#potato benefits and side effects

[nightbunnysong]

Boost hair growth naturally

THE BIOCHEMICAL POWER OF TEAS AND NUTRIENT-RICH FOODS

Herbal teas and their role in hair growth

🌸Green Tea

Active Components

the powerhouse in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant

Biochemical Mechanism

EGCG helps in blocking the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated DHT levels are linked to hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness). By reducing DHT production, green tea helps in preventing hair follicle shrinkage and hair thinning. Additionally, the polyphenols in green tea enhance blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen to thrive.

Usage

Drink 2-3 cups of green tea daily to reap its hair-boosting benefits. It can also be used as a rinse post-shampooing to stimulate the scalp directly.

🌸Nettle Tea

Active Components

Nettle is rich in iron, silica, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, D, and K.

Biochemical Mechanism

Nettle tea works as a natural DHT blocker, similar to green tea. Its high iron content supports hemoglobin production, enhancing oxygen delivery to the scalp and hair follicles. This is crucial because a well-oxygenated scalp provides an optimal environment for hair growth. The silica and sulfur in nettle also strengthen hair strands, improving hair’s structural integrity and reducing breakage.

Usage

Regular consumption of nettle tea (1-2 cups daily) can provide these essential nutrients. Additionally, a cooled nettle infusion can be used as a hair rinse to further strengthen hair shafts.

🌸Rosemary Tea

Active Components

Rosemary contains ursolic acid and caffeic acid.

Biochemical Mechanism

Ursolic acid found in rosemary improves scalp circulation, similar to EGCG in green tea. This ensures that hair follicles are well-nourished, promoting robust hair growth. Rosemary also has anti-inflammatory properties, which help in maintaining a healthy scalp environment by reducing potential scalp conditions like dandruff, which can hinder hair growth.

Usage

Drinking 1-2 cups of rosemary tea daily or using it as a hair rinse can provide these benefits. Infusing rosemary oil into your tea can further amplify its effects due to the added antioxidants.

Nutrient-dense foods for hair growth

🌸Biotin-rich foods

Key Foods

Eggs, almonds, sweet potatoes, spinach, and seeds.

Biochemical Mechanism

Biotin (Vitamin B7) is crucial for the production of keratin, the structural protein that makes up your hair. It acts as a coenzyme in fatty acid synthesis, which is essential for the growth and repair of cells, including hair cells. A deficiency in biotin can lead to hair thinning and brittleness.

Incorporation

Incorporate biotin-rich foods into your diet regularly. For example, adding a boiled egg to your breakfast or including sweet potato as a side dish can help maintain adequate biotin levels.

🌸Iron-rich foods

Key Foods

Lentils, red meat, spinach, and fortified cereals.

Biochemical Mechanism

Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues, including the scalp. Oxygenated blood nourishes hair follicles, facilitating the growth of strong, healthy hair. Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of hair loss, particularly in women.

Incorporation

Combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich foods like oranges or bell peppers to enhance absorption. For example, a spinach salad with orange slices can optimize iron intake and support hair growth.

🌸Omega-3 fatty acids

Key Foods

Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Biochemical Mechanism

Omega-3 fatty acids are integral to maintaining the lipid barrier of the scalp, which helps retain moisture and protect hair from drying out and breaking. They also reduce inflammation, which can sometimes hinder hair growth by causing scalp conditions like psoriasis or dandruff. Omega-3s contribute to the overall health of cell membranes in the scalp, making them more resilient.

Incorporation

Aim to consume fatty fish at least twice a week or add flaxseeds to your smoothies or cereals. Walnuts can also be a great snack option to keep your omega-3 levels adequate.

🌸Zinc-rich foods

Key Foods

Oysters, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and cashews.

Biochemical Mechanism

Zinc plays a key role in DNA and RNA production, which is essential for the division of hair follicle cells. It also helps regulate the production of androgens, a hormone linked to hair loss when imbalanced. Moreover, zinc helps in repairing hair tissue and maintaining oil glands around hair follicles, which are crucial for healthy hair growth.

Incorporation

Include zinc-rich foods in your diet, like a handful of pumpkin seeds as a snack or adding chickpeas to salads and stews.

🌸Vitamin E-rich foods

Key Foods

Sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, and avocados.

Biochemical Mechanism

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps repair damaged hair follicles, which can be a barrier to hair growth. It also improves blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles are nourished. Vitamin E helps balance oil production in the scalp, preventing dryness or excess oil, both of which can impede hair growth.

Incorporation

Sprinkle sunflower seeds on your yogurt or salads, or incorporate avocados into your meals for a healthy dose of vitamin E.

[photos from Pinterest]

[xbeezchaos]

BPD Howl Pendragon!

I knoooooowwww. I’ve literally been dead for months and apologies for this being something unrelated to the BPD Scara series I’ve been getting at but I’m currently fixated on Howl so I’ll be using him as my projector. I also highly believe this man has BPD and nobody can convince me otherwise

Btw. I don’t condone romanization of mental issues. I’m simply ✨projecting healthily✨

Jealousy flare ups and depressive episodes; what that looks like for Howl

He’s unsure why, but he has been struggling with jealousy in a much higher factor than what he’s typically used to. It may be due to your presence

Ever since you two have gained the new title of dating and made it public, he’s felt a sense of possessiveness over you in a way that felt consuming

He needed you in bed to sleep soundly at night, and if you weren’t there he’d have not a wink of sleep while he held one of your clothing items close, taking in your scent and crying to himself about why you weren’t here

He gets suspicious and jealous when you spend lots of time away from him and with other friends. He trusts you but he’s scared someone will take you away.

You try telling him these things you plan out, but sometimes he won’t listen after he’s become too worked up over the idea of you being away for so long

He spends hours in bed without water or food. No motivation to get up until he gets a message from you encouraging him

Sometimes you have to baby the tall man, wash his hair and brush it for him.

Getting him to eat is the worst, he blames his medication cause the side effects impact his appetite frequently but the benefits are “too good” to give it up for just that

When he does eat, he’s got a sweet tooth like no man’s business, you’d think he’d gone mad with the amount of sugary treats he’d consume. But at least he was eating now so you didn’t complain too much

If he’s not sleeping all day, he’s awake for days on end, unable to sleep and refuses to take his sleep aid pills because “they don’t work.”

He’s secretly really petty towards those around the two of you but tries his best to keep most of it to himself. Even if you know. He won’t tell you.

The sleep aid pills knock him flat on his ass and he hates it. Waking up to your giggles of how he fell asleep in your arms like a snoring baby would make his face flush in embarrassment

He dislikes a lot of people talking to him when he’s upset. He’ll start snapping and going silent. P

Sometimes despite how hard it is to get out of bed, when he does, he’ll try to do small things like clean, eat, and make you little gifts

He made you a phone charm and matching rings to wear, he’d spent all night on it, since he was in bed all day.

It’s hard when he’s having an episode due to his jealousy, if you or someone else doesn’t get to him in time he’ll start calling upon the shadows and it takes quite a while to get him to even process that anyone else besides him is within the vicinity, let alone fully calm down.

He gets very clingy when he’s depressed, he’ll carry around items of yours and calls them “support items”

He looks like a tall child with a blanket as he walks around the house doing his daily business. It’s the best you’ve seen him do in the last few weeks so you try to keep him with his support items often

“Coffee is not a meal, have you eaten anything today?”

“A cheese stick..” you hit him over the head with a rolled up newspaper after that and dragged him to go make food.

He’d done this for over a week now and despite the small efforts, a drink wasn’t enough for him to get through the day.

Extra sassy in his conversations with calcifer

Takes the longest showers ever and he’s always steaming like a boiled potato when he gets out

Becomes a tablet child to compete simple tasks

Irritable as hell when he’s around people he’s not fully comfortable with, like your friends he’s only met twice

He’d eventually try going off on his own and have a good time that way, then eventually end up having an anxiety attack when he starts getting into his own head again

It’s not that he’s not social, but when he feels ignored he gets quite irritable and especially quiet. Which is odd for him because he loves chatting with new people

[padfootagain]

Something Good (IV)

Chapter 4 : Ex

Here I come with a new chapter for this series! This is just cute, no warnings to be applied.

I hope you like this chapter!

***********

Warnings : none, just fluff

Sum up : Coming out of a divorce and trying to get used to being a single mom, while teaching your classes at University, you thought your life could not get more complicated than it already iss. But when you are asked to take care of the theatre club with the colleague that you really can't get along with, you realize that everything can still get ten times more complicated in your life. And when you start actually liking Professor Barnes, the troubles only grow exponentially...

Pairing: Ben Barnes x reader

Word Count: 2850

"He's so annoying!"

You planted your fork angrily into the innocent piece of potato in your plate, making your friend laugh.

"Oh, come on. He's not that bad," Jasmine argued, drinking some water.

"Sorry, forgot you fancied him."

She almost choked on her drink.

"I DO N…!"

She looked around, realizing that your colleagues were now staring at your side of the table.

It was lunchtime, or rather… it had been lunchtime about an hour before. You and your friend had been too busy to get a proper break, and were hurrying to finish eating to get back to work. The advantage of being late was that the lunch room was almost entirely empty, filled with researchers and PhD students from other departments you barely knew. You could thus talk all you wished about your new nemesis.

Because if at first you had tried to allow him the benefit of the doubt, you had given up after that last meeting.

Insufferable. Ben was truly insufferable.

"I do not fancy him," your colleague repeated, with the same outraged and angered look, only in a whisper this time.

"Really? I thought you did… What was the description you gave me when I arrived here last year… oh yeah. 'Gorgeous', 'charismatic'..."

She threw a piece of bread at your face, making you both laugh and effectively shushing you.

"I'm serious, Y/N," Jasmine resumed the conversation after taking a bite of her salad. "He's very sweet."

"For now, he has hidden that part of his personality with great talent."

"He just… he's shy. And I think something happened that made him fear change."

"What happened?"

Jasmine looked around for eavesdroppers, making you chuckled at her dramatic gesture. As if she was about to reveal a secret worthy of the MI6…

"No one knows. Some people say that Miles knows what it is, but he’s never told anyone. And you know how much Miles loves both hearing and talking about gossip. So, it must be something… strange."

"Strange? What now? Do you really picture that guy as a psychopathic murderer?" you joked, unable to refrain your laughter.

You were interrupted by a tired 'hello!' spoken behind you. Paul had just walked in, aiming for the coffee machine, unsurprisingly. You both waved at him before resuming your conversation. You were sitting at a table not too far from the sink and the old table on which rested an exhausted microwave, an electric kettle that only worked if you kept your finger pressed on the 'start' button, and the coffee machine. You thus had to speak a little louder to be heard as your colleague was preparing his hot beverage, the coffee machine making a rumbling noise that could be heard from across the corridor.

"Of course, nothing like that," Jasmine replied, rolling her eyes. "He's very sweet. I meant that something must have happened to him that kind of… closed him up. You know?"

"Closed him up? You mean… that shoved a stick up his arse…"

"Y/N! Don't be mean!"

It was your time to roll your eyes.

"Right… so what should I do about Ben then?"

"You should be more patient with him. Try to calm that tornado of yours."

"I'm a tornado now?"

"You do have a tendency to create chaos everywhere you go."

You reflected for a moment on this thought, and had to admit it wasn't entirely false. But then, your life had turned you into this ball of energy that could never calm down. With your demanding job, your daughter to take care of, single-parenting, your asshole of an ex-husband… if you slowed down, even for a moment, you were afraid you would crumble.

But then again, if your colleague was the kind to need time to accept change… maybe you could try to slow down, at least concerning the theatre club. Give him one more chance…

Ben was pacing. His office was small, and yet he took advantage of every square inch in an attempt to get rid of some of his frustration.

A stick up his arse?!

Really?!

“Not sure I was right to tell you about that…” Paul mumbled, watching his friend moving through the room.

“Oh, no! You were perfectly right to tell me! Because now, this is war.”

“Come on, Ben…”

“No! I really tried to be understanding. I am well aware that I am not perfect, and I could make things easier, and I tried. I really did try. But clearly, she has no intention to make an effort. Can you believe that? A stick up my arse… I’m going to show her. I’m going to show her if I can’t be cool and relaxed as well.”

Hands planted on his hips, he stared at the campus laid beyond his window. Students were here for the beginning of their classes. A new school year had begun, with its back and forth, its teenagers lost in corridors and a stressed level abnormally high for the teachers who needed to get used to teaching again.

A stick up his arse!

He needed to make you pay for this. But how? How could he show you that he was absolutely not the old, grumpy teacher you seemed to think he was?

Suddenly, a smile grew on his features, both bright and a little… dangerous.

“I know what I’m going to do!”

He turned to Paul in a twirl.

“I am going to find the perfect musical, one that all the students will want to perform. Then my play will be chosen and she will have to work on something I have decided for the whole year.”

“Alright… and what play is going to bring you your sweet but outrageously undeserved vengeance?”

“Oh yes, it’s going to be sweet, alright…”

“That was not the information you were meant to retain from my statement.”

“I need to find a play. I need to find a musical that’s cool… What kind of musicals are cool?”

Paul remained silent for a moment, arms crossed, thinking hard.

“Hamilton!”

Ben nodded with a bright smile.

“Excellent choice! I love that one too, it would be brilliant!”

“You’re welcome. I am unbelievably smart indeed, thank you, I am well aware of that.”

“Thank you, Paul,” Ben bowed down dramatically, making both of them laugh.

Paul had to leave for a class shortly after. Ben prepared himself a warm cup of tea before sitting down behind his desk, ready to go back to work. He still had to go through the lesson he was giving the next day to some of the first-year students, and then go through several articles, fill up a form to get access to some rare documents of the local archives, and he also had to check for a trip to London to the British Library to work on original manuscripts in the coming months…

He heaved a sigh: so many things to do. He picked up a blank sheet of paper and wrote down his to-do list, pushing up his glasses as they began slipping down his nose. He stared at the list for a moment, checking if he had forgotten anything else…

Oh, but he needed to find another musical! He remembered then that you had agreed on three plays to propose for a vote to your students. One you could choose individually, and one you would settle on together. He needed to come up with one more option…

He thought about it for a few minutes, but his brain was already set on this lesson he had to prepare, and he gave up quickly. He couldn’t focus on this now. Besides, he reckoned that his impressive collection of films at home would help him find inspiration. For now, he merely added another line at the bottom of his to-do list, set the paper next to his computer screen, and went back to work.

Ex-husband. Ex. That was still a term you had to wrap your mind around.

Ex.

It was a strange feeling, really. Saying goodbye to the person you believed would spend the rest of his life with you. And all of a sudden, by the gain of this little particle before his designation, all your plans for the next 60 years had to be re-written.

Ex. That's what these two little letters meant. A whole life planned out and vanishing.

It was outstanding, really, what two tiny letters could carry within their shapes. It wasn't just a new way to define a person, that was only what a dictionary would have offered as a definition. But you knew better, you taught English Literature after all. You tried to teach that to your students. Words mean more than what the dictionary reveals.

Inside these two letters were the months spent fighting with him. The weeks you didn't sleep. The rage within your ribcage. The loss. The grief. The doubts. The loneliness of coming home to an empty house when you had believed you would never have to do that again. Thinking of ways to tell your daughter until you got headaches. The lawyers. A pen. Signing your name, the same signature as the one you had used when you got married, this time to break a vow instead of building one. It was staring at your wedding ring for weeks without being able to take it off; and then finally slipping it off your finger while crying and hiding it away in a drawer. It was removing his pictures in your house. It was finding a new place because your home felt too empty without him. It was staring at his name for hours on your phone screen in the dark of your bedroom without dialling the number. It was waking up alone. It was sharing custody of your daughter. It was grief. And then… then it was fear. Fear that maybe there was something wrong with you, and that it was the reason why it didn't work out in the first place.

That was where you were at after a year of separation. It was tough, you weren't going to deny it. It was hell, even. But you still got out of bed every morning, so you reckoned you weren't doing so bad.

The flat felt empty and too silent without your daughter around. It was the weekend, and she was with your husband.

No, ex-husband. Ex.

The infamous two little letters.

You were alone in your apartment, just scrolling on your phone at random while something was on TV, but you didn't even know what it was. A movie of some kind. Despite the noise coming from the screen, there were no giggles from your daughter, you couldn't hear her play or draw, rummaging through all her little pencils. Instead, you were stuck with the TV screen. It felt lonely.

That was the hardest part: you were lonely.

You hadn't felt that way since you started dating your ex. Even when the two of you were apart because of a business trip, the only knowledge that he was missing you filled the hole in your chest. But there was nothing now to ease the feeling.

Sometimes, like today, you even missed him. Even wished the two of you were fighting, at least then you wouldn't be on your own. It was stupid and you knew it, but what else could you do against a pain like that?

Your friends encouraged you to go out more, now that you were single again, and some of your evenings were free when your daughter was with her father. But it wasn't the point, and your friends didn't get it. Even when you were with them, you were lonely. It wasn't about seeing friends, it was about being alone. You weren't sure how to explain it, weren’t sure how to find the right words. Ironic for someone who spent her life studying the words of others…

You stood up in a jolt and moved to your bedroom to open a drawer. The strength of your movement disrupted some of your clothes, although your drawer was more of a messy agglomeration of fabric than anything else. Folding took too long, after all. You rummaged through the socks, t-shirts and jeans until you found that little velvet box you had been looking for. Two rings inside, for when Steve proposed and when he married you. You were crying before you could even notice.

You almost wished it wasn't over. Almost. You had to leave him though.

But you were alone now, and what if you couldn't love anyone else?

Or worse, what if no one else could love you?

No, you couldn’t let yourself think this way. You were not perfect by any means, but your husband was also to blame for the end of your marriage. Actually, it was mostly his fault. You had made a bargain, and he didn’t respect his part of the agreement.

You threw the box back into your drawer, burying it deep under your clothes, and stormed out of the room.

You needed something to do. And this bloody TV was completely uninteresting.

What to do? What to do…? Watch a movie! That would take your mind off of your self-pity. Alright, a movie… what movie…

You scanned the shelf upon which you kept your DVDs. You could have checked Netflix, but didn’t feel like it. You wanted a safe option, something you were certain to enjoy. So your own DVDs it was…

Your finger ran across the boxes until you found the perfect one. A movie that would make you cry but in the best way.

You got yourself some popcorn before settling with a warm blanket on your sofa, as the first notes of Moulin Rouge! played.

Ewan McGregor’s sweet voice… it was just what you needed.

Ben had spent a lovely day. A nice run early in this Sunday morning while the sun was still shy and delicate. He had spent quite a while on the phone with his parents, and then with his brother. Then he had met up with a couple of friends for a late lunch, and after a walk across the city he had ended his day by a couple of hours reading. Dinner while listening to the news on the radio, and finally, he was about to settle for a nice movie night. Just what he needed to be full of energy to start a brand-new week the next day.

He had poured himself a glass of red wine and was about to settle in front of some Netflix show he had been binge-watching that week, when he suddenly caught a glimpse of a small piece of paper set on his coffee table.

He heaved a sigh as he picked it up, already knowing what it said, but reading the last line anyway.

On the to-do list, all the tasks had been crossed out, except for one. The last line.

Find another musical - theatre club

He bit his lip, hesitated, but decided he had to complete this one last task. He would keep on thinking about it while watching his show if he didn’t, and he couldn’t have that. It would ruin his evening.

So, instead of settling under a warm blanket, he turned on his heels and walked to the bookshelves on which he kept his DVD collection. A collection he had curated for years. He was almost as proud of it as he was of his book collection. And that was saying a lot…

He narrowed his eyes a little, having left his glasses on his coffee table, and scanned the titles of the movies in search for inspiration. He did have a respectable choice of musicals, as he enjoyed the genre very much. The perfect mix of storytelling and music… how could he not like that?

He scanned the titles, letting his finger run across the boxes to guide his eyes.

Hair? No. Awesome music, but he didn’t feel like doing something so political.

Les Mis? No, too long, and too depressing.

The Sound of Music was your choice already.

My fair lady? Too much of a classic, and he needed something cooler to contradict your impression of him.

West Side Story? You had used your veto for this one.

His finger stopped on the next one. He took a sip of alcohol, staring at the title for a moment, before picking it up from the shelf.

He turned off Netflix to watch his DVD instead.

Settling on his couch as the first notes echoed through his apartment, Ben smiled, knowing that he had made the right choice.

The world of prostitution and parties in the Paris of the end of the 19th century, with a passionate and yet tragic love story, and a set of amazing songs… you would see if he had a ‘stick up his arse…’.

Yes, Moulin Rouge! was the perfect choice.

Ha… and Ewan McGregor’s sweet voice! Yes, as Ben took another sip of his red wine, he reckoned that this was a perfect evening indeed.

[lornainthewoods]

Sending sympathy to any fellow ADHDers out there who might also stare at the clock when you sleep in late debating if you want to take your meds…cause you know if you do you’ll be awake much later than you want to be and not get enough sleep (even though the benefits of your meds will have worn off long before that), while also knowing that the reason you slept late is because you were up too late as a side effect…again.

But if you don’t take them you will spend even MORE of your day in an unproductive potato state with a gross amount of grogginess and fatigue.

I hate this.

[bihansthot]

I’m having just a miserable day, I think my CMV is back. I’m having the same stomach issues and exhaustion I did when I first came down with it. So, I’m suspicious it’s back and not my mycophenolate that’s causing the issue which would make sense because it’s stupid to have a drug I’ve been taking for 25 years suddenly cause side effects although I guess not unheard of. I’m just so exhausted with all these health problems. I just want to be able to write for you lovelies and answer my asks but all I can really do right now is curl up in a pitiful little ball and watch YouTube. I can manage rice, potatoes and bread, that’s about it, thankfully coffee too, so I’m not a complete zombie. I’m sure you’re all sick of me complaining about my physical ailments but fuck it’s been so hard, I just want to be ok again but I’m quickly coming to the realization that 25 years post heart transplant might mean there is no feeling ok again. Apparently there was a big breakthrough in treatment today though and they’re starting human trials on a new drug or antibody or something that doesn’t have awful, crippling, kidney destroying side effects. I wonder if I’ll live long enough to be able to benefit from it? That would be so nice. I think I’m going to take it easy the rest of the evening and maybe give writing a shot tonight? Maybe? We’ll see. I’m accepting any and all positive vibes and hugs if anyone wants to throw some my way. I will call my doctor tomorrow and try and get back on top of this illness instead of not knowing what the heck was happening and letting it run unchecked for months. Hopefully you lovelies are having a good day 💙

[cannabiscomrade]

Making the difficult decision to stop pleasure eating for the most part. I’m having more side effects than benefits, even when I try to drain it out.

I tolerate a few lays potato chips or McDonald’s French fries like. 70% of the time. That’s about it. Everything else causes immense pain and nausea for days.

It’s just hard because that’s what I was doing under the supervision of my GI team to see if any gastric motility was retained after covid. It seems it has not. Before covid my 4 hour retention was 71% already.

[mental-health-monday]

Deescalating Anger and Tension by Going in Sideways

A bit of a weird post for this blog… I’m a new(ish) parapro, and have often found it difficult to get some children to follow directions by directly addressing the issue… so I tried a few different things.

In my brief time working in this field, I’ve found some kids are kind of like oobleck (bear with me): if you go into a situation too fast, they’ll resist with equal force and form a hard barrier; but if you go in slowly, at an angle, they’ll be more inclined to listen.

Useful for parents, childcare workers, educators, or yourself…

1.) Pick out a word they said and randomly tell them a fun fact. Expound upon it.

For instance: One kid said something like “You’re so stupid and no one cares about you, you’re weak like an omega wolf” to another kid as an insult, which got another kid asking about what “omega” meant. I took that as an opportunity to infodump about the Greek alphabet, explain the etymology of the word “alphabet,” then tell them the Hebrew translation “aleph-bet.” They were fully intrigued. Whenever they’d start to get mad at each other again, I’d drop another fun fact.

It didn’t entirely stop the insults from flying; but it stalled them from throwing punches (or chairs or desks) until the teacher got there, who was able to straighten them out better than I could.

2.) The fidget toy.

Gently pull the distressed child away from the child who is teasing them (tell the other child to back off in a firm voice). Let them cool off a bit. Ask them how they’re feeling and affirm them. Talk to them if they want to talk, or remain silent if they don’t.

Quietly pull out a fidget toy (I recommend a Tangle because it’s more visually appealing), and start fidgeting. Wait for them to look at it. Ask if they’d like to try. If they agree, let them borrow it; if not, leave them alone (you kind of have to read the room pretty accurately on this one). If I do get the kid to borrow the fidget toy, I find they’ll usually calm down within a few minutes and it’s super effective.

I’ve found this one works best if they’ve never seen you with the fidget toy before; because the second time you pull it out they’ll know it’s for their benefit which may put them off. Some kids will ask for the fidget toy if they’re stressed out, which is always a good sign.

So basically, it’s potent; but use it wisely.

3.) Ask “What are you thinking right now?”

Pretty self-explanatory. If a kid looks like they’re reaching the boiling point and are about to hit another kid; try to get them to verbalize their feelings, and maybe it’ll get them to think about the consequences before doing anything like they’re thinking. Always say “It’s okay to feel angry; but we shouldn’t hurt people,” or some variation thereof. Don’t push too much though. Make it clear you’re there for them without necessarily taking sides.

4.) Point out the environment.

Once a couple kids were absolutely refusing to come back in from recess. It was a hot day outside, so I remarked “Don’t you want water? It’s really hot out.”

“No water.”

“You guys are all gonna be baked potatoes if you don’t go in; it’s HOT. I might just have to get some cheddar, sour cream, and bacon bits so I can eat you. I love baked potatoes. Yum.”

“We’re in the shade. We’re not hot.”

“Well I’m not in the shade; and I can’t go in until you go in, and it’s too hot for me out here. Guess I’ll become a baked potato, then.”

They went inside shortly after, complaining it was too hot outside. Basically use a lot of repetition so they start feeling the effects, and maybe start considering, “Hm… maybe they’re not just blowing hot air.” (or whatever the kids call hot air nowadays)

5.) Ask another kid for help.

Sometimes a kid might be anxious around adults, and won’t want to hear from you at all. They may be at risk of running away, and your close (but necessary) presence would only trigger them to do that.

I was having a hard time getting [Kid A] to come in to tell their account of what they saw two other kids doing which led up to a fight. They didn’t do anything themselves, and their behavior was probably caused by a fear of having to go to the office to tell their side of the story.

I wasn’t about to chase this kid because 1.) it wasn’t right in this situation 2.) they had a history of eloping, and 3.) they were too fast for me to catch if they did elope

Enter [Kid B], who is friends with [Kid A]. They’re wondering what’s wrong, so I explain, “Hey, your friend is a little scared of having to go to the office to tell about a fight. Can you tell them for me, that they’re not in trouble, and the office just wants to hear what they saw.”

It worked. I thanked [Kid B] and gave them a school reward ticket.

[nono-uwu]

Kinda late to the whole "ons newer art style is kinda meh" thing but I think I finally put my finger on why the newer art style feels off. (This may have been said before but eh)

So earlier on and into a good chunk of the series, let's say chapter 1 all the way to chapter 70ish, had a more stereotypical anime style. Slim, soft faces, fluffy hair and big eyes. Of course it evolved over time like any artstyle does but stayed consistent enough. Did it make certain Characters look younger than they are? Yeah, but it was cute and expressive. The more 'mature' or 'macho' characters characters like Crowley, Kureto, Guren, Rigr or even Horn had slightly sharper/blockier features and smaller eyes but they still held that anime-style charm. Plus it hit the perfect androgynous looks imo for characters like Shikama or Asuramaru.

The newer art style, so chapter 70ish onward, has a more blockier style for face shapes and more 'realistic' eye proportions. All in all more "mature". This however had the side effect of making characters look like they have a potato instead of a head. Not to mention now there's a weird empty space on some characters faces which before was taken up by their eyes. I'm not saying people irl don't have blockier chins, it's just a little jarring when Yuu all of a sudden has a square chin and a balloon for a head. Also, so many characters have undergone hairloss?? Crowley, Guren and Yuu's hair are so flat now?? They look like their hair fell our from stress (plausible but I doubt that would ever happen in universe lmao). The only characters who imo managed to survive or even benefit from the newer artstyle are Mika and Shinoa. Technically angel Mika too because the first time we saw him was in the newer artstyle iirc. Shikama almost made it but the lastest chapter gave him a blocky chin, sad.

P.S. I'm in no way hating on Yamamoto's art. Their art is beautiful and it definetly takes a lot of dedication to draw constantly for the same series for over 10 years. Major respect to them. However, I think many others agree with me that the new artstyle, while not bad on a technical level, just doesn't have the original charm of "cute teens with big 'ol weapons fight their way through obstacles with the power of family and also violence".

TL;DR: Older ons artstyle -> more anime-like, cuter, floofy hair, mostly consistent; newer ons artstyle -> more 'mature', faces and heads look a lil weird with smaller eyes and flatter hair, why are their chins so square

[myf00djournal]

Wednesday ✨

Trained upper body

Went on a 4km walk

Husband cooked me brekky- two eggs, two slices of toast, a hashbrown, rindless short cut bacon 🥓

Had a coffee

Ate leftovers for lunch - the plant based Mexican bean bowl

THENNNN I had my iron infusion which I have had scheduled for a few weeks. I get cold and flu-like side effects from it as I have had two in the last two years. Absolutely bed ridden and it makes me not want to get them although I know the benefit outweighs this. My doctor recommended I drink milk before during and after so I downed a 750ml oak 😝 then my blood pressure got super low and I had to drink a lot of water before I could leave.

So right now my body is 99% milk and water lol

Throws the macros out for the day but yolo doctors orders

Dinner will be a pork potato pie dish and if I can stomach a snack I shall

[away-ward]

“What the hell is she wearing?” Kai asked, looking out toward the foyer. I followed his gaze, seeing Rika enter and hand her coat to the attendant. She wore sleep shorts with avocados all over them and a matching shirt that read I Avo Crush On You. Michael started laughing under his breath, shaking his head. “I can’t believe she still has those pajamas. My mom gave them to her when she was like fifteen, and I felt so bad for her. But she wore ’em anyway. That’s what she must’ve gone back home for today, I guess.” He walked over to her, and she tried to hide her embarrassed smile as he scooped her up in his arms and laughed with her.

an expert from hideaway

so this is penelope using banks as a vessel to express how much rika is not like other girls

and this too

“I love you guys,” Michael said, “but are you fucking dense? You’re my friends. She is everything. Maybe someday you’ll know what the fuck I’m talking about.”

im so mad because this bitch michael had an entire goddamn book to confess his undying love to his girlfriend but he doesnt. he is a complete a hole in corrupt and penelope said thats just the way he is built so WHY is this bitch acting lovey dovey all of a sudden and ruining and taking time away from the MCs of the book?

if i have to list out all the instances where michael and erika ruined the show in hideaway then i have to copy paste the whole book.

so basically i felt it when the anons said erika was present in places she shouldn't be and should just get lost

Yeah, the Avocado pajama scene sort of felt like a “Rika’s not like those other girls who wear lingerie to a party; she’s quirky and ironic” message. I try to give PD the benefit of the doubt and say they saw the shirt and wanted to put Rika in it.

I mean, it definitely wasn’t going to be Banks walking around with an avocado pun on her shirt.

(although, what a funny sleepover idea. Like Rika wants to have a girl's night, and she creates these little gift baskets for Banks, Winter, and Em and each one has a pajama set with a quirky pun on it that's specific to each girl's taste. I don't know what they'd be, but the image in my head of Rika forcing Banks into an ironic pun pajama set and forcing all of them to take a picture is marvelous.)

I personally like the “She is everything” scene and I think the series need more of them, with some variation of course. The other couples deserved to have some sort of declaration scenes. It didn’t need to be to the group, but I felt that it was missing a lot of the time.

taking time away from the MCs of the book?

Well, I don’t mind that Michael and Rika show up and having an effect on other parts of the series. My issue comes in with the roles they play. I think Rika (and the others that we’ve all already discussed) had too big of a role throughout the rest of the series to the point that it felt imbalanced.

And I don’t mind that the scene happened a year later. I feel like this has probably been building between Michael and Kai for a while as Kai overstepped his bounds with Rika time and time again. It was actually kind of refreshing to see Michael take Rika’s side and defend her, even from his best and closest friend; even from someone who’s not even really a threat and he knows it.

Idk, this is one scene I don’t fault Michael for. I will say that it might have been better from Kai’s POV vs. Banks, just narratively speaking, but’s small potatoes.

-KO

[njabulomash]

Penis Enlargement in Pretoria+27 60 837 9552: A Complete Guide

Herbal Penis Enlargement in Pretoria: A Complete Guide

If you're looking for a natural way to enlarge your penis, you may have heard about herbal remedies. In Pretoria, South Africa, there are many traditional healers who claim to have natural remedies that can increase penis size. But how effective are these treatments? In this article, we'll explore the world of herbal penis enlargement in Pretoria, including its history, benefits, and risks.

Introduction to Herbal Penis Enlargement in Pretoria

Herbal penis enlargement has been around for centuries, and many cultures have their own traditional remedies. In Pretoria, traditional healers have been using herbs to treat various conditions, including erectile dysfunction and penis size enhancement. These remedies are usually made from natural ingredients like roots, leaves, and bark, and are taken as a tea or applied topically.

How Herbal Penis Enlargement Works

There are several ways that herbal remedies can increase penis size. Some herbs are known to increase blood flow to the penis, which can result in a larger erection. Others can stimulate the production of testosterone, which can lead to increased muscle mass and a more prominent penis. Some herbs can even increase the number of cells in the penis, resulting in permanent growth.

Popular Herbs for Penis Enlargement in Pretoria

There are many herbs that traditional healers in Pretoria use for penis enlargement. Some of the most popular include:

Imphepho: This herb is known for its calming properties, but it's also used to improve sexual health. It's believed to increase blood flow to the penis, resulting in larger erections.

African potato: This root is used for a variety of purposes, including penis enlargement. It's believed to increase the production of testosterone, leading to larger muscles and a bigger penis.

Muti: This is a term used for traditional medicine in South Africa. There are many muti remedies that claim to enhance penis size. Some of these include a mixture of herbs, roots, and animal parts.

Butea superba: This herb is native to Thailand, but it's also used in traditional African medicine. It's believed to improve sexual function by increasing blood flow to the penis.

Benefits of Herbal Penis Enlargement

One of the main benefits of herbal penis enlargement is that it's a natural solution. Unlike surgery or synthetic drugs, herbal remedies have few side effects and are generally safe to use. They're also affordable and accessible, especially in countries like South Africa where traditional healers are prevalent. Additionally, many men report an increase in self-confidence after using these remedies.

Risks and Side Effects of Herbal Penis Enlargement

While herbal penis enlargement is generally safe, there are some risks and side effects to be aware of. Some herbs can interact with medications or cause allergic reactions. Others can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. Additionally, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these remedies, and they may not work for everyone.

How to Choose a Herbal Penis Enlargement Remedy

If you're interested in trying herbal penis enlargement, it's important to choose a reputable source. Look for a traditional healer who has experience with these remedies and can provide you with detailed instructions on how to use them. Avoid buying remedies from unlicensed sources or online retailers, as these may be unsafe or ineffective.

Conclusion

Herbal penis enlargement is a popular practice in Pretoria and other parts of South Africa. While there is little scientific evidence to support these remedies, many men have reported success with them. If you're considering trying herbal penis enlargement, it's important to do your research and choose a reputable traditional healer. Remember, however, that

[anotherdayforchaosfay]

I have my drugs!!! Woot!!!

They're for treating my ears after the fuckery that is covid. You can read about all that stuff here:

We figured out that moving around a lot, like doing laundry, makes shit worse. So I've been doing bare fucking minimum because my ears fucking hurt. I was told to sleep upright, which is really fucking difficult btw. I set up one of the sofa pillows on top of my cervical pillow because laying completely flat is outta the question. My head was at an odd angle all night, but I did manage to sleep last night. But the pharmacy didn't have my meds ready until late this afternoon, and one was a partial fill.

So, why am I excited about these? Methylprednisolone is an amaaaaaazing steroid medication that I've taken in the past when my asthma was trying to kill me. It also came with the side benefits of my wrist having zero pain, as well as my eczema and psoriasis vanishing for a few weeks. It's gonna work magic on my ears. The other med is psuedophedrine aka sudafed. It's a controlled substance here because it's used to make meth. It's a powerful decongestant. FYI the OTC version called phenylephrine isn't really effective, and it dries out the sinuses.

Both of these start tomorrow morning. I will be experiencing human zoomies for the next nine days. The ornaments are gonna get finished, I will probably do a mad amount of baking, the house will.ve fucking spotless, and I will be able to draw for the first time in YEARS. This us not mania, it's side effects. Husband is very concerned, but also looking forward to me not being in pain. Plus the whole walking like I'm drunk and only being able to hear outta one ear have been particularly annoying.

I've been drinking enough hot tea that my kidneys and bladder are in impressive condition. LOL I was told to hydrate and have lots of hot drinks and hot food. Today I "made" New England clam chowder. By which I mean I bought some of the canned stuff, but that shit is too brothy, so I added a couple cans of clams, diced potatoes, and a blend of peas and carrots. It takes good. My sinuses feel better, and my belly is full. Plus, I have enough leftover for at least six more servings. Don't come at me about using the canned stuff. I don't have the energy to make this shit from scratch, and canned stuff is cheap.

Currently fighting sleep at 7:15PM because I had shit for sleep last night/this morning. I think I'm running on maybe four hours of sleep. Last three or so nights have been bad. Hopefully, tonight, I sleep deep and get much needed rest. Might crash around 10PM. Tomorrow starts with picking up Jasper's ashes, and crying will fuck me up royally. Yeah, grieving made my ear issue worse. Rude.

The next nine days or so are gonna be interesting.

[openintegrative]

Potassium: Benefits & Sources

Potassium is essential for regulating fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle function.

It supports heart health and helps maintain proper blood pressure.

Adequate potassium intake can prevent kidney stones and support bone health.

Deficiency may lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heartbeats.

Potassium sources include coconut water, avocados, and leafy greens.

What is Potassium?

Potassium is an important mineral and electrolyte that plays a vital role in the body. It helps regulate fluid balance, supports nerve signaling, and ensures that muscles, including the heart, function properly.

Maintaining healthy potassium levels is necessary for overall health, particularly for blood pressure management.

Benefits of Potassium

Heart Health: Potassium helps manage blood pressure by balancing the effects of sodium. This balance reduces the risk of hypertension and stroke. Adequate potassium levels support healthy blood vessels, promoting better blood flow and reducing heart strain.

Bone Health: Adequate potassium intake is associated with better bone density and a reduced risk of osteoporosis. Potassium helps neutralize acids in the body that can lead to calcium loss from bones, which is essential for maintaining bone strength.

Kidney Health: Potassium helps prevent kidney stones by reducing calcium loss in the urine. A diet rich in potassium can lower the risk of developing kidney stones, often caused by excessive calcium in the urine.

Muscle Function: Potassium is necessary for proper muscle contractions. A lack of potassium can lead to muscle weakness and cramps. Ensuring adequate potassium intake supports overall muscle strength and function.

Sources of Potassium

Coconut water

Cream of tartar

Leafy Greens

Avocados

Potatoes

Bananas

Supplements: While food sources are preferred, potassium supplements are available. These should be taken with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as excessive potassium intake can lead to health issues.

Potassium Deficiency

Signs and Symptoms: A lack of potassium can result in muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. Severe deficiency can lead to more serious health problems, including heart issues.

Causes: Potassium deficiency can stem from a poor diet, excessive fluid loss (through sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting), and the use of certain medications, such as diuretics.

Risks: Chronic deficiency can lead to significant health concerns, including an increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.

Maintaining Adequate Potassium Levels

Dietary Recommendations: To maintain healthy potassium levels, it’s important to consume potassium-rich foods regularly. The recommended daily intake varies, but generally, adults should aim for about 2,500 to 4,700 milligrams per day.

Balance with Sodium: Electrolytes and trace minerals need to be balanced in the body. While potassium helps lower blood pressure, isolated sodium can raise it. Maintaining this balance is essential for cardiovascular health. Supplemental magnesium is often recommended.

Supplements: In some cases, supplements may be necessary, especially if dietary intake is insufficient or if there are medical reasons for low potassium levels. However, potassium supplements should be used carefully and under medical advice.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Excess Potassium: While potassium is important, too much can be harmful. Excessive potassium levels can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition that affects heart function and can be life-threatening if not managed properly.

Medication Interactions: Certain medications can influence potassium levels. For example, some blood pressure medications, like ACE inhibitors, can increase potassium levels. Monitoring potassium intake is important if you are on such medications.

Special Considerations: Individuals with kidney disease or other health conditions affecting potassium excretion should be cautious about potassium intake. These individuals are at higher risk for hyperkalemia and should manage their potassium levels with their healthcare provider’s guidance.

Conclusion

Potassium is essential for overall health, supporting heart function, muscle contractions, and maintaining fluid balance. Ensuring adequate potassium intake through a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other potassium-containing foods is crucial for preventing deficiency and promoting long-term health.

FAQ

What are the best sources of potassium? Foods like bananas, potatoes, avocados, and leafy greens are excellent sources.

Can I take potassium supplements? It’s generally better to get potassium from food, but supplements may be needed in certain situations.

What happens if I don’t get enough potassium? Deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and irregular heartbeats.

Is it possible to have too much potassium? Yes, excessive potassium can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition that can affect heart function.

How does potassium affect blood pressure? Potassium helps lower blood pressure by balancing the effects of sodium

Research

D’Elia, L., 2024. Potassium Intake and Human Health. Nutrients, [online] 16(6), p.833. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16060833.

Freedman, M. R., Fulgoni, V. L., & Lieberman, H. R. (2024). Temporal changes in micronutrient intake among United States Adults, NHANES 2003 through 2018: A cross-sectional study. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 119(5), 1309-1320. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.02.007

Greer, R.C., Marklund, M., Anderson, C.A.M., Cobb, L.K., Dalcin, A.T., Henry, M. and Appel, L.J., 2020. Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes as a Means to Lower Blood Pressure. Hypertension, [online] 75(2), pp.266–274. https://doi.org/10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.13241.

He, F. J., & MacGregor, G. A. (2008). Beneficial effects of potassium on human health. Physiologia Plantarum, 133(4), 725-735. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-3054.2007.01033.x

Laskowski, M., Augustynek, B., Kulawiak, B., Koprowski, P., Bednarczyk, P., Jarmuszkiewicz, W., & Szewczyk, A. (2016). What do we not know about mitochondrial potassium channels? Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Bioenergetics, 1857(8), 1247-1257. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbabio.2016.03.007

McAllen, P.M., 1955. MYOCARDIAL CHANGES OCCURRING IN POTASSIUM DEFICIENCY. Heart, [online] 17(1), pp.5–14. https://doi.org/10.1136/hrt.17.1.5.

McLean, R. M., & Wang, N. X. (2021). Potassium. Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, 96, 89-121. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.afnr.2021.02.013

Murrell, T.S., Mikkelsen, R.L., Sulewski, G., Norton, R. and Thompson, M.L., 2021. Improving potassium recommendations for agricultural crops (p. 455). Springer Nature. https://library.oapen.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.12657/46118/1/2021_Book_ImprovingPotassiumRecommendati.pdf

Palmer, B. F., & Clegg, D. J. (2016). Achieving the Benefits of a High-Potassium, Paleolithic Diet, Without the Toxicity. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 91(4), 496-508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2016.01.012

Rude, R. K. (1989). Physiology of magnesium metabolism and the important role of magnesium in potassium deficiency. The American Journal of Cardiology, 63(14), G31-G34. https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9149(89)90216-6

STERNS, RICHARD H. M.D.1; COX, MALCOLM M.D.2; FEIG, PETER U. M.D.3; SINGER, IRWIN M.D.2. Internal Potassium Balance and the Control of the Plasma Potassium Concentration. Medicine 60(5):p 339-354, September 1981.

Sebastian, A., Frassetto, L. A., Sellmeyer, D. E., & Morris, R. C. (2006). The Evolution-Informed Optimal Dietary Potassium Intake of Human Beings Greatly Exceeds Current and Recommended Intakes. Seminars in Nephrology, 26(6), 447-453. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.semnephrol.2006.10.003

Stone, M. S., Martyn, L., & Weaver, C. M. Potassium Intake, Bioavailability, Hypertension, and Glucose Control. Nutrients, 8(7), 444. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8070444

Thier, S. O. (1986). Potassium physiology. The American Journal of Medicine, 80(4), 3-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9343(86)90334-7

Touitou, Y., Godard, J.P., Ferment, O., Chastang, C., Proust, J., Bogdan, A., Auzéby, A. and Touitou, C., 1987. Prevalence of magnesium and potassium deficiencies in the elderly. Clinical Chemistry, [online] 33(4), pp.518–523. https://doi.org/10.1093/clinchem/33.4.518.

Weaver, Connie M. PhD; Stone, Michael S. MS; Lobene, Andrea J. MS, RDN; Cladis, Dennis P. MS; Hodges, Joanna K. PhD. What Is the Evidence Base for a Potassium Requirement?. Nutrition Today 53(5):p 184-195, 9/10 2018. | DOI: 10.1097/NT.0000000000000298

Weaver, C. M. (2013). Potassium and Health. Advances in Nutrition, 4(3), 368S-377S. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.112.003533

Zacchia, M., Abategiovanni, M.L., Stratigis, S. and Capasso, G., 2016. Potassium: From Physiology to Clinical Implications. Kidney Diseases, [online] 2(2), pp.72–79. https://doi.org/10.1159/000446268.

[bbqweddingcateringbarrie]

The Art of Smoked Meat Catering: Tips for a Memorable Feast

Smoked meat catering is not just about food; it’s an experience that tantalizes the senses and brings people together. From the rich, smoky aroma wafting through the air to the tender, juicy cuts that melt in your mouth, smoked meat has an undeniable appeal. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or backyard gathering, incorporating smoked meat catering can elevate your occasion to new heights. In this article, we’ll explore the art of smoked meat catering and share tips to ensure your feast is truly memorable.

1. Choose the Right Catering Company

Expertise Matters

When it comes to smoked meat, selecting a catering company that specializes in this culinary art is crucial. Look for a caterer with experience in smoking techniques and a solid reputation. A reputable company will offer a variety of meats, such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage, all prepared with skill and care.

Check Reviews and Portfolios

Before making a decision, check reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Look for examples of their work, including photos of past events and food presentations. A caterer with a strong portfolio and positive feedback is more likely to deliver a memorable experience.

2. Customize Your Menu

Variety of Options

One of the key benefits of smoked meat catering is the ability to customize your menu. Consider offering a range of smoked meats, sides, and accompaniments to cater to different tastes and preferences. Common smoked meat options include:

Brisket: Tender and flavorful, often served sliced or chopped.

Pulled Pork: Juicy and shredded, ideal for sandwiches or platters.

Ribs: Whether baby back or spare ribs, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

Smoked Sausages: A great addition to any smoked meat feast.

Side Dishes Matter

Complement your smoked meats with delicious sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and potato salad. These sides not only enhance the meal but also provide variety, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget about sauces and condiments, like tangy barbecue sauce, to elevate the flavors further.

3. Consider Your Event Theme

Match the Atmosphere

The presentation and style of your smoked meat catering should align with your event theme. For casual backyard gatherings, consider serving family-style or buffet-style meals that encourage guests to serve themselves and mingle. For more formal events, plated service with elegant presentation can add a touch of sophistication.

Enhance with Decor

Enhance the dining experience by incorporating themed decor that complements your smoked meat feast. Rustic elements like wooden serving platters, mason jars, and checkered tablecloths can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. If you’re hosting an outdoor event, string lights and natural elements can elevate the ambiance.

4. Plan for Cooking and Serving

On-Site vs. Off-Site Catering

Decide whether you want the caterer to cook on-site or deliver pre-cooked meats. On-site cooking can create an interactive experience, allowing guests to see the smoking process and enjoy the fresh aroma. However, off-site catering can be just as effective if you have a well-equipped setup for serving.

Efficient Serving

If you opt for a buffet or family-style service, ensure that your caterer has a plan for efficient serving. Keeping the food hot and fresh is essential for a successful smoked meat feast. Discuss logistics with your caterer to ensure smooth operations during the event.

5. Engage Your Guests

Interactive Elements

Consider incorporating interactive elements into your catering experience. For instance, you could set up a build-your-own sandwich station where guests can customize their sandwiches with various meats, sauces, and toppings. This not only enhances the dining experience but also encourages socializing among guests.

Encourage Sharing

Smoked meat is often best enjoyed in a communal setting. Encourage guests to share their favorite dishes, swap stories about barbecue experiences, and engage in lively conversations over delicious food. This sense of camaraderie adds to the overall enjoyment of the feast.

6. Don’t Forget About Beverages

Pairing Drinks with Smoked Meat

Selecting the right beverages to complement your smoked meat is essential. Offer a variety of drink options, including craft beers, red wines, and non-alcoholic beverages. Consider pairing specific drinks with different meats to enhance the flavors—like pairing rich, smoky brisket with a full-bodied red wine or refreshing craft beer.

Signature Cocktails

If you want to elevate the experience further, consider creating a signature cocktail that matches your event’s theme. This adds a personalized touch and gives guests something unique to enjoy while they savor the delicious smoked meats.

Conclusion

Smoked meat BBQ catering is an art that can transform any event into a memorable feast. By choosing the right catering company, customizing your menu, and engaging your guests, you can create a delightful experience that showcases the rich flavors of smoked meat. With careful planning and attention to detail, your smoked meat feast will leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. Embrace the art of smoked meat catering and enjoy the delicious rewards it brings!

[backfoundation]

Superfoods - 21 Days

Day 16: Sweet Potatoes

Description: A naturally sweet root vegetable packed with vitamins and fiber.

Origin: Central and South America.

How to Use: Roast, mash, bake into fries, or add to soups and stews.

Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber, and vitamins C and B6; supports eye health, immune function, and digestion.

Side Effects: High in carbohydrates; may not be suitable for low-carb diets.

Learn More: Sweet Potato Benefits

[crunchyfoodfze]

Potato Pellets for Businesses in the UAE: Exploring its Versatility and Applications

Potato pellets have emerged as a valuable resource for businesses in the UAE, offering numerous benefits and applications in the food industry. These compressed potato products are made from the right potatoes ingredient, making them a sustainable and cost-effective option.

Benefits of using potato pellets for businesses in the UAE

Sustainability: Potato pellets contribute to a circular economy by utilizing excess potatoes that might otherwise go to waste. This reduces food waste and helps conserve resources.

Cost-effectiveness: Using potato pellets can be more economical than traditional materials, especially in the long run. They often offer a competitive price point without compromising on quality or performance.

Versatility: Potato pellets have diverse applications, making them a versatile resource for businesses in various snacks. These small bite-sized pieces can be made from a mixture of ingredients including flour and grains. Their versatility enhances the value and potential benefits in the snacks arena. As one of the top-ranked food processing companies, we sell potato pellets for businesses in the UAE. We have made a mark with multigrain snacks in the UAE, and have continued to bring quality to the table for various snack manufacturing companies.

Diverse shapes: Businesses are not limited to a single kind of potato pellet. You can order differently shaped potato pellets from bear-shaped to rings, shells, slices, square tubes, twists, windows, and so on. Whatever type of snack your business caters to, we provide excellent potato pellet shapes that complement your requirements and suit every palate.

Applications of potato pellets in the food industry

Potato pellets have found a variety of applications in the food industry. Their nutritional value, texture, and functional properties make them a valuable addition to many products.

The applications of potato pellets in the food industry include:

Sides to the mains: When creating a dish with meat patties, meatballs, and fish cakes, potato pellets can be added as a side dish to complement the entire experience of the meal.

Main commonly used as a quick Snack meal :When it comes to snacking , Potato pellets are one of the most consumed snack for all ages

Flavor enhancer: Potato pellets can add a subtle potato flavor to various food products. They can be used in snacks, soups, and sauces to enhance the overall taste and appeal.

Nutrient-rich ingredient: Potato pellets are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and potassium. They can be added to processed foods to increase their nutritional value and make them better alternatives for consumers.

Potato pellets are a versatile and nutritional ingredient that can be used in a wide range of food products. Their applications in the food industry continue to expand as manufacturers discover new ways to utilize their unique properties.