Health
Fresh Concerns: Top 12 Produce Items High in Pesticides
While we often consider fruits and vegetables as the healthier alternatives to processed snacks, the reality may be more complex. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a health advocacy organization, releases an annual guide to inform consumers about the levels of pesticides present in produce. On March 20, the EWG unveiled its 2024 “Dirty Dozen” list, highlighting the 12 fruits and vegetables most contaminated with pesticides.
The latest report from the EWG is based on data from tests conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These tests involved 47,510 samples from 46 different types of fruits and vegetables.
“The USDA peels or scrubs and washes produce samples before they’re tested, whereas the FDA removes only dirt first,” the EWG clarified in its report.
Despite these cleaning methods, the tests detected 254 different pesticides in the produce samples.
“Pesticides are chemicals designed to kill living organisms that are considered pests, including insects, weeds and mold. Even after washing fruits and vegetables, pesticide residues remain on produce,” the EWG elaborates on its website. “Research shows that certain pesticides used on American produce are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and cognitive and behavioral problems.”
The four pesticides most commonly found in the produce on the Dirty Dozen list were fludioxonil, pyraclostrobin, boscalid, and pyrimethanil, which are also fungicides, the EWG noted.
“Emerging evidence suggests many widely used fungicides may disrupt human hormone systems,” stated EWG senior toxicologist Alexis Temkin, PhD. “But more studies are needed to better understand the risks they—and all pesticides—pose to humans, particularly children.”
To protect yourself, the EWG advises purchasing organic versions of any produce on the Dirty Dozen list. The following fruits and vegetables have been identified as the most pesticide-contaminated, according to the organization’s recent report.
The EWG warns that green beans may contain traces of two insecticides, acephate and methamidophos, which have been associated with harm to the developing nervous system. These chemicals were found in approximately 8 percent of the non-organic green bean samples tested by the USDA in 2021 and 2022.
Blueberries have secured the 11th spot on the EWG’s Dirty Dozen list for two consecutive years.
“The most troubling pesticides found on blueberries were phosmet and malathion, chemicals known as organophosphate insecticides,” the EWG reported. “They kill many types of insects and are toxic to the human nervous system, especially children’s developing brains.”
Over 90 percent of cherry samples tested positive for residue of two or more pesticides, the EWG’s report revealed. The chemicals of concern found on this fruit were pyraclostrobin, linked with liver toxicity and metabolic disorders, and boscalid, associated with cancer and thyroid dysfunction.
Bell and hot peppers were found to have the second highest amount of individual pesticides, with 101 different chemicals detected on these items, according to the EWG.
Apples typically contain more than four different pesticides, some at high concentrations, the EWG warned.
Like cherries, over 90 percent of nectarine samples tested positive for residues of two or more pesticides.
The EWG reported an increase in the number of chemicals found on pears over the years. In its latest report, the organization found that over 60 percent of non-organic pears tested by the USDA contained traces of five or more pesticides, a significant increase from previous tests.
Almost all peaches are contaminated with pesticides, the EWG warned.
“A single peach sample could have traces of up to 19 different pesticides,” the organization stated.
The EWG’s new report also indicated that over 90 percent of grapes tested positive for two or more pesticides.
Kale, collard, and mustard greens were found to have the most pesticides, with 103 individual chemicals detected across these items, according to the EWG.
Spinach, another leafy green, tested positive for an average of seven different pesticides, including permethrin, which has been banned for use on food crops in Europe since 2000.
“At high doses, permethrin overwhelms the nervous system and causes tremors and seizures,” the EWG cautioned.
Strawberries topped the EWG’s Dirty Dozen list, as they are the “fresh produce item most likely to be contaminated with pesticide residues, even after they are picked, rinsed in the field and washed before eating,” the organization reported.
“The average American eats about eight pounds of fresh strawberries a year—and with them, dozens of pesticides, including chemicals that have been linked to cancer and reproductive damage, or that are banned in Europe,” the EWG warned.
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Heart disease is a significant concern in America, responsible for one in every five deaths. However, adopting certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk. According to experts, these changes are accessible and affordable, making them feasible for almost everyone. Here are seven practices that your heart will appreciate, as recommended by cardiologists.
Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet
Eating well is one of the most effective ways to support your heart. Cardiologists often recommend the DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.
“This is a diet high in vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts and low in sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, and red meats,” explains Jennifer Wong, MD. This diet is rich in essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and calcium while being low in saturated fats and cholesterol. A key aspect of the DASH diet is limiting salt intake, which can help reduce hypertension.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
While some believe a daily glass of red wine is beneficial, recent research advises against any alcohol consumption for heart health.
“Heavy drinking, on the other hand, is linked to a number of poor health outcomes, including heart conditions,” say experts from Johns Hopkins Medicine. Excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure, and other serious conditions. Reducing alcohol intake is a crucial step toward a healthier heart.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Understanding your blood pressure numbers is vital, especially for those at higher risk of heart issues. Regular self-monitoring at home with a blood pressure cuff is recommended.
“You should call your doctor if the blood pressure is greater than 180/120 mmHg on repeated measurements while at rest,” advises Wong. Immediate medical attention is necessary if high readings are accompanied by symptoms like headache or chest pain.
Engage in Regular Exercise
Staying active is essential for heart health. Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar suggests incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
This translates to about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can help keep your heart in top shape. Including strength training and flexibility exercises can further enhance overall health.
Quit Smoking
If you’re a smoker, quitting can have immediate benefits for your heart. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that your heart rate drops just 20 minutes after your last cigarette.
“Within four years of quitting, your risk of stroke drops to that of lifetime nonsmokers,” they report. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful changes you can make for your heart.
Ensure Adequate Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for heart health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend seven to nine hours of sleep per night.
However, one in three Americans doesn’t meet this target, which can lead to higher risks of obesity, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes. “Adults who sleep less than seven hours each night are more likely to say they have had health problems,” says the CDC.
Manage Stress Effectively
Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Finding effective ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises, can benefit your cardiovascular health.
Reducing stress not only improves heart health but also enhances overall well-being.
Taking these steps can significantly improve your heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. By adopting these practices, you can enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life while keeping your heart in mind.
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In recent years, a pressing issue has emerged in the realm of global health: the silent spread of fungal diseases. These infections often go undetected, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to diagnostic tests is severely limited. This scarcity of essential diagnostic tools has dire consequences, as these infections can be lethal if not identified and treated promptly.
The lack of diagnostic tests is a significant barrier to addressing fungal diseases effectively. Without the ability to accurately diagnose these infections, healthcare providers are left in the dark, unable to provide the necessary treatments to those in need. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that fungal infections can mimic other diseases, making them difficult to identify without proper testing.
In many parts of the world, particularly in resource-limited settings, healthcare systems are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of cases and the complexity of diagnosing fungal infections. As a result, millions of people suffer and die from these diseases each year. The need for improved diagnostic capabilities is critical to reversing this trend and saving lives.
The global health community recognizes the urgent need for action. Increasing access to diagnostic tests is a crucial step in the fight against fungal diseases. By equipping healthcare providers with the tools they need to identify these infections, we can improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality rates. However, simply widening access to diagnostic tests is not enough.
“Just widening access to the right drugs won’t solve antimicrobial resistance,” highlights the complexity of the issue. Addressing fungal diseases also requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, prevention, and treatment strategies.
Efforts to combat fungal diseases must be multifaceted, involving collaboration between governments, healthcare organizations, and the private sector. Investment in research and development is essential to create affordable and effective diagnostic tools that can be deployed in low-resource settings.
Moreover, raising awareness about the impact of fungal diseases is crucial. Public health campaigns can educate communities about the symptoms and risks associated with these infections, encouraging individuals to seek medical attention promptly.
In conclusion, the spread of fungal diseases is a growing concern that demands immediate attention. By improving access to diagnostic tests and implementing a comprehensive approach to prevention and treatment, we can make significant strides in controlling these infections. The global health community must act swiftly to address this silent epidemic and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their location or economic status, have access to the care they need.
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Health
Secret to Managing Diabetes and Shedding 40 Pounds: The Surprising Plate Strategy That Worked
While increasing your daily steps and paying attention to your diet are common strategies for weight loss, many people overlook the sequence in which they consume their meals. David Donaldson, a CEO of a nonprofit organization, discovered that altering the order in which he ate his food helped him shed 40 pounds and better manage his type 2 diabetes.
Donaldson shared his journey with Business Insider, crediting the Twin Health program for his success. This program offers a “digital twin” that tracks health metrics and provides tailored recommendations. One such suggestion was to prioritize non-starchy vegetables at the start of each meal.
Donaldson mentioned that he typically begins his meals with vegetables like asparagus, cauliflower, or celery. He also enjoys some broccoli and cheese or a salad before dinner. Following this, he consumes the protein and then any carbohydrates on his plate. For instance, if his meal includes chicken, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, he starts with the sprouts, moves on to the chicken, and finishes with the potatoes.
Experts have noted that this eating sequence can be especially advantageous for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Vegetables help control blood sugar and slow digestion.
“That’s really good advice actually, in type 2 diabetes, to have either the veggies first and/or the protein, and the carbohydrates last,” said Nicola Guess, RD, MPH, PhD, a registered dietician specializing in dietary prevention and type 2 diabetes management at Oxford University.
However, for those without diabetes, the benefits of this eating method are less certain.
In addition to changing the order of his meals, Donaldson highlighted two other recommendations from Twin Health that aided his weight loss and improved his health metrics. The app tracks various health indicators and offers personalized advice based on the data.
One of these suggestions was incorporating apple cider vinegar into his routine. Donaldson added a tablespoon of the vinegar to an 8-ounce glass throughout the day, which helped lower his blood sugar. However, due to the acidity of apple cider vinegar, Twin Health advises against this method for individuals with “acid reflux, dental problems, or other medical conditions impacted by high acidity foods.”
The final recommendation was to increase his physical activity by walking more frequently. Although challenging at first, after three to four months of consistency, Donaldson experienced a significant boost in energy.
His “energy went off the chart,” a stark contrast to the lethargy and depression he had faced before.
While these strategies proved effective for Donaldson, it is essential to remember that individual results may vary. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your specific health needs.
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Constance
May 4, 2024 at 11:38 am
Is there organic frozen vegetables and fruit
Miles Bancroft
May 4, 2024 at 12:57 pm
Sure would be nice with all this doom and gloom, no sarcasm here, that you also explain what best negates these murderous contents. I’d love to know how to make my food safer, especially since these are all “healthy” foods, instead of “just buy organic”.