified with Vitamin D. Vitamin D does not occur naturally in milk, BUT it is super important for the absorption of calcium. One of the main ways most people get calcium is through milk products, and Vitamin D deficiency is REALLY REALLLLLLY common. Decades ago, so was calcium deficiency which hurt a lot of people's health. To prevent that calcium in milk from not being absorbed, Vitamin D is added (usually by government regulation in a lot of places but it's also super common otherwise).

Plus, a lack of Vitamin D has other health problems associated with it like depression and cancer.

I hate when people say "raw milk" is healthier for you because it's "unprocessed". I'm so sad about it. A "process" is literally anything that people do to the ingredients of a food before selling it. "Unprocessed" means an unfinished product. Unprocessed foods aren't always dangerous or anything, but milk is kind of the exception. Yes, the chance of "raw milk" itself hurting you is pretty low, but you're avoiding all the things that make milk so healthy. People put so much effort into making you that processed milk. :'(

Unfortunately, "Nutritionist" isn't a designated term for a healthcare professional. Someone is often just trying to sell you a brand or lifestyle.

Read More (2): (both from NIH) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532266/ (VD Deficiency), https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6116165/ (About Fortified Milk)

Gatorade, Double Hydration, and other hydration drinks rely on Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT). ORT is a rehydration technique involving salt, sugar, and water which all need to be absorbed together. The solution can often be made at home.

Recipe: 6 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and one liter of water (it can vary from place to place because different areas have different intakes of salt and sugar in their diets but it's mostly the same)

It won't have the same flavor though. It's just important to know the basic science behind those drinks and that they're easy to make at home, so you can if you need.

Read More (2): (both from NIH) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9464461/ (basics), https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3043760/ (current advances)

Here's a bonus article about meat labeled "nitrate free" from the American Institute for Cancer Research: https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/healthtalk-will-hot-dogs-and-bacon-preserved-with-celery-powder-still-increase-my-cancer-risk/

...they have the same health risks and they're LITERALLY not nitrate free because *cELerY sAlt

*celery salt

[lemonsnouturnabout]

homestuck trolls ranked from least to most malnourished

feferi: shes eating like instagram juices and fancy salads and just slurping krill out of the sea chomping directly down on some fish ripping and tearing shes got all her nutrients

nepeta: yes shes just eating grass and raw meat but like thats all she needs shes thriving #zerocarb shes got a cats digestive system so she would puke if she ate troll broccoli

terezi: eating mushrooms and bugs off the forest floor dragon mom voice order the centipede fries you will need the energy in the coming days again a weird diet but shes got her nutrients! would be easily tricked into consuming broccoli because it looks like little trees the chalk is there to absorb the poisons from the bugs and mushrooms

kanaya: she probably has a garden and eats fairly well but shes iron deficient and not getting enough blood in her diet the struggles of not realizing you are a vampire...

equius: only drinks milk but is not getting enough troll apples or troll oats for a proper horse diet veterinarians would be appalled

karkat: crabdad provides all the microwaved meals a child could need and pretends hes above disgusting gamer fuel but enjoys the odd troll dorito troll mountain dew combination

aradia: sometimes she eats roots and berries on her little roleplay adventures sometimes she eats gamer meal packs so points for roots and berries this is kind of a race to the bottom planet of people who eat poorly

eridan: pretends he likes fancy food like caviar or whatever but actually only wants to eat sea creature shaped chicken nuggets might eat a salad once in a while to impress feferi but cries about it later

tavros: one cannot live on fiduspawn shaped macaroni and cheese and tinkerbull fruit snacks forever but he will try

sollux: lives entirely off brightly colored energy drinks nutritional packets and doritos a true gamer

vriska: has invented the “vriska special” instant ramen and blue monster served in a magic 8 ball do not try this at home she has holes in her bones

gamzee: goop and soda do not make a balanced diet :(

[lyfebanana]

Top 10 Foods Rich In Iodine

Iodine is an essential mineral that is vital for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. This gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. The suggested daily amount of iodine intake, also known as the recommended daily intake (RDI), is 150 micrograms per day for the majority of adults. Nevertheless, for women who are expecting or breastfeeding, the necessary amount is greater. While iodine deficiency is rare in many developed countries due to the widespread use of iodized salt, it still affects millions of people worldwide. The deficiency of iodine can lead to thyroid problems, such as goiter, hypothyroidism, and cretinism. Therefore, it is important to consume foods that are rich in iodine to maintain optimal thyroid function.

Here are the top 10 foods rich in iodine.

1. Seaweed Seaweed is a type of marine algae that is incredibly rich in iodine. In fact, seaweed is one of the most concentrated natural sources of iodine available. It's important to note that not all types of seaweed contain high levels of iodine, so it's best to do some research before adding it to your meals. Some popular varieties include kelp, nori, wakame, and dulse. Seaweed can be enjoyed in salads, soups, sushi rolls, or even as a seasoning on top of roasted vegetables.

2. Shrimp Shrimp is an excellent source of iodine, providing approximately 35 micrograms of iodine in a 3-ounce serving. For optimal iodine intake, it is recommended to choose fresh or frozen shrimp over canned varieties, as they typically contain higher levels of iodine. In addition to iodine, shrimp is also packed with other essential nutrients such as protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B12.

3. Oysters Oysters, a type of shellfish, are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in essential nutrients, particularly iodine. Consuming only six medium-sized oysters can provide you with more than double the recommended daily intake of iodine. Oysters are also rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, oysters are low in calories, making them a great food choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.

4. Scallops Scallops are a type of shellfish that are known for their sweet and delicate flavor. They are also a great source of iodine. A 3-ounce serving of scallops contains approximately 35 micrograms of iodine, which is more than 20% of the recommended daily intake. Moreover, They're also a great source of protein and low in fat. You can enjoy them grilled, sautéed, or even raw in sushi.

5. Tuna Tuna is an exceptional source of iodine, providing a wealth of health benefits. A 3-ounce serving of canned tuna contains approximately 17 micrograms of iodine, which is about 11% of the recommended daily intake. Additionally, tuna is also a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that are important for overall health. You can enjoy tuna in a salad, sandwich, or even as sushi.

6. Cod Cod is a popular white fish that is also rich in iodine. A 3-ounce serving of cod contains approximately 99 micrograms of iodine, which is more than 65% of the recommended daily intake. Moreover, it also provides other important nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium.

7. Squid Squid is an excellent source of iodine. Just 3 ounces of cooked squid contain approximately 720 micrograms of iodine, which is more than four times the recommended daily intake. Squid is also rich in other nutrients like vitamins B12 and D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. You can enjoy squid in various ways such as grilled, stir-fried, or even deep-fried as calamari rings.

8. Crab Crab is another seafood that is high in iodine. A 3-ounce serving of crab contains about 90 micrograms of iodine, which is nearly 60% of the recommended daily intake. Additionally, crab is a low-fat and high-protein food that provides several other important nutrients, like vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Not only does it taste great on its own, but it can be added to a variety of dishes like salads or soups.

9. Eggs Eggs are a great source of iodine, with one large egg containing approximately 24 micrograms of iodine, which is about 16% of the daily recommended intake, making them a great choice whether you're enjoying them as part of a breakfast spread or adding them to salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries.

10. Dairy Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent sources of iodine. This is because cows are typically fed iodine-rich feed, and their milk contains high levels of this nutrient. Just one cup of milk can provide up to 56 micrograms of iodine, making it one of the easiest ways to meet your daily needs. Other dairy products like cheese and yogurt also contain significant amounts of iodine. However, remember to choose low-fat options to avoid excess saturated fat consumption. In addition, cheese and yogurt are fermented, which can increase the bioavailability of iodine. Dairy products are not only a great source of iodine but also provide other important nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin D. However, people who are lactose intolerant or have milk allergies should look for other sources of iodine.

[female-malice]

Ready for another example of the UN being a political organization and not a scientific one? Here's a rundown from Environmental Studies professor Matthew Hayek:

Part 2 of the blitz on “healthy meat”. Did you hear the UN now says meat is “crucial” and offers better nutrition than plant foods? Again, they come from a report with industry meddling, self-citing, deceptive and contradictory press releases and takeaways

The report is in four parts the first of which is a review of evidence of nutritional value of animal foods, based on more than 500 peer-reviewed sources. Sounds pretty fair. But this was a “narrative review”. Not a systemic one. Which means that they’re not reviewing all of the evidence, and aren’t using any external guidelines. The cards can fall in any direction because they’re not wedded to a particular protocol. 

From the jump, they key messages starts with a baseless talking point that meat’s protein is “high quality”. This isn’t true.

It’s derived from DIAAS, which is a metric that assumes meat proteins are higher than plant proteins. We know plant proteins like beans need to be cooked (to break down anti-nutrients) and combined (e.g. rice & beans). But DIAAS ranks raw, uncombined ingredients. The “high quality protein” myth talking point flies in the face of peer-reviewed research & reviews like @GardnerPhD that show plant proteins are absorbable, complete, and sustainable.

This is the danger of using a “narrative review”. It’s the lowest, most subjective form you can do, because it’s not reproducible, transparent, or complete. It can reproduce any biases that the authors harbor. They even say it!

Despite the subjective methods, and the pro-animal slant of the reviewers and funders, many of the findings and key messages are quite tame and even at odds with the headlines. Oh look, their own *subjective* review of others’ *rigorous systemic* reviews found mixed results of animal food benefits to kids. Hardly the same as the headlines! They imply that everyone needs to eat animals, especially pregnant women and kids, or risk deficiencies and disorders.

A bulk of the *new* analysis here, which we could consider systemic, just looked at gaps in countries diet guidelines. They found that they’re not particularly specific, and they leave out sustainability recommendations. 

And yet the final conclusion was that all countries should provide guidance on animal foods. Why? We’ve already established that their benefits are context-specific, some confer risks, and many have huge environmental impacts that guidelines don’t account for.

Gee, I wonder why the authors could be motivated to pressure countries to include animal foods in their guidelines…

These groups have major meat and dairy, feed, and animal pharma conglomerates as their contributors. They are not advocacy NGOs, they are mouthpiece trade groups for the most powerful donors in the global animal agriculture trade.

Even more worrying, the document implies that representatives of industry groups served as funders and *reviewers*. That level of industry meddling is a huge and unprecedented conflict. And would be reprehensible for other industries with high-emitting products. There should also be little wonder why the press and key messages don’t distinguish between low-income countries, whose diets are lacking in *many* food groups, with high income, where most people (from most groups and life stages) consume more than enough protein. Industry would benefit from meat consumption being higher, regardless of the risks and contexts. Those biases made their way all through the key messages and headlines of this report.

The @UNFAO needs to deeply reconsider its criteria for commissioning reports and media. This level of financial conflicts, the authoritative and deeply misleading headlines, subjective methods, and the lack of skeptical and independent review are all serious concerns.

[leva1]

Risks of a raw vegan diet

Knowing the Hazards Associated with a Raw Vegan Diet

In order to enhance health and wellbeing, the raw vegan diet has grown in popularity recently. This diet calls for abstaining from all animal products, such as dairy, eggs, and honey, and only eating raw, plant-based meals. There are hazards involved with this diet, despite the fact that it may have certain health advantages. This post will go over some of the possible drawbacks of a raw vegan diet and what you should know before giving it a try.

deficiencies in nutrients The possibility of nutrient inadequacies is one of the main hazards connected with a raw vegan diet. It can be challenging to obtain adequate amounts of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, calcium, and iron, without consuming animal products. The raw vegan diet might also be deficient in protein, which is necessary for preserving muscle mass and sustaining healthy bodily functions.

digestion problems Digestion problems are another another danger of a raw vegan diet. Raw meals can be challenging for the body to process, especially for people who already have digestive problems. Bloating, gas, and abdominal pain, as well as diarrhea and other digestive issues, can all result from consuming too many raw foods.

Concerns about Food Safety Consuming raw foods raises your risk of contracting a foodborne illness since they can contain dangerous bacteria and parasites. Eating uncooked food increases your chance of contracting foodborne illnesses like salmonella and E. coli, even though boiling can eradicate these organisms.

Achieving Caloric Requirements May Be Challenging It can be challenging to achieve your daily calorie requirements on a raw vegan diet because raw foods typically have lower caloric contents than cooked meals. In particular, if you are not cautious to eat enough high-calorie items like nuts and seeds, this can result in weight loss and malnutrition.

[so-much-for-subtlety]

recent industrial processes to make bread are also radically different from the bread that people ate for thousands of years and are not even comparable products!

bread you buy at the supermarket uses the chorleywood process which was invented in the 1960s and can take raw ingredients to a baked loaf in just 2 hours. they are loaded with preservatives, dough conditioners, emulsifiers, and enzymes - people may have sensitivity to any of these, but also means that the yeast has very little time to do it's job of breaking down the parts of gluten which people can have a sensitivity to.

traditionally breads were made using a levian or laomian (literally "old dough" in chinese) use a symbiotic mixture of yeast and bacteria. in these processes the dough is fermented for long periods (I sometimes ferment my dough for as long as 24 hours) which gives time for the gluten to be broken down, and additionally the bacterial is beneficial to our natural gut biome.

a lot of people who have IBS or non-celiac gluten intolerance can eat these fermented breads (like sourdough) without causing issues.

shen qu is a chinese medicine is dried form of laomian with herbs added and people have reported that it also helps with digestion of grain products.

it's not a bad thing, but modern bread is also often fortified with nutrients or vitamins (iron, calcium, folic acid) partially because some of this is lost when refining white flour, but also because with our modern diet the general population often has deficiencies in these areas, but worth noting since if you have a typical modern diet and cut back on eating commercial bread it might be good to take a general purpose multivitamin.

‘bread is bad for you’ ‘rice is bad for you’ sorry im not subscribing to the idea that staple grains that have been integral to cultures for centuries are evil. i love you carbs

[newstartulife]

Hashimoto’s Diet: Key Foods, Tips, and Supplement Guide

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland, can significantly impact one’s health and well-being. Managing this condition involves more than just medication; your diet plays a crucial role in supporting thyroid function, reducing inflammation, and improving overall health. In this guide, we explore the key foods, essential tips, and supplements that can help optimize a Hashimoto’s-friendly diet.

Understanding Hashimoto’s and the Role of Diet

Hashimoto’s occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, hair thinning, and cold sensitivity. While medication like levothyroxine helps regulate hormone levels, diet adjustments can address inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and gut health—all critical factors in Hashimoto’s management.

Key Foods to Include in a Hashimoto’s Diet

Leafy Greens Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune function and combat oxidative stress. They are also low in calories, making them ideal for weight management.

Fatty Fish Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3s can help reduce inflammation associated with Hashimoto’s and improve overall heart health.

Cruciferous Vegetables (Cooked) Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain beneficial compounds that support detoxification. While raw versions can interfere with iodine absorption, cooking these vegetables minimizes their goitrogenic effects.

Gluten-Free Whole Grains Quinoa, buckwheat, and brown rice provide essential fiber for gut health. Since Hashimoto’s is often associated with gluten sensitivity, opting for gluten-free grains can reduce digestive discomfort and inflammation.

Berries Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce inflammation. Their natural sweetness also satisfies sugar cravings without spiking blood sugar levels.

Nuts and Seeds Walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in selenium, zinc, and healthy fats. These nutrients are vital for thyroid hormone production and immune support.

Lean Protein Chicken, turkey, and tofu provide essential amino acids required for tissue repair and hormone production. Protein also helps maintain energy levels and supports muscle health.

Seaweed (In Moderation) Nori, kelp, and wakame are natural sources of iodine, a mineral essential for thyroid function. However, excessive iodine can worsen Hashimoto’s, so moderate consumption is key.

Fermented Foods Kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt with live cultures promote gut health by balancing the microbiome. A healthy gut is crucial for regulating immune responses and reducing inflammation.

Herbs and Spices Turmeric, ginger, and garlic have powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. These can be incorporated into meals to enhance flavor and health benefits.

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can exacerbate inflammation or interfere with thyroid function. Here’s what to limit or avoid:

Gluten: Commonly triggers inflammation in people with Hashimoto’s.

Dairy: Can cause digestive issues or inflammation in sensitive individuals.

Soy: May interfere with thyroid hormone absorption.

Processed Foods: High in unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives.

Excessive Sugar: Contributes to blood sugar imbalances and inflammation.

Practical Diet Tips for Hashimoto’s

Prioritize Whole Foods Focus on unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods to support overall health and minimize inflammation.

Experiment with Elimination Diets Identify potential food sensitivities, such as gluten or dairy, by temporarily removing them from your diet and monitoring symptoms.

Balance Macronutrients Ensure each meal includes a mix of healthy fats, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates to stabilize blood sugar and energy levels.

Hydrate Adequately Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support digestion and cellular health.

Plan Meals Ahead Prepare meals in advance to ensure you stick to a Hashimoto’s-friendly diet, even on busy days.

Supplements to Consider

While a well-rounded diet is essential, certain supplements can address nutrient deficiencies common in Hashimoto’s patients. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Selenium Supports thyroid hormone production and reduces thyroid antibodies.

Vitamin D Regulates the immune system and is often deficient in those with autoimmune diseases.

Zinc Essential for thyroid hormone metabolism and immune support.

Magnesium Helps alleviate fatigue and supports muscle function.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Reduces inflammation and supports cardiovascular health.

Probiotics Enhances gut health and helps regulate immune responses.

To read more… Hashimoto’s Diet: Key Foods, Tips, and Supplement Guide

[meditating-dog-lover]

Gut health

Things to continue:

Continue anti-inflammatory low glycemic diet

Continue to consume polyphenols

Continue to consume enough fiber

Continue to drink enough water

Continue with the liquid gut ION supplement

Think about if you want to continue with the enzyme supplement

Continue to get enough physical activity

Continue to get enough good sleep

Continue to avoid alcohol

Continue to take antibiotics on a need-to basis (antibiotic consumption can increase c. difficile levels)

Get tested annually

Based on my results, it can help to:

Consume more prebiotics in my diet (this is a bit tricky)

Eat the rainbow (I already do except yellow foods).

Season food with anti-microbial spices and herbs like garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cinnamon as well but I already consume it with my overnight oats. I have elevated c difficile and Campylobacter which can be killed by garlic and oregano.

Clean my house thoroughly.

Cook raw meat thoroughly.

Consume more pectin

Consume more beta glucan (shitake mushrooms).

1 and 6 will be more challenging as I'm not a big fan of these foods.

Interesting enough I don't have any histamine-producing species nor do I have malessezia. So I don't think my seb and atopic dermatitis are caused by gut issues (allergies, stress, high estrogen, genetics, nutrient deficiencies).

[drsangeetagowswami]

The Role of Nutrition in Preventing Eye Disorders: Best Foods for Eye Health

Many people don’t know how a diet can benefit eye health. Regarding the best food choices for your eye health, it is not just about eating carrots. There are many options you can explore and add to your diet.

A variety of vitamins and minerals are necessary for your eyes, which are delicate organs. The best eye specialist in Siliguri offers comprehensive and advanced eye care and support.

This blog shares some of the best foods for your eye well-being. Have a read:

Additionally, studies have stated that a diet high in nutrients can postpone or even prevent illnesses like:

One of the main causes of blindness in older persons is age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye that causes visual problems. Lack of water or necessary fatty acids is frequently the cause of dry eye syndrome.

Patients with diabetes who have poorly controlled blood sugar levels are at risk for diabetic retinopathy.

Key Nutrients for Eye Health – Let’s Understand

Vitamin A

Sources - Sweet potatoes, Carrots, Spinach, Squash, Kale, Chicken, Salmon, Goat Cheese, Eggs, Whole Milk,Sweet Red Pepper (raw), Romaine Lettuce, Swiss Chard (cooked), etc.

Maintaining a clean cornea—the outermost layer of your eye—and promoting night vision very much depends on vitamin A. Night blindness and more serious eye disorders can result from vitamin deficiencies, especially Vitamin A. These sources of Vitamin A you can add to your diet to benefit not only your eyes but also your overall health.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Sources – Dark Leafy Greens, Egg, Romaine Lettuce, Bell Peppers, Corn, Pistachios, Brussels Sprouts, Pumpkin, Goji, Lentil Beans, etc.

Your retina contains carotenoids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants that shield your eyes from UV and blue light. They lower the chance of cataracts and AMD. Lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent or slow eye issues like macular degeneration and cataracts.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Sources: Fatty fish like Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines, Flaxseeds, Walnuts, Soybeans, Chia seeds, etc.

Retinal function and the prevention of dry eye syndrome depend on omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, they contain anti-inflammatory qualities that improve eye health in general, which reduce your risk of macular degeneration and glaucoma.

Vitamin C

Sources: Oranges, Papaya, Black Currants, Parsley, Mustard Spinach, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Strawberries, Bell Peppers, Kiwi, Lemons, and Guavas.

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that promotes the health of the blood vessels in the eyes and protects them from damage caused by free radicals (lower oxidative stress). It is very helpful in lowering the chance of cataracts. Talk to your best eye specialist for routine checkups and diet advice.

Zinc

Sources: Oysters, Pumpkin Seeds, Chickpeas, Legumes, Cashews, Oats, Hemp Seeds, Tofu, etc.

The production of melanin, the protective pigment in the eyes, very much depends on zinc's ability to carry vitamin A from the liver to the retina. Poor night vision and an increased risk of AMD can result from a zinc deficiency.

Vitamin E

Sources: Almonds, Wheat Germ Oil, Beet Greens, Red Bell Pepper Spinach, Pine Nuts, Sunflower Seeds, Hazelnuts, Avocados.

This potent antioxidant protects the eyes from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

A healthy diet can aid in lowering oxidative stress and inflammation, two things linked to many eye conditions. Minerals like zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, together with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, serve as defenses against aging-related and environmental eye damage. See the top eye doctor in Siliguri Dr. Sangeeta D Goswami to get comprehensive eye care and advice.