Navigating the Holidays When Your Adult Child Has Substance Issues

Editor’s note: The names of the parent and the son were changed at their request to protect their identity and privacy.

Dec. 28, 2022 — Lawrence McCarthy, a Texas-based doctor, is looking forward to seeing his 26-year-old son, Sam, during the holidays. Sam, who’s been living in another state and hasn’t been home for many months, has an alcohol use disorder and has also been a frequent user of marijuana. 

McCarthy, who asked that his real name not be used for this article, says that he looks forward to seeing his son, but he has a bottom line. 

“I’d prefer for him to be working his own recovery program and not using. I haven’t seen him for a long time, and I don’t know if he’s still committed to his recovery. But even if he’s using, I’m still willing to see him — as long as he doesn’t use at my house and he’s sober when he’s here.”

McCarthy arrived at this approach after extensive work in a parent recovery group, which not only gave him support but also helped him develop and adhere to boundaries. 

“I don’t know how I would have navigated this situation without the group,” he says. 

Unfortunately, many parents are navigating this difficult situation alone. A new online platform, Recovery Education and Applied Learning (REAL), has been launched to address the needs of these parents. 

“We’re a comprehensive, evidence-based online educational platform that includes a course and resources as well as access to a community where other parents of youngsters with substance abuse issues are asking the same questions,” says REAL’s Chief Medical Officer Eric Collins, MD. 

New Resource

Collins joined REAL because he knew parents needed “access to more information, support, and community as they help their adolescent and young adult child work toward recovery.”

Laurie Dhue, the chief brand officer of REAL, has been in recovery, sober from alcohol and drugs, for 16 years. Prior to her work in the recovery field, Dhue was an award-winning national news anchor who hosted shows on three major cable news networks.

Dhue was still a national news anchor when it became known that she had a substance use problem. 

“The world found out that I had an issue with alcohol and drugs and my anonymity was broken publicly,” she reports. “I thought my life was over and at first; I felt stigma and shame. But telling my story publicly was what eventually led me to leaving the news business and getting into the recovery community full-time and led me to join REAL.”

 Dhue, who is almost 54, says her substance use started in college. 

“I drank alcoholically and abused cocaine until age 37,” she says. “My drinking and drugging got worse after I left college and I drank all the time, not only during the holidays.”

In those days, “there were few resources and no internet. Parents weren’t as aware back then as they are now. But even now, parents are often in the dark and feel isolated and stigmatized. I’m sure this resource could have been very helpful to my parents if such a thing had existed.”

You Are Not Alone

The REAL platform consists of four components:

  • An 18-module course that provides education about aspects of parenting, addiction, and navigating the issues that arise
  • A library of resources that is continually updated and used in the coursework
  • A calendar of events – live weekly workshops in which parents can talk to experts, who provide answers to their questions
  • Community, which enables participants to connect with others in similar situations.

Dhue entered a 12-step sober community, Alcoholics Anonymous. 

“It saved my life. Parents will find comfort on our platform, realizing they’re not the only ones going through this, and find connection and community,” she says. 

The approaches presented on their platform are “consistent and appropriate, and anyone in the 12-step world would appreciate and recognize them,” Collins says. But the platform also uses other approaches that appeal to people who don’t necessary resonate with the 12-step approach, including evidence-based psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

The comprehensive platform also offers information about medications to reduce risk of overdose and to reverse overdoses. 

Pre-Holiday Conversations

“The holidays are a festive time. For people with substance use disorders, holidays can be an excuse to drink and use drugs,” Collins says. Kids coming home from college may continue their heavy alcohol or drug use, while those returning from rehab centers may meet up with former “drinking buddies.”

“Communicate your values and engage in problem solving before the holidays start, since one ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” he advises parents. Initiating these conversations can be challenging, but “children want those conversations, even if they act like they don’t want them.” 

The REAL course encourages parents “to rehearse the conversations with their partners before planning to have a conversation with their kids. You get better at doing things the more times you practice.” It’s a “complex process,” he warns, and kids “might get angry.” But practicing the conversations allows you to deal with their anger as well.

Setting Boundaries

McCarthy says that effective conversations come best from parents with clear boundaries. 

“Do I want to see my son? If so, do I have healthy boundaries to protect me? Am I working a program of recovery to heal my own issues and work with any difficulties that may arise before and during his visit? Do I have a power outside myself to reach out to, and am I part of a group of other parents in similar situations who are finding mental, emotional, and spiritual healing through a 12-step program like Al-Anon?”

If the answer to these questions is “yes,” that doesn’t mean it will be easy, but it’s much easier. 

“I can communicate to my son that I would really like him to come over but that he needs to be sober, respectful, and honest when he’s here,” McCarthy says. 

Boosting Your Child’s Chances of Sobriety

One question that has come up among the families in McCarthy’s recovery group is whether alcohol should be served during the holidays if the recovering child is visiting, or if there should even be alcohol in the house.

“Every family is different,” he observes. “But the most nurturing and supportive thing that I’ve found is not to have alcohol in the house when someone with substance use issues is coming over.”

This may be difficult to accomplish, especially if other guests want to bring alcohol to your meals and also involves setting boundaries. 

“Tell your guests you have an alcohol-free home and they need to respect that.”

He advises avoiding potentially “triggering topics of conversation during family get-togethers, like politics or religion, or triggering topics specific to your family that might evoke unpleasant memories or old conflicts when the recovering adolescent or young adult is around.”

If family members want to engage in these discussions, McCarthy suggests going into another room or area of the house.

If you’re part of a recovery group or REAL, don’t hesitate to reach out. This is a time when parents need to be there for each other for emotional support and practical suggestions.

Clear boundaries, open conversations, and a helpful support system can give you the best chance to have holidays that lead to family bonding and set the groundwork for ongoing healing in the future.

Resources for Parents

REAL

A subscription-based educational platform for parents and families of young adults navigating a substance use disorder starting at $49.95/month.  

Al-Anon Family Groups

A free 12-step program offering in-person and online meetings for family members affected by a loved one’s alcohol use problem.  

Families Anonymous

A free 12-step program offering in-person and online meetings for family members affected by a loved one’s alcohol use problem.  

Smart Recovery Family and Friends

Offers free online and in-person resources and meetings to help family and friends of people with alcohol and substance use disorders to cope with their loved one’s situation.  

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Meet Four CEOs on a Mission to Help Women Feel Healthy

Dec. 28, 2022 — While it’s often the case that great business ideas emerge from personal experiences, when a health issue prompts the development of a company, the results can be incredible for both the founder and customers. Such was the case for these four CEOs who transformed their own personal health journeys into businesses that have helped so many women along the way. Read on for a look at their stories. 

Helping Women Find the Right Birth Control 

In 2020, when Dallas Barnes, 26, launched Reya Health, a personalized birth control matching and tracking app, the contraceptive counseling app was the result of years spent trying several different birth control options and experiencing a host of unwanted (and serious) side effects.

“I developed ovarian cysts, chronic UTIs, and perpetual vaginal bacterial infections from one birth control method I tried,” says Barnes, who is based in London, Ontario, Canada. “The side effects were so debilitating that I had to go to the hospital — twice — and I soon learned that I wasn’t alone in this experience.”

Her goal is to help women pick the right birth control option via her digital platform’s algorithms, something that she says can take an average of 2 years to find, thanks to the plethora of options, from the birth control pill to the IUD, patch, and ring.

“I want women to know that this can be a tricky and frustrating process,” she says. “It’s important to remember to be patient and kind to yourself along the way.”

Ultimately, Barnes hopes her app will help women zero in on the best option for them.

“It’s important to learn what you need and how to advocate for that,” she says.

Creating an Innovative Breastfeeding Pump 

When Samantha Rudolph, 41, a former serial entrepreneur at ESPN who’s now a mom of two kids ages 3 and 7, came up with the idea for a new breastfeeding pump, she was on vacation with her husband — pre-kids.

“You would think I used a pump, hated it, and wanted to create something better, but that’s not my story,” says Rudolph, founder of Babyation, a St. Louis, MO-based company that began selling its pumps 8 months ago.

Instead, it was 2014 when Rudolph stumbled on an article about breast pumps and woke up her husband, an engineer.

“I remember him saying breast pumps aren’t that complicated and fell back asleep,” she says, “but the idea of creating a breast pump that was way different than what was already on the market was something we couldn’t shake.”

The couple began developing plans in 2015 with the goal of offering a pump that minimizes the breast shields on the body, is app controllable, battery-powered and, in the process, the entrepreneurs amassed 27 issue patents on its innovative suction.

“When we developed the product, discretion became our North Star,” she says. “We wanted something incredibly quiet, and we went hard into the science to understand how a baby suckles and gets milk from the body.”

The innovation continues when it comes to the machine’s sound, the comfort (the funnel is made of silicone versus hard plastic), there are fewer parts to clean, and moms pump straight into a cooler.

For Rudolph, who is also a certified lactation counselor, there’s tremendous satisfaction about upping the breast pump game. 

“Every single day I walk into our office, I pinch myself,” she says. “When I walk through our 10,000-square-foot facility and see all the things we designed, innovated and paid for, it’s so satisfying!” 

Paying Close Attention to a Woman’s Vulva 

Ask Therese Clark, founder of Lady Suite, and she’ll tell you that the vulva is the most overlooked part of the women’s body during a gynecological exam. 

Clark, who spent 2 decades developing and pioneering clean skin care lines, also created the “intimate skin care meets sexually wellness” company due to her own personal struggles, including chronically irritated intimate skin compounded by hypothyroidism, or when the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone.

“There was no one to help or to talk to me about this,” she says of the stigma of such issue as vulva skin dryness and frequent yeast infections. “My mom is an OB/GYN delivery nurse and she didn’t talk to me about this, either.”

So, in 2018, Clark, now 46, launched a product line that addresses such issues as itch and odor, ingrown hairs and bumps, dryness, and friction. Interestingly, the demographic of women responding to her collection, which includes an intimate serum and a rejuvenating botanical oil, ranges from women heading into their reproductive years to those entering perimenopause.

“We launched when the millennial movement was strong and women in this demo wanted better care as they became moms,” she says of her Los Angeles-based company. “Also, because grooming is popular with young people, a lot of the time our  products begin when you have an ingrown hair and then range through hormonal changes to stress.”

These days, the plant-based products — with premium earthy-peachy colored packaging that are aimed to be displayed, not hidden in a nightstand — are available via their website, in select retail outlets, and in doctors’ offices. 

Clark remains hopeful that through her company and advocacy, the vulva can finally get its due.

“The vulva is such an important part of our immune system,” she says. “I want women to be more aware of this part of their body. I truly see the vulva as a gateway to our holistic health.”

Warming Whenever You Need It 

Shortly after Kristen Carbone, 40, had a preventative mastectomy with implant reconstruction in 2013, her breasts felt constantly cold. After doing interviews with hundreds of women in the breast cancer community, she learned she wasn’t the only one dealing with this relatively common result of implant reconstruction. 

“After countless failed attempts to jerry-rig something that would warm me, I set my mind on designing a sustainable solution to help women like myself feel physically better,” says this mom of two kids ages 12 and 14, based in Providence, RI. 

Finally, after several years of research and development, Brilliantly Warm, a warming bra insert became available to women, especially those with breast implants. The app-controlled wearable has a simple, but important, premise: It delivers full-body warmth at the press of a button, slips easily into any bra, has three temperature settings, and rests directly against your skin.

What’s really thrilling to Carbone is that the market for a wearable warmer isn’t limited to those who have breast implants.

“After talking to customers, we’ve learned that women already using our patent-pending technology include breastfeeding moms and women who were cold doing activity-specific things like skiing, going to the movies, or even working in a cold office,” she says. 

The need to stay warm has expanded to even more women.

“Almost half of our users tuck Brilliantly Warm into their pants to help with menstrual cramps,” she says. “We plan to be the go-to wearable technology for women from the time they get their first period all the way through menopause.”

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8 Amazing Health Benefits Of Sassafras tea – Health & Healthier

Sassafras is a type of tree found in the North American region. It is also known as Ague Tree, and the scientific species that it belongs to is Sassafras albidum. It is one of the autumnal attractions alongside the maple tree, as the leaves of the sassafras tree also turn a bright yellow and orange during autumn. It also has yellow bright flowers that are about 2 inches big that also bloom in the autumn season. These flowers are grown in clusters and bunches of many.

Sassafras tree has a fragrant smell. It also bears fruits that are dark blue in colour and are as small as half an inch. While this tree has fruits, flowers and leaves that are fragrant and look beautiful, the tree is mainly known for the tea that is produced from its root bark. It was traditionally used by people that are native to the eastern parts of North America for medicinal use.

The root barks are also used today as a base for many root beers. It was and still is one of the main flavouring agents of root beer. However, it was stopped a few years ago, as there were studies that found that it caused liver cancer in rats when it was consumed in high amounts. Since beer is usually drunk in huge quantities, the FDA asked companies to stop using sassafras roots in root beer. There is still no scientific evidence that the effect it has on rats is the same effect it will have on humans, in fact, there are many such commonly used ingredients that are deadly for rats but perfectly safe for human consumption. While the root was taken out of the beer, the sassafras flavour was still used by artificial flavouring agents, to make root beers taste delicious.

Sassafras has always been used for medicinal regions by native people in America. The root of sassafras consists of many nutrients that are released when it is made into tea. The tea of sassafras roots is very easy to make. All it requires is safrole-free dried sassafras roots. Safrole is the oil in sassafras that is said to consist of toxins. Those dried roots are to be added to a pot of water and boiled for 15 to 20 minutes. You can add any other flavouring of spices or sweeteners as per your taste.

How to make sassafras tea?

Sassafras tea is a tasty and fragrant herbal tea often used to reduce inflammation, treat skin conditions, and promote general health. To make sassafras tea, start by boiling 2 cups of water. Once the water is boiling, add 1 tablespoon of sassafras root bark or 1 teaspoon of sassafras leaves to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes then turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the tea to sit for 10 more minutes before straining it into a cup or teapot. You can sweeten the tea with honey or sugar if desired. Enjoy your cup of sassafras tea and all its health benefits!

Health benefits of Sassafras tea

Sassafras tea has a list of health benefits. Some of them are as follows.

Reduces Inflammation

Sassafras tea helps in reducing inflammation. Some amount of inflammation is necessary for the body for its functions, this is known as acute inflammation. However, when it becomes a chronic issue, it can cause various problems such as diabetes, cancer, constant body aches and even arthritis. This tea, when consumed regularly and in proper amounts, can help get rid of the pain caused by inflammation.

Good for Skin

Sassafras tea has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. That is, it consists of such nutrients in it that fight against the bacteria in the body. It is said that when this tea is consumed in an amount that is moderate to low, it can help reduce the consequences of eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and other skin-related issues.

Sassafras tea is a wonderful way to help your skin become healthy. It has many antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and free radical damage in the skin. The tea can also provide an increase in collagen production, which helps keep skin looking plump and youthful. Additionally, the tea contains vitamins C that can help protect the skin from environmental toxins while nourishing it from within. It also contains anti-microbial properties that can fight off bacterial infections that cause breakouts and discoloration of the skin. Drinking a cup of sassafras tea every day can be an effective way to improve the health of your skin over time.

Can Solve Digestive Issues

Since sassafras tea helps reduce inflammation, it also reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, aiding the digestion process. It also helps in regulating bowel movements that result in solving both the issues of diarrhoea as well as constipation.

Can Help Break Fever

Sassafras has been traditionally used to heal fever. Certain fevers are caused due to inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties that exist in sassafras roots fight these inflammation-causing agents and help break fevers that may seem difficult to get through.

Improves Blood Circulation

Sassafras tea has natural blood thinning properties in it. It is anticoagulant in nature which helps the thinning of the blood. This helps prevent blood clot issues in the heart or other heart problems such as heart attack, etc. It is important to talk to your doctor before consuming this though, especially if you are a patient suffering from heart disease.

Helps with Kidney Health

It is believed that sassafras tea is a natural diuretic, that is, it increases the production of urine in the body. This helps the body get rid of excess water and salts. This helps the kidney in the filtration process, easing its function.

May treat high blood pressure

Sassafras tea is known to be a natural remedy that can help treat high blood pressure. The herb has diuretic properties which help reduce high blood pressure by increasing the amount of urine and eliminating excess salt from the body. It has also been known to reduce inflammation, which can help reduce high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream.

Boosts overall immunity

Sassafras tea has several beneficial compounds, such as safrole, tannins, and flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant properties that help fight off free radicals in the body, which can lead to various diseases. Additionally, sassafras tea contains Vitamin C as well as minerals like iron and manganese, all of which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. It also helps reduce inflammation and can be used to treat respiratory problems like bronchitis and asthma. All these benefits combined make sassafras tea a great choice for boosting immunity and overall health.

Are there any side effects of sassafras tea?

Although sassafras tea has numerous health benefits, it also comes with severe side effects. The most important thing about sassafras tea is that it is related to cancer. In fact, The Food And Drug Administration banned the usage of sassafras oil in 1960. There are other side effects of drinking sassafras tea as well.

Can cause cancer

Sassafras tea has been linked to cancer due to a compound called safrole, which is found in sassafras roots. Safrole has been classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and it is thought to cause cancer when consumed in large quantities. Ingesting sassafras tea can also increase the risk of liver damage, sweating and hot flashes as it contains safrole. It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming sassafras tea, as even small amounts may increase the risk of developing cancer over time. If you are considering drinking sassafras tea, it is best to speak to your doctor or healthcare practitioner first or choose a Sassafras tea that is free from safrole.

May react with other medications

Sassafras tea may also have sedative qualities and may interact with sedative medicines such as lorazepam, clonazepam, and diazepam. So, it is always recommended to consult your doctor before introducing this tea in your diet.

Used for making illegal drugs

Isosafrole, a chemical derived from safrole, is used in the manufacture of illegal substances such as MDMA, sometimes known as ecstasy or molly. As a result, the Government does various checks before allowing Sassafras tea to be available in the markets. Under such conditions, various brands tend to remove safrole from the tea.

Precautions

  • Always consult a health practitioner or a doctor before consuming Sassafras tea.
  • Pregnant and lactating moms should consult their respective doctors before consuming Sassafras tea.
  • Children should be kept away from Sassafras tea.
  • People who are under certain types of medications should definitely consult their doctor before consuming this tea
  • Consume very less amount of Sassafras tea, even it is free from safrole. A controlled potion is always the key to a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that the scientific evidence supporting the use of sassafras tea for these conditions is limited. More research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of sassafras tea. There are a few studies conducted that do prove the benefits, however, those studies are done on smaller subjects of people, and it is possible that it may not work for everyone. Additionally, sassafras tea should be used with caution, as it contains a chemical called safrole, which is potentially harmful when consumed in large amounts. There are still studies being conducted on the legitimacy of this, yet, it is safer to consume sassafras roots without safrole that are also available in the market.

FAQ’s

Can you drink sassafras tea everyday?

Sassafras tea is made from the dried root of the sassafras tree and has a unique, earthy taste. It is often used to make a refreshing beverage, but can you drink it everyday? Generally speaking, drinking sassafras tea on a regular basis is considered safe. However, it is important to note that the tea contains safrole, which is known to be toxic in high doses. Therefore, if you choose to drink sassafras tea everyday, it’s best to keep your consumption moderate. Additionally, pregnant women should be especially cautious when consuming this.

Is sassafras tea a stimulant?

Sassafras tea is a herbal tea made from the roots of the sassafras tree. It has a unique taste and aroma, and is often used to make root beer. While it does not contain caffeine like other stimulants, sassafras tea may still provide a slight energy boost. The natural compounds present in the bark of this tree may work as mild stimulants, helping to improve alertness and focus without the jitters.

Is sassafras good for your stomach?

Sassafras has a long history of being used as a folk remedy for various ailments, and it is thought to be particularly beneficial for digestive health. It has traditionally been used to soothe an upset stomach and aid digestion, as well as to promote regularity in the bowels. In addition, sassafras may be helpful in reducing inflammation associated with irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease.

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The Role of Encryption in HIPAA-Compliant eFax and How It Helps Protect Patient Data – Sound Health Doctor

eFax has grown in popularity in recent years. However, users should be aware of the privacy and security concerns when using eFax.

On the other hand, eFax is a secure, digital solution that allows healthcare practitioners to quickly and easily send and receive information. It is commonly used at clinics, hospitals, and other medical institutions, but individuals in different sectors may also utilize it.

Furthermore, eFax is a HIPAA-compliant fax service, as long as consumers have a signed Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with eFax before using their service. eFax controls around 39% of the online fax industry, with the healthcare sector accounting for 60% of its corporate income.

However, in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), eFax that is HIPAA compliant is crucial in preserving the security and confidentiality of electronically protected health information (ePHI).

That being said, let’s get into our main topic since we’ll go over all you need to know about HIPAA-compliant efax, its role in the healthcare industry, how it helps secure patient data, its importance, and much more. So, without further ado, let us begin!

What is Encryption

Source: kaspersky.com

Encryption protects electronic data’s confidentiality, integrity, and security by making it unreadable to anybody who does not have the key. In short, it prevents unauthorized access to information.

There are two encryption types available: symmetric-key encryption and public-key encryption.

In symmetric-key encryption, the same key is used to encrypt and decrypt the data.

This encryption method is relatively quick, but both the sender and the recipient must have access to the same key.

Public-key encryption, on the other hand, employs a pair of keys, one of which is used to encrypt the data and the other to decrypt it.

Although slower than symmetric-key encryption, this method does not need the sender and recipient to share a key. Instead, the sender encrypts the data with the receiver’s public key, and the recipient decrypts it with their private key.

As a result, the main difference between symmetric and public key encryption is that symmetric key encryption utilizes the same private key. In contrast, public key encryption uses both a public and a private key.

Encryption is commonly used to secure electronic communications, such as emails and messaging apps, and to protect the confidentiality of sensitive data, such as financial transactions and personal information.

It is also used to secure data stored on electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphones, to prevent unauthorized access.

In addition to protecting the confidentiality of data, encryption can also help to ensure the integrity of the data by adding a checksum or digital signature to the encrypted data.

This helps to ensure that the data has not been tampered with or altered during transmission.

Overall, encryption is an essential tool for protecting electronic data and ensuring the security of electronic communications.

Ways Encryption Protects Data

Source: techdonut.co.uk

There are several ways encryption may protect data. This section will go through the five ways encryption can protect data.

Meanwhile, we must be aware that encryption scrambles ordinary information, such as text messages or emails, into an unreadable format known as “cipher text.”

This contributes to the confidentiality of digital data kept on computer systems or communicated across the Internet.

Confidentiality

Encryption protects data confidentiality by converting it into a coded form that someone with the appropriate decryption key can only view. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized parties to access or read the data.

Integrity

By adding a checksum or digital signature to the encrypted data, encryption can assist in ensuring data integrity. This ensures that the data was not tampered with or changed during transmission.

Security

Encryption helps to safeguard data by making it unreadable to anybody without the right decryption key. This can assist in protecting sensitive data, such as financial transactions or personal information, from unauthorized access.

Data Protection

Encryption can assist in securing data stored on electronic devices like computers and smartphones by rendering it unreadable to anybody who does not have the correct decryption key. If the device is lost or stolen, this can help to prevent unwanted access to the data.

Network Security

Encryption may also secure data transferred across a network, such as the Internet, by turning it into a coded format that someone with the required decryption key can only view. This can assist in preventing illegal data access during transmission.

The Role of Encryption in HIPAA-complaint eFax

Encryption is a technology that helps protect patient data from unauthorized access. By encrypting all of the data being sent and received, eFax helps ensure that your patients’ information remains safe and private.

Encryption is an essential aspect of HIPAA-compliant eFax systems because it helps protect the confidentiality, integrity, and security of electronically protected health information (ePHI).

When ePHI is transmitted via eFax, it is vulnerable to being intercepted and accessed by unauthorized individuals.

Encryption helps prevent this by converting the ePHI into a code that only someone with the proper decryption key can access.

Furthermore, SSL encryption protects online faxes safe from third-party web cyberattacks and data-privacy breaches. Faxing documents with SSL or secure sockets layer encryption implies that data is sent to a gateway secured by 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) data encryption or even higher.

HIPAA requires that ePHI be encrypted when transmitted over an electronic network or stored on an electronic device. This includes eFax transmissions. By using encryption, HIPAA-compliant eFax systems can help ensure that ePHI is protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.

In addition to encryption, HIPAA-compliant eFax systems should also have other security measures in place to protect ePHI, such as authentication, access controls, and regular security audits.

These measures help to ensure that ePHI is only accessed by authorized individuals and that the system is secure against potential threats.

Importance of Encryption in HIPAA-complaint eFax

Source: updox.com

HIPAA-compliant eFax systems are important in the healthcare industry because they help to ensure the confidentiality and security of protected health information (PHI) when it is transmitted electronically.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires covered companies and their business associates to place appropriate security to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of protected health information (PHI).

One of the measures that can be employed to achieve these standards is encryption. PHI is subject to interception and unauthorized access when sent electronically.

Encrypting data helps to prevent unauthorized parties from reading or accessing the information. This is especially essential when delivering PHI via eFax, as fax communications might be intercepted or read by unauthorized persons.

To be HIPAA-compliant, eFax systems must use encryption that meets the requirements outlined in the HIPAA Security Rule.

This typically means using encryption algorithms certified by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to meet specific standards for data security.

HIPAA Encryption Requirements for Electronic Patient Health Information

Source: letscale.com

According to the HIPAA Security Rule, covered organizations and business associates must employ encryption to secure electronic PHI (ePHI) when data is sent over an electronic communications network. This includes sending ePHI over email, fax, or other electronic means.

HIPAA provides three fundamental standards for the protection of patients and their personal information, and they are;

The privacy rule specifies how protected health information and documentation should be handled.

The breach notification rule outlines how your business must notify authorities and patients following a security breach.

And lastly, the security rule specifies security criteria for the storage and transfer of ePHI.

Several requirements must be met for encryption to be considered adequate for HIPAA purposes:

  • The encryption must use an algorithm certified by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to meet specific standards for data security.
  • The encryption must be applied to ePHI in a manner consistent with the HIPAA Security Rule requirements.
  • The encryption must be implemented to be compatible with the systems and devices that transmit and receive the ePHI.

Conclusion

In summary, encryption plays a critical role in HIPAA-compliant eFax systems. As the healthcare industry increasingly relies on electronic means of communication, it is important to ensure that protected health information (PHI) is transmitted securely and confidentially.

As previously said, it is important to remember that the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) demands that covered organizations and their business associates put in place appropriate measures to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of PHI, and encryption is one of the options available to satisfy these criteria.

In addition, HIPAA-compliant eFax systems must use encryption algorithms that have been certified by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as meeting certain standards for data security. This helps to prevent unauthorized access or interception of PHI as it is transmitted electronically.

Encryption, on the other hand, is essential when delivering PHI via eFax, because fax communications can be intercepted or viewed by unauthorized persons.

Overall, encryption is required for HIPAA compliance in the eFax environment.

It contributes to the confidentiality and security of PHI while also ensuring that covered businesses and business associates are fulfilling their HIPAA legal responsibilities.

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The truth behind ‘gift guilt’ and what to do about it | CNN



CNN
 — 

Planning meals, traveling and shopping for gifts are widely understood holiday stress factors for a lot of people, but receiving presents can also stir up uncomfortable feelings — what’s known as “gift guilt.”

Some may gasp at this notion, but it’s a real phenomenon. You may think you should feel lucky and grateful when given a gift but instead suffer pangs of guilt.

“Telling yourself not to have a feeling doesn’t remove the feeling,” said Dr. Andrea Bonior, a licensed clinical psychologist on the faculty at Georgetown University and host of the mental health podcast “Baggage Check.”

For many people, receiving gifts can be just as stressful — if not more so — than giving them, Bonior said.

First, some don’t feel deserving of a gift. “We might feel guilty when somebody spends time or money on us,” Bonior said, “because deep down, in some situations, we might not think that we’re worthy of it, or like we’re not somehow measuring up to what we should be.”

These people may also struggle with receiving compliments or attention, she added. They feel uncomfortable that someone has gone out of their way to do something nice for them, and grapple with their sense of self-worth.

Others experience guilt because they don’t think they gave as good or as expensive a gift as they received, or they were caught off guard and have nothing to give in return.

“Human nature has this kind of value reciprocity,” said Dr. Laurie Santos, professor of psychology at Yale University and host of “The Happiness Lab” podcast. “We want to reciprocate in kind based on what we get, and gifts can activate a lot of feelings and, in some places, shame that we have about our standing.”

A Baylor University study published in the journal Social Science Research in 2013 explored how humans sometimes punish others for generosity because that kindness led to their own feelings of inadequacy.

“It may be that the generous giver made them look or feel bad,” said Dr. Kyle Irwin, a coresearcher for the study, to Science Daily at the time. “Or they may feel jealous or like they’re not doing enough.”

Gifts can also stir feelings of indebtedness, causing some to think they owe others for doing something nice. You may feel strings are attached, or there’s an expectancy of closeness or intimacy.

“If you grew up in a situation where you weren’t given much attention or affection,” Bonior said, “it feels really strange to suddenly be in a situation where your friends are gifting you these nice things, and it feels really odd. You may feel like you have to make up for this in some way.”

Whatever the reasons behind gift guilt, you can turn those feelings into something positive with these tips from experts.

Be intentional as you go into the holidays. If you feel guilty about receiving gifts, ask yourself why ahead of time and try to reconcile these emotions. “A lot of these folks (feeling gift guilt) are actually very good at taking care of other people,” Bonior said. “They just don’t think that they deserve to be taken care of.”

A useful exercise is to think about the joy you feel when giving someone a gift — and know that others share that same feeling.

However, if you constantly think you’re unworthy, Bonior suggests getting insight into the reasons why. “Think back to your childhood, think back to the messages that you’re telling yourself, think back to the pattern that developed around your self-esteem,” she said. “For some folks, it’s going to be helpful to talk with a professional.”

Try to step away from guilt and realize you can be a good gift recipient, Santos said. So much emphasis is placed on being a good gift giver and not enough on being a good recipient, she said, but making others feel good can be a gift in itself.

“One way to do this is to be really obvious in your gratitude, maybe even specific in your gratitude,” she said. “When you actually use the gift, check in with the person and tell them you’re using it and to be thankful, even years later.”

Santos said she continues to thank her father and stepmother for a Dutch oven they gave her a few years ago, for example, snapping a picture when she uses it and sending it to them as a token of appreciation.

“Maybe somebody spent a little bit extra on you or you didn’t give something in return, but the fact that you can show your gratitude is incredibly powerful,” she added. “It makes the gift giver feel like they’ve done something good.” Their gift to you becomes one you can give back.

Many people are experiencing tough financial times now and can’t reciprocate the way they want to or have in the past.

“We’re not going to be the perfect gift givers every time,” Santos said, “and it’s OK to give ourselves some grace if (a present) doesn’t feel up to the level that we would have wished for given certain circumstances.”

You may not have the time either. The holidays can creep up on you, and you may feel overwhelmed. The key is to remember that people are giving gifts “out of the fact that they really care about you,” she said.

Let go of the superficial aspects around gift giving and remember why you’re doing it. “Ultimately, gift giving is about honoring connection. It’s about giving joy. It’s about being able to nourish our relationships,” Bonior said. “The more it gets to be performing, the less meaning it has.”

Giving gifts is about building relationships and strengthening your connections with loved ones.

Focusing too much on reciprocal gift giving can be limiting, she added. “No relationship has to be always perfectly symmetrically balanced all the time,” Bonior said. “Understand that this holiday gift is just one little part of your friendship. It doesn’t have to represent your entire friendship.”

The commercialism of the holidays can pressure us into placing more emphasis on material things or trying to buy the “perfect” gift. But they should be a time of kindness, compassion and gratitude, so make a conscious decision to focus on good things and enjoy them, the experts said.

“The key is to remember that while we can’t control what gifts we get, we can control how we react this holiday season,” Santos said. “We can take time to regulate any negative emotions over the holiday and to be intentional about what we really want to get out of gift giving and all our interactions — a sense of connection and joy.”

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Benefits Of Bilberry For Weight Loss – Health & Healthier

Bilberry is a type of berry that is very similar to blueberries. It is, however, a little darker than blueberries and smaller in size too. It has its origins based in Europe but it is now found in some Asian countries as well. They are also available in North America. Despite their availability in these continents, they are still often referred to as “European Blueberries” in some of these places. Other common names for this fruit include whortleberry and huckleberry.

The name bilberry is derived from the Danish word bollebar, which roughly translated to “dark berry”. Bilberry is used in Europe for a variety of reasons, but mainly for jams, jellies, spreads and sauces. Berries tend to have a short shelf life, and hence jams are made of berries to preserve them for longer. They are also baked into pies for certain occasions. Certain sources also claim that Bilberries are used in certain rural European regions of France to be specific, for making alcohol.

Bilberries: Does it help in Weight Loss?

Bilberries may help with weight loss. In addition to providing many other health benefits, bilberry extracts can be taken as a supplement or eaten fresh as part of a healthy weight-loss diet. Bilberries contain powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins which can help fight obesity and assist with weight loss. Eating bilberries can help boost metabolism, suppress appetite, reduce fat absorption, increase fat burning and decrease sugar cravings. It also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and provides energy for exercise. All these bilberry benefits make them an ideal choice for anyone looking to lose weight naturally and safely. Furthermore, the high fiber content of bilberries helps aid digestion, improve gut flora and support healthy overall digestion for better nutrient absorption. With all these amazing benefits, it’s no wonder that bilberries are becoming increasingly popular as a natural weight-loss solution!

How Bilberry benefits weight loss?

Some historians claim to believe that bilberries were used in traditional medicines as an ingredient, however, there is no source to back that up. Berries were one of the common fruits and ingredients used in ancient medicine, as they had easy availability, the shrubs were easier to locate, and they did not end up taking up a lot of space, so people grew a lot of them. So, it may be true that berries were used as one of the ingredients, but there is no certainty that it was bilberry.

There is still research being done on bilberries, however, some people do believe that it possesses several health benefits. One of the claims they also make is that it aids and helps with weight loss. However, some studies around bilberries are scientifically backed. They have the following results:

High fibre

Bilberries are high in fiber – they consist of 4gm of fibre in just one cup of berries, which is double the amount that is found in an average medium-sized peach. Fibre helps the digestive process in the body and helps it release waste effectively. Constipation is said to be one of the reasons for weight gain and fluctuation. Hence, doctors do recommend fruits and leafy vegetables in your diet as they are highly fibrous, and bilberry can be a tasty alternative to getting your fibre in. Moreover, fibre-rich foods also help in reducing appetite which further helps in weight loss.

High water content

It is also high in water content, similar to blueberries, the number is 85%. Any food that has high water content helps in weight loss indirectly. They are extremely low in calories but provide a good amount of magnesium, hydration, vitamins and fibre. Bilberries are rich in antioxidants. They help the body prevent diseases and infections by building up a strong immune system. They protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause harm to the body. They also contain anthocyanins, which is the element that is responsible for most if not all the health benefits that any berries possess.

Absorbs carbs

Bilberries are also said to be effective in lowering blood sugar for type 2 diabetes. There were studies done that concluded that when the subject consumed bilberries or included those in their diet, it would result in their bodies absorbing carbs better, which helps lower the blood sugar level, and releasing insulin faster, the chemical that helps glucose dissolve in the body.

Diabetes is also one of the reasons for weight gain and the development of body fat. It happens because, in this condition, it becomes difficult for the body to break down sugar and glucose parts. These then just get transferred to fat and stay in the body.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Bilberries also contain anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, which both boost weight loss. They instigate muscle mass growth, instead of fat growth. This automatically helps reduce the fat content in the body mass. Bilberries also help the body quickly convert the fats in the body into energy, this burns out the fat and helps keep the body active and fit.

Other health benefits of bilberry

Anti-inflammatory properties

Bilberry, a close relative of blueberries, has long been used as a natural remedy to reduce inflammation. It contains high levels of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that help protect cells against damage and reduce inflammation. Research indicates that bilberry extract may reduce the inflammatory response in some conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. Additionally, bilberry is believed to help with certain skin conditions like eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies also suggest it can improve blood circulation, which in turn helps reduce swelling caused by inflammation. Bilberry can be taken in supplement form or enjoyed as part of your diet for its many health benefits.

Prevents the risk of developing diabetes

Bilberry is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries to improve blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that bilberry can help reduce glucose absorption and increase insulin sensitivity in the body. It is also known to lower the amount of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in the blood, which are risk factors for diabetes. Additionally, bilberry contains anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative damage caused by high blood sugar levels. Lastly, bilberry helps reduce inflammation in the body, which is an important factor when it comes to managing diabetes. By promoting healthy blood sugar levels, bilberry can be an effective tool for those looking to manage their diabetes naturally.

Great for your eyes

Bilberries are a type of berry that is known to be highly beneficial for eyesight. They are packed with powerful antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can help protect your eyes from damage caused by free radicals and other environmental factors. Bilberries can also reduce inflammation, which is a major cause of vision problems like macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Their high levels of anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid, can protect the delicate cells in your eyes from free radical damage, helping to keep your vision healthy for longer. Eating bilberries or drinking their juice on a regular basis may also improve night vision, so it’s worth adding them to your diet if you have difficulty seeing at night. They’re an easy addition to smoothies or porridge, or you can mix them into yogurt or oatmeal for added nutrition.

Contains Vitamin C

Vitamin C present in bilberry helps us in a number of ways. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for our body and plays an important role in maintaining good health. It helps to boost our immunity, reduce inflammation and fight against illnesses. Vitamin C is also known to improve vision and promote healthy skin. Additionally, it helps with iron absorption and supports the formation of collagen which maintains the structure of various tissues in our body. Bilberry is one of the best natural sources of vitamin C, so consuming it regularly can provide many health benefits.

May prevent cancer

Bilberry has been shown to be an effective way of preventing cancer due to its antioxidant content. It can reduce the risk of cell damage, which is a major factor in the formation of cancer cells. Studies have also shown that bilberry can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are both linked to cancer development. Furthermore, bilberry is known to block the growth of certain types of cancer cells, helping to reduce the risk of them developing further. Additionally, it contains compounds such as quercetin, ellagic acid and anthocyanins which have been found to inhibit cancer cell growth by reducing the production of certain enzymes such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Bilberry’s anti-cancer properties make it an excellent dietary choice for those looking to reduce their risk for this life-threatening.

Good for your heart

Bilberry contains powerful antioxidants that can help protect your heart from the damage caused by free radicals. In addition, bilberry contains anthocyanins which are natural compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels. Furthermore, bilberry can also improve circulation throughout the body, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart attack. It has also been found to reduce blood pressure, helping keep your heart healthy and functioning properly. With all of these benefits, there is no doubt that bilberry can be an important part of maintaining a healthy heart.

How to consume bilberry?

Bilberries can be eaten fresh, cooked, juiced, added to smoothies, or made into jams and jellies. Fresh bilberries can be eaten as-is or mixed with yogurt or cereal for breakfast. Cooked bilberries are delicious when used in pies and other baked goods. Juicing bilberries is a great way to get all of their powerful antioxidants and vitamins. Smoothies are also a great way to take advantage of the benefits that bilberries provide and they’re easy to make with fresh berries, ice cubes, yogurt, or milk and any other desired ingredients. Finally, jams and jellies are an excellent way to enjoy the sweet flavor of this berry without having to worry about it going bad quickly. Nowadays, bilberry supplements are also available in the market in the form of tablets that can be directly consumed. But make sure to always consult your doctor before introducing bilberry into your diet. Whichever way you choose to enjoy bilberries, you’ll be sure to reap its many health benefits.

Are there any side effects of consuming bilberry?

Although there are no proven side effects of consuming bilberry it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional or a doctor before consuming bilberry.

  • Pregnant women and lactating moms should definitely consult their doctors before consuming bilberries
  • If you are under any sort of medication, always consult your doctor before consuming bilberry supplements
  • If you are allergic to any of the compounds present in bilberry, make sure to avoid it
  • Bilberry or bilberry supplements are never recommended for children.

Conclusion

While bilberry may have some potential health benefits, there is no scientific evidence to support its use for weight loss. There are no foods or supplements that have been proven to cause weight loss without the help of a healthy diet and regular exercise. Weight loss is primarily achieved by creating a calorie deficit, which means consuming fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight.

To lose weight, it is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It is also important to engage in regular physical activity to burn calories and boost metabolism. In addition, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated can also support weight loss efforts.

While bilberry may be a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet, it should not be relied upon as a weight loss aid. If you are trying to lose weight, focus on making lifestyle changes that will support your weight loss goals, rather than seeking out supplements or other quick fixes. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized advice and support.

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Experts say the ‘cycle syncing’ workout trend may not be all it’s cracked up to be | CNN

Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this commentary are solely those of the writers. CNN is showcasing the work of The Conversation, a collaboration between journalists and academics to provide news analysis and commentary. The content is produced solely by The Conversation.



The Conversation
 — 

If you’re someone who has to deal with a period regularly, you’re probably all too familiar with just how much your energy levels can change throughout your cycle thanks to hormonal fluctuations. Not only can this sometimes make even the simplest daily tasks challenging, it can make it even harder to stay motivated to keep fit and stick to your regular workout routine, especially when noticing a decline in your performance.

But, according to some popular information on social media, a technique called “cycle syncing” may help you avoid feeling this way.

READ MORE: From sharp butt pains to period poos: 5 lesser-known menstrual cycle symptoms

The premise of cycle syncing is relatively simple. Instead of doing the same type of workouts throughout the month, you instead tailor your workouts according to the current phase of your menstrual cycle. Some women also go a step further and tailor their diet to each phase as well. The claim is that, by doing so, it can help “balance” your hormones — which in turn may lead to a range of health benefits, including improved energy levels, fewer PMS symptoms and better health overall.

But while evidence does show that certain phases of your menstrual cycle may be optimal for different types of exercise, there’s currently no evidence showing cycle syncing has any benefits beyond making it easier to keep fit. Not to mention that actually managing to execute cycle syncing properly may be easier said than done.

The menstrual cycle can be split into four phases: menses, follicular, luteal and pre-menses. The concentration of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone change in each phase.

During the menses phase (your period), estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest levels. But as you move into the follicular phase, estrogen begins to increase. In the luteal phase, which immediately follows, progesterone concentrations also begins to increase. Both hormones reach their peak near the end of the luteal phase, before dropping dramatically during the pre-menstrual phase (days 25-28 of the average cycle).

READ MORE: The US lacks adequate education around puberty and menstruation for young people

Research shows that thanks to these hormones, certain phases of your menstrual cycle are optimized for different types of exercise.

For instance, the luteal phase may be the perfect time for strength training thanks to the boost in both estrogen and progesterone. Research shows there are noticeable increases in strength and endurance during this phase. Energy expenditure (calories burned) and energy intake are also greater during the luteal phase, alongside a slight decrease in body mass. You may also find you feel more energetic and capable of exercise during this phase. The hormone concentrations in the luteal phase may also promote the greatest degree of muscle change.

The folicular phase also shows some increases in strength, energy expenditure and energy intake — albeit smaller.

But when progesterone and estrogen are at their lowest levels during your period (menses phase), you’re likely to see fewer changes when it comes to building muscle. There’s also a greater chance that you will feel fatigued due to low hormone levels, alongside the loss of menstrual blood. This may be a good time to consider adjusting your training, focusing on lower-intensity exercises (such as yoga) and prioritizing your recovery.

READ MORE: Exercising during pregnancy: what to consider

So based on the way hormones change during each phase of the menstrual cycle, if you’re looking to improve strength and fitness you may well want to plan your most intense workouts for the follicular and luteal phases to achieve the greatest gains.

This all seems fantastic, and you may well be wondering why more women are not following this trend. But the answer is that it may all be too good to be true.

While the responses reported do take place, actually putting this all into practice is easier said than done. First, most research on the menstrual cycle’s impact on fitness assume the cycle has a regular pattern of 28 days. But 46% of women have cycle lengths that fluctuate by around seven days — with a further 20% exhibiting fluctuations of up to 14 days. This means a regular cycle varies for each person.

READ MORE: Going home for the holidays? How to navigate conflict and deal with difficult people

The second key assumption is that the responses of progesterone and estrogen, which drive the changes in fitness are constant. But this is often not the case, as both estrogen and progesterone exhibit large variations both between cycles and each person. Some women may also lack estrogen and progesterone due to certain health conditions. These responses make it difficult to track the phases of the cycle precisely through monitoring of hormones alone — and make syncing accurately also very difficult.

So while the idea of syncing your menstrual cycle with your workouts seems logical, the outcomes each person sees are likely to vary. But if you do want to give it a try, menstrual tracking apps — alongside the use of ovulation test strips and temperature monitoring — can help give you a good idea of what stage in your menstrual cycle you’re at.

This article is part of Quarter Life, a series about issues affecting those of us in our twenties and thirties. From the challenges of beginning a career and taking care of our mental health, to the excitement of starting a family, adopting a pet or just making friends as an adult. The articles in this series explore the questions and bring answers as we navigate this turbulent period of life.

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Jaitun oil and its health benefits – Health & Healthier

Jaitun is the Hindi name for olive. Olives are native to the regions around the Mediterranean Sea. Olive shrubs are also found in South Africa, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. Its scientific name is Olea europaea, which translates to “European Olive” in Latin. Olive is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. It is usually brined as raw olives by themselves are extremely bitter and difficult to consume. This process also helps in storing the fruit for longer.

There are two distinct colors of olives – black and green. Black olives are smaller in size, and consist of less sodium, making them less salty than green olives. Green olives are bigger, and have more sodium, giving them a stronger flavor as compared to black olives. Their harvesting time also varies.

Black olives are green in color when they are raw and unripened. These unripened black and green olives are used to make olive oil. These olives however are not supposed to be completely raw, as raw olives have a very bitter and almost pungent taste that will carry in the oil.

The oil extraction process then is pretty simple. The fruits are pressed and crushed to extract the fats from them which makes the oil. Most high-quality olive oils are made by crushing these olives only once, but some low-quality ones process the olives multiple times.

Several types of olive oils are available in the market as well, they include extra virgin olive oil, virgin olive oil, refined olive oil and olive pomace oil.

Extra virgin olive oil is the purest form of olive oil. “Virgin” when talking about oil refers to the oil that is extracted by pressing the respective fruit to extract the fat that makes the oil. In olive oil, it is considered to be an extra virgin when the oil is extracted from the very first press itself. After the oil is produced, it is tested and checked for free acidity. If the acidity is less than 0.8%, then it is considered to be extra virgin. If the acidity is between 0.8% to 2.0%, then the oil is virgin oil. These oils can be consumed uncooked in salads as dressings, or just topped on any dish for a tinge of flavor.

Refined oil is when there are solvents added to the fruit to extract the oil from it. And olive pomace oil is the oil extracted from the second or more pressings of olive. These two do not contain as many benefits as extra virgin and virgin olive oil do. They are mostly used in cooking and baking specifically as it does not have any taste, and have a higher smoking point, making them ideal for hot ovens and sweet baked goods.

Health Benefits of Jaitun /Olive Oil/ Jaitun ka tel

Heart Health

Jaitun oil has been proven to improve heart health drastically as compared to other fat alternatives. According to a study, replacing other oil and oil consisting ingredients, like mayonnaise, butter, etc with olive oil reduced the chances of getting heart problems by 5% to 7%. Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which it contains around 85% of, which have been shown to help lower harmful cholesterol, or bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Weight Loss

As mentioned earlier, jaitun oil consists of monounsaturated fats, which also makes it good for heart health. This same ingredient helps people feel full or gives them the feeling of satiety. This helps prevent the overconsumption of food and other fats and assists in weight loss. Olive oil may have similar amounts of fats as other oils, but it also provides many other nutritional benefits that make it a better alternative.

Diabetes management

Jaitun oil consists mostly of fats, saturated fats and vitamins E and K. It has no amounts of sugar content at all. This along with the nutrients it consists of helps improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes and it may also reduce the risk of developing diabetes. It is a good fat alternative for patients with type 2 diabetes. It also consists of antioxidants, that help reduce the stress that is caused by diabetes.

Anti-inflammatory

Jaitun oil contains antioxidants that help prevent inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can lead to more significant problems such as cancer, diabetes, arthritis, etc. The oleic acid that is present in olive oil is one of the components that help reduce inflammatory markers as well.

Skin Health

Jaitun oil is often used as a natural moisturizer for the skin and may help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It may also have antioxidant properties that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. In India, it is also used to massage children at a very young age.

May prevent cancer

Olive oil is known for its health benefits, and one of the most important is preventing cancer. Recent studies have shown that consuming olive oil may decrease the risk of colon and bowel cancer.

The active ingredient in olive oil, Oleocanthal, has an anti-inflammatory effect on cells which reduces their ability to replicate and become cancerous. This helps reduce the risk of developing cancer in the body. Additionally, Oleocanthal can help reduce the growth of existing tumors and even stop them from spreading further.

Research has also found that those who consume more olive oil are at a lower risk of developing certain types of cancers such as prostate and breast cancer. All these findings suggest that using olive oil regularly can be beneficial in preventing cancer and maintaining good health overall.

Maintains blood pressure

The polyphenols found in jaitun ka tel, including oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, can help reduce diastolic and systolic pressure. Nitric acid is also produced when consuming olive oil, which helps relax the walls of the arteries to allow for better blood flow. Additionally, the antioxidants found in olive oil help reduce inflammation in the body, which can also aid in keeping blood pressure under control.

Furthermore, research has shown that regular consumption of olive oil can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and prevent the hardening of arteries due to plaque buildup; both of these factors can significantly affect your blood pressure. All in all, the consumption of olive oil can be helpful for those looking to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

May prevent depression and anxiety

Olive oil is an incredible source of monounsaturates and polyunsaturates, which help to prevent depression and anxiety by reducing oxidative stress. It also helps to regulate sugar levels in the body, avoiding any sudden spikes in sugar that could lead to mood swings.

This is because of the natural fatty acids that are found in olive oil, which help to maintain balance and avoid any sudden changes in blood sugar levels. In addition, olive oil has been found to be beneficial for mental health due to its anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce inflammation from stress hormones and improve overall mood. Finally, it may also be beneficial for those suffering from depression or anxiety as its omega-3 fatty acids can help to balance neurotransmitters in the brain which are responsible for regulating mood.

Packed up with antioxidants

Extra virgin jaitun oil is an excellent source of antioxidants and provides many health benefits. The antioxidants present in jaitun oil help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as some cancers, heart disease, and diabetes. It is especially rich in two major antioxidants, Vitamin E and Vitamin K. Vitamin E helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, while Vitamin K helps keep bones strong and healthy. Additionally, olive oil may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, which can lead to a variety of chronic illnesses. Overall, consuming extra virgin olive oil on a regular basis can provide numerous health benefits due to its high antioxidant content.

May treat Alzheimer’s disease

Olive oil has recently been found to potentially have a positive impact on Alzheimer’s disease, with studies showing that it may help reduce the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. This is an important factor in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s, as these plaques are known to be associated with mental decline and memory loss. Additionally, olive oil contains polyphenols which can help protect neurons in the brain from damage and inflammation, while also improving communication between them. It has also been found to improve the functioning of mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy within cells and are notably damaged in people with Alzheimer’s. Taken together, these findings suggest that consuming olive oil may be beneficial for those suffering from this disease.

Conclusion

It’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of jaitun oil and to determine the appropriate dosage and duration of use. As with any dietary supplement or natural remedy, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before using jaitun oil.

There is also a risk of allergy involved, and some people also tend to take longer to adjust to newer things, hence, it is better to start out small and then slowly incorporate this oil into your diet. It is also to note that the quality of the oil that you are buying will also affect the benefits you receive for it.

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Pandemic fueled alcohol abuse, especially among women, but there are treatment options | CNN

Editor’s Note: In the final two episodes of “This Is Life With Lisa Ling,” the series explores alcoholism in America (at 9 p.m. ET Sunday) and interracial marriages (at 10 p.m. ET Sunday).



CNN
 — 

Brook was 34 years old when her use of alcohol escalated, a way of coping with a breast cancer diagnosis.

“I just decided I’m not gonna go through this straight,” she told Lisa Lang in an episode of “This Is Life With Lisa Ling,” airing at 9 p.m. ET Sunday on CNN.

“I would drink before I went to my chemo sessions. It became more and more of a coping mechanism,” said Brook, who did not want to use her last name.

Brook survived the bout with cancer but says she became dependent on alcohol — and the pandemic only made it worse.

“When Covid started and I was home, I started drinking more and more and more,” said Brook, now 42. “I started not being able to eat, I started throwing up more often, and then I started throwing up blood.”

She recently ended up in the hospital, diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and a bad bleed from ulcers, which doctors said could take her life if not quickly treated.

“When they were talking to me afterwards, they said, ‘If you keep going like this, you’ll be dead in a year,’ ” Brook told Ling.

Alcohol use disorder is defined as compulsively using alcohol despite negative consequences on relationships and one’s ability to function at work, school or in the community. Over time, excessive alcohol use may even rewire the brain, making booze as desirable as natural rewards such as food or sex, experts say.

Researchers at University of California, Los Angeles showed pictures of alcoholic drinks to people who are and are not addicted while scanning their brains. Regions of the brain associated with craving, pleasure and reward lit up significantly more in those with an alcohol use disorder.

“It’s much more of a medical and brain disease than we initially thought,” Lara Ray, a clinical psychologist who runs the UCLA Addictions Lab, told Ling.

In addition, just one pint of beer or average glass of wine a day may begin to shrink the overall volume of the brain. The brains of nondrinkers who began consuming an average of one alcohol unit a day showed the equivalent of half a year of aging, according to a study published in March.

The damage worsens as the number of daily drinks rises, the study found — drinking four alcohol units a day aged a person’s brain by more than 10 years.

Alcohol use disorder is a growing problem in the United States, which experts say has been enhanced by the pandemic, especially among women.

“Last year, I took care of two women who were in their early 20s who had cirrhosis and needed liver transplants, and I’ve never seen that before in my entire career,” Dr. James Burton, medical director of liver transplantation at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Aurora, told Ling.

A recent study found a significant increase in alcohol-associated liver disease and a 15% higher rate of waiting lists and subsequent liver transplants between 2020 and 2021 — the greatest increase occurred in young adults.

Since the pandemic’s onset, statistics show an overall 14% increase in the number of drinking days per month, but a “41% increase in heavy drinking days among women,” Dr. Sarah Wakeman, medical director of the Substance Use Disorders Initiative at Massachusetts General Hospital, told CNN in January.

Why? Pre-pandemic mom wine culture, which “normalized and even glorified” drinking, is partly to blame, said Dr. Leena Mittal, chief of the women’s mental health division in the department of psychiatry at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

In addition, “studies have shown the complexities of balancing home, work and caregiving responsibilities during the pandemic have fallen disproportionately on women,” Mittal said earlier.

Women are especially sensitive to the effects of alcohol, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol-related problems appear sooner and at lower drinking levels than in men, said the institute, part of the US National Institutes of Health.

Women are more susceptible to alcohol-related brain damage and heart disease than men, and studies show women who have one drink a day increase their risk of breast cancer by 5% to 9% compared with those who abstain.

Pandemic lockdowns also forced many people to live and work from home — sometimes alone. A July study found drinking alone during adolescence and young adulthood can strongly increase the risk for alcohol abuse later in life, especially if you are a woman.

Victoria, who also did not want to use her last name, told Ling she began drinking as a teenager. Now 55, she still “can’t control it. It’s like a tension that builds up. And so then when I do drink, it’s like, ‘Ah! I’m drinking,’ you know, so it’s way too much, way too fast.”

Victoria says she continues to crave alcohol but goes regularly to support meetings for addiction recovery after moving in with her mother during the pandemic.

Binge drinking — defined as more than four drinks for women and five for men within a few hours — is on the rise. According to a study published in June, even older people who consider themselves moderate users of alcohol are downing multiple drinks in one sitting.

People who binged were about five times more likely to experience numerous alcohol problems, including injuries, emotional or psychological issues, and alcohol dependence at work or school or while caring for children, the study found.

“What this means is that an individual whose total consumption is seven drinks on Saturday night presents a greater risk profile than someone whose total consumption is a daily drink with dinner, even though their average drinking level is the same,” study coauthor Charles Holahan, professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, told CNN previously.

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved only three drugs designed to reduce alcohol use since 1951: disulfiram, which causes headaches, nausea and vomiting when mixed with alcohol; acamprosate, which works on the reward centers of the brain to reduce alcohol cravings; and naltrexone, which reduces cravings and appears to help with heavy drinking.

There is help. Find it here

  • The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has a tool called the NIAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator that “helps adults find alcohol treatment for themselves or an adult loved one.” For teens, the institute recommends these resources.
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a free, confidential National Helpline active 24/7/ 365 days a year to provide information and treatment referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups and community-based organizations: 800-662-HELP (4357) and 800-487-4889 (TTY option).
  • All three have significant side effects that can deter people from using them consistently.

    Researchers continue to experiment with various drugs to see if they can help cure cravings without major side effects. While not FDA-approved, the anticonvulsant drug topiramate has shown promise in some clinical trials but may affect cognition and memory. Other anticonvulsant drugs, such as zonisamide and gabapentin, and a smoking cessation drug called varenicline have shown mixed results.

    At Ray’s lab at UCLA, small clinical trials have found promising results from the neuromodulator ibudilast, which hindered cravings and reduced the odds of heavy drinking for some people by 45%.

    For Billy Flores, 45, the change happened quickly.

    “In the first two days, I was upset in the stomach, but by the third day I was on it, I was off of alcohol, which is pretty amazing I thought,” he told Ling about using ibudilast.

    Bill has struggled with alcohol but says he has found hope with a clinical trial.

    Additional studies are needed to see if the benefits hold true for larger populations.

    In the meantime, there are gold standard treatments for alcohol use disorder that don’t involve medications. Those include Alcoholics Anonymous and Self-Management and Recovery Training 12-step programs, cognitive behavioral treatments and mindfulness-based approaches.

    A large 2006 clinical trial found behavioral interventions can be as effective as drugs — in fact, most of the medication clinical trials done to date have also included some form of social or behavioral treatment in combination with drugs.

    Having support is critical to keeping a positive mindset that will ultimately win the battle with alcohol, experts say.

    Brook agrees.

    “When I was doing my therapy intake for rehab, one of the questions was, ‘What made you decide to do this?’ And I said, ‘I’m better than this,’ ” she told Ling.

    “I still like to think that even with the relapses, I’m gonna still be that person who gets right back up and tries again.”

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    Why Do Cervical Cancer Rates Keep Rising?

    More than 200 strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) have been identified, and about 40 of them can cause cancer, including cervical, penile, oral, vaginal, vulvar and anal cancer. Of these, cervical cancer is the most common type of HPV-related cancer in the U.S. Some strains are also responsible for genital warts.1

    Ninety percent of HPV infections resolve on their own without treatment, as a well-functioning immune system will keep the virus in check. In rare cases, however, infection with a high-risk HPV that remains untreated and unchecked may turn into cancer.

    In the U.S., 3% of all cancers in women and 2% of cancers in men are related to untreated chronic HPV infection.2 Because HPV infection rarely produces symptoms until it has turned cancerous, women are advised to get a Pap smear at least once every three to five years, which will identify the presence of HPV.

    HPV Vax Has Failed Miserably to Reduce Cervical Cancer Rates

    In 2006, the first HPV vaccine, Gardasil, was licensed; first in Europe in February,3 followed by the U.S. that June.4 The vaccine was hailed as a breakthrough that would slash cervical cancer rates, but in the real world, it has largely failed to deliver.

    When Gardasil was first introduced, HPV researcher Dr. Diane Harper predicted it would take 60 years of vaccinating at least 70% of all 11-year-old girls to reduce cervical cancer rates in the U.S., due to the country’s highly successful Pap testing.

    Now, almost 17 years after the vaccine was introduced, there is a “troubling spike” in cervical cancer rates,5 despite vaccination rates as high as 80%6 (although rates vary widely between gender and ethnic groups. In 2019, 73% of female teenagers had received one dose and 57% had received both doses in the series).7 As reported in the December 2022 issue of the International Journal of Gynecological Cancer:8

    “Over the last 18 years [2001 through 2018], 29,715 women were diagnosed with distant stage cervical carcinoma … When examining the trends over time, there has been an annual increase in distant stage cervical cancer at a rate of 1.3% per year. The largest increase is seen in cervical adenocarcinoma with an average annual percent change of 2.9%.”

    Cancers Associated With Vaccine Strains Have Declined

    Despite lingering questions about its effectiveness, the medical establishment still hails the HPV vaccine as a success, as cervical cancers associated with the vaccine strains have in fact decreased.

    Since 2006, cancers associated with the four HPV strains included in the original quadrivalent vaccine have declined by 88% among 14- to 19-year-olds and 81% among women aged 20 to 24.9 Aside from the fact that only 14 cases of cervical cancer a year were occurring in females aged 15 to 19 before the vaccine10 (meaning an 88% drop isn’t all that impressive), the drop may not be all due to the vaccine, as rates have also declined among unvaccinated women.

    What’s more, when looking at HPV-related cancers in general, without regard for strain, rates have steadily increased since the vaccine’s introduction. As reported by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) in July 2021,11 “HPV-related cancers have increased significantly in the past 15 years12 — in 2015, 43,000 people developed an HPV-related cancer compared to 30,000 in 1999.”

    Oral and anal cancers related to HPV infection have also increased. Whereas cervical cancer used to be the most prevalent HPV-associated cancer, oral cancers are now the most common.13

    HPV Vaccine Increases Risk of Cancer From Other HPVs

    The primary cause for this continued rise appears to be because cancers associated with non-vaccine strains are going up. Indeed, new evidence suggests HPV vaccination makes women more susceptible than their nonvaccinated peers to HPV genotypes not covered by the vaccine.14 So, essentially, women who got the vaccine have just traded one risk for another. As reported by Medscape:15

    “The data come from the Costa Rica HPV Vaccine Trial,16 which involved more than 10,000 women aged 18-25 years. The HPV vaccine used in the trial was Cervarix, from GlaxoSmith Kline. It covers the two leading causes of cervical cancer, HPV 16 and 18, and provides partial protection against three other genotypes.

    After a follow-up of 11 years, among vaccinated women, there was an excess of precancerous cervical lesions caused by genotypes not included in the vaccine, resulting in negative vaccine efficacy for those HPV variants …

    The results are likely the first evidence to date of ‘clinical unmasking’ with HPV vaccination, meaning that protection against the strains covered by the vaccine leaves women more prone to attack from other carcinogenic HPV variants.

    This phenomenon ‘could attenuate long-term reductions in high-grade disease following successful implementation of HPV vaccination programs,’ the investigators comment.

    The take-home message from the trial is that ‘we have to be careful,’ said Marc Steben, MD, co-president of HPV Global Action and a professor in the University of Montreal’s School of Public Health.”

    The Replacement Phenomenon

    This “replacement phenomenon” is precisely what happened with the pneumococcal vaccine, which is why vaccine companies were forced to keep adding new strains to the vaccine. The same thing is now happening with the HPV vaccine.

    HPV16 and HPV18 have historically been responsible for about 70% of cervical cancer cases,17 which is why these two strains, plus HPV6 and HPV11, were included in the original quadrivalent Gardasil vaccine released in 2006.

    In December 2014, Gardasil was updated to include five additional strains — HPV31, 33, 45, 52 and 58 — for a total of nine.18 Overall, these nine HPVs are responsible for the vast majority of HPV-related cancers, including cervical, throat and anal cancers, as well as most genital warts. (Cervarix, another HPV vaccine, is available in Europe and other parts of the world, but since 2017, Gardasil®9 is the only HPV vaccine approved for use in the U.S.)

    Serious Adverse Reactions Are Still Downplayed

    While the medical establishment maintains that Gardasil is safe and has few side effects, a significant number of young girls and boys have been seriously injured over the years. Serious adverse reactions reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) in relation to Gardasil include but are not limited to the following:19

    Anaphylaxis

    Guillain-Barre Syndrome

    Transverse myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord)

    Pancreatitis

    Venous thromboembolic events (blood clots)

    Autoimmune initiated motor neuron disease (a neurodegenerative disease that causes rapidly progressive muscle weakness)

    Multiple sclerosis (MS)

    Sudden death

    All of these side effects are acknowledged by the FDA20 and are included in Gardasil’s labeling. In addition to these, the Gardasil vaccine insert also lists:21

    • Blood and lymphatic system disorders such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and lymphadenopathy
    • Pulmonary embolus
    • Arthralgia and myalgia (musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders)
    • Nervous system disorders such as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis

    Safety Signal Detected for Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

    According to a study22 published in July 2020, VAERS data mining also revealed a disproportionate number of reports of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and related problems, including amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), irregular menses, increased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and premature menopause.

    POI23 is when a woman’s ovaries stop working normally before the age of 40, which reduces her chances of getting pregnant. It also raises her risk for anxiety and depression, certain eye diseases, heart disease, hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) and osteoporosis (low bone density). According to the authors:24

    “The signal was detected by the methods of Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN) and Multi-item Gamma Poisson Shrinker (MGPS). When both methods detected a positive result, a signal was generated.

    Besides, time-scan map is drawn based on the IC value and 95%CI of BCPNN, if the IC curve showed a steady upward trend and the 95%CI narrowed, the signal was stable and strong association … Our results only represent statistical association between HPV vaccine and POI related events, causal relationship needs further investigation.”

    Concern Over Gardasil Safety Is Rising

    Over the years, parents have gotten increasingly concerned about the safety of Gardasil. According to a 2021 investigation,25 23% of parents who declined HPV vaccination for their child in 2018 cited concerns about safety, compared to 13% in 2015.

    Normally, drugs become more accepted over time as their safety is demonstrated in the real world. Not so with Gardasil, however, which could be an indication that more and more people know or have heard of youngsters suffering serious problems.26

    The fact of the matter is that tolerance for Gardasil-induced harm ought to be far lower than it is. It should be extremely low for the simple fact that the vaccine is given to perfectly healthy children and teens whose future risk of dying from cervical cancer is zero at the time it’s given, and only 2.2 per 100,00027 by the time they’re 58. Also, it’s worth noting that risk factors for HPV infection among young females are:28

    Early age of sexual debut

    Multiple lifetime sexual partners

    Short intervals between different partners

    Use of hormonal contraceptives

    Smoking

    Diet deficient in certain micronutrients

    So, considering that the main risk factors are modifiable behavior choices, wouldn’t it make more sense to encourage young females to work on avoiding the risks, as opposed to simply counting on the vaccine to protect them?

    Additionally, a woman’s lifetime risk of a cervical cancer diagnosis is only 0.7%, so it’s hardly a concern worth taking significant risks to avoid.

    The threshold of tolerance for vaccine-induced risks is further lowered by the fact that it’s a mandated requirement for school attendance in some jurisdictions, and is available without parental consent in others. There’s also ample evidence showing that inexpensive Pap smears are the most effective way to identify an HPV infection and, by treating it, preventing it from turning into cancer.

    Merck Accused of Fraud in Gardasil Safety Testing

    There are other reasons to be suspicious of Gardasil’s safety as well. According to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Merck committed fraud in its safety testing by:

    • Testing Gardasil against a toxic placebo, and
    • Hiding a 2.3% incidence of autoimmune disease occurring within seven months of vaccination

    Table 1 in the package insert29 for Gardasil looks at vaccine injuries at the site of injection. It shows that Gardasil was administered to 5,088 girls; another 3,470 received the control, amorphous aluminum hydroxyphosphate sulfate (AAHS) — a neurotoxic aluminum vaccine adjuvant that has been associated with many serious vaccine injuries in the medical literature.

    AAHS is also the adjuvant used in Gardasil, so it’s hardly a reasonable control. They basically tested the complete vaccine against its most toxic component. 

    A third group, consisting of 320 individuals, received a proper placebo (saline). In the Gardasil and AAHS control groups, the number of injuries were fairly close; 83.9% in the Gardasil group and 75.4% in the AAHS control group. Meanwhile, the rate of injury (again, relating to injuries at the injection site only), was significantly lower at 48.6%.

    Table 9 from the vaccine insert is the “Summary of girls and women 9 through 26 years of age who reported an incident condition potentially indicative of a systemic autoimmune disorder after enrollment in clinical trials of Gardasil, regardless of causality.” These conditions include serious systemic reactions, chronic and debilitating disorders and autoimmune diseases.

    Now all of a sudden, there are only two columns, not three as shown for the injection site injuries. The column left out is that of the saline placebo group. According to Kennedy, Merck cleverly hid the hazards of Gardasil by combining the saline group with the aluminum control, thereby watering down the side effects reported in the controls.

    Looking at the effects reported in the two groups, 2.3% of those who received Gardasil reported an effect of this nature, as did 2.3% of those receiving the AAHS (aluminum) control or saline placebo. The same exact ratio of harm is reported in both groups, which makes it appear as though Gardasil is harmless.

    In reality, the vast majority of the controls were given a toxic substance, and they don’t tell us how many of those receiving a truly inert substance developed these systemic injuries.

    Still, we can draw some educated guesses, seeing how the injection site injury ratios between Gardasil and the aluminum group were similar. In short, Merck’s use of AAHS, a neurotoxic aluminum adjuvant instead of a biologically inactive placebo, effectively nullifies its prelicensure Gardasil safety testing.

    Aluminum Can Trigger Debilitating Health Problems

    The use of aluminum (AAHS) in Gardasil, and its disastrous health effects, was also brought up in a January 2019 court case (Jennifer Robi vs. Merck and Kaiser Permanente). Kennedy was one of the expert witnesses in this trial. As reported by the Children’s Health Defense (CHD) at the time:30

    “… Paul Pennock of Weitz & Luxenberg … ran through a riveting 50-minute slide show demonstrating how Gardasil’s super-powered Amorphous Aluminum Hydroxyphosphate Sulfate (AAHS) adjuvant over-stimulated the immune systems of vaccine recipients tipping them into autoimmune conditions in which their redlining immune defenses begin attacking their bodies’ own organs.

    This ‘autoimmune process’ causes a cascade of illnesses that, in Jennifer Robi’s case, resulted in damage and deterioration in diverse organ systems throughout her body. Victims like Jennifer are left exhausted as the body fights off disease on multiple fronts.

    Pennock explained that vaccine makers add aluminum adjuvants … to elicit an immune response, hoping to extend the short-term immunity otherwise provided by most vaccines. Among vaccinologists, it’s axiomatic that the duration of immunity correlates directly to the toxicity of the adjuvant; the more toxic the adjuvant, the longer the duration of immunity …

    Gardasil’s promoters were promising lifelong protection, and needed a super toxic adjuvant that would provide this unprecedented level of protection. After all, Merck was promising regulators, pediatricians and the public that inoculations given to 9-12-year-old girls would provide immunity against a relatively rare cancer that typically doesn’t kill until age 58!”

    Crazy as it may seem, AAHS has never been safety tested by the government or Merck. Independent animal studies, however, have shown that animals such as mice and sheep, when exposed to aluminum adjuvants at concentrations comparable to what’s used in human vaccines, “develop strange behavioral patterns and illnesses resembling autoimmune diseases,” CHD noted.31

    ‘Deceptive Canards’

    Kennedy also gave a presentation before the court, “describing the parade of deceptive canards that composed Merck’s clinical trials,” CHD writes. In addition to using toxic AAHS as a “placebo,” other fraudulent gimmicks included purging the study group of participants who had vulnerabilities to the vaccine or any of its ingredients.

    In so doing, they effectively masked effects that would primarily occur in certain vulnerable subgroups. Study subjects excluded from the trial included those with allergies, immunological or nervous disorders, four or more lifetime sex partners, genetic vulnerabilities to any known disease (including cancer), and those with general infections, a history of alcohol or drug abuse, and/or a serious or chronic illness.

    The problem, of course, is that children are not prescreened for any of these vulnerabilities before they get the vaccine. In reality, anyone with one or more of these conditions should not get Gardasil based on the fact that it’s never been studied in anyone with these conditions. It’s only been safety tested on the healthiest children possible.

    “Even these flimflams could not conceal the mayhem caused by Gardasil,” CHD wrote.32 “Kennedy showed the court data from Merck’s own package insert showing that 2.3 % of the girls receiving the vaccine complained of symptoms of autoimmune disease within 7 months.

    Since cervical cancer kills only 1.5 Americans in every 100,000, he noted, ‘Merck’s own data show that the chances of getting an autoimmune disease from this vaccine are 1,000 times the risk of dying from cervical cancer.’

    Not only did a heartbreaking 50% of the subjects in both the study group and the spiked placebo group experience a serious adverse event within the seven months of the trial, death rates among girls in the study were double background rates. In fact, the rate for girls during the clinical trials (85/100,000) was 37 times the death rate from cervical cancer!

    Birth defects among children conceived during the study period were 5x those of the control group and miscarriages were doubled over background rates. Reproductive problems among vaccinated girls were 10x background rates.

    Finally, Merck’s own data showed that administering the Gardasil vaccine to girls who had previous exposure to HPV actually raised their risk of developing precancerous lesions (or worse) by almost 45%.”

    For even more details on how Merck rigged its Gardasil trials, see my 2018 article, “Shocking Flaws in Gardasil Trial Design Prevents Safety Assessment,” republished on LewRockwell.com.33

    Carefully Weigh Risks and Benefits Before You Get Vaccinated

    At the end of the day, even if Gardasil is responsible for lowering the rates of certain HPV-related cancers, the negatives, in my view, still outweigh that benefit.

    No. 1, you become more prone to other HPVs, which can also cause cancer, and No. 2, you’re playing Russian Roulette with your health both in the short and long term, as many experience serious side effects from the AAHS in the vaccine. I believe teen girls and women are far better off getting regular Pap smears and simply treating any infection found.



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