The difference between Vegetarianism and Veganism?

Written by Tena Moore


Simply put, vegetarians have chosen not to eat meat from animals. They do not eat fish, poultry, beef, pork or any other type of flesh from once-living animals. They do, however, still eat byproducts of these
animals, such as eggs and dairy. Vegetarians usually substitute tofu, tempeh, portabella mushrooms, and many other items in the place of meat without much effort. Vegetarian diets can remain very similar to the standard American diet through meat substitutes such as veggie burgers, tofu hotdogs, and fake chicken nuggets. There are also different types of vegetarians, from lacto-vegetarians that do not eat meat and eggs, to ovo-vegetarians that do not eat meat and dairy.

When someone says they are ‘vegan’, they are speaking about more than their diet choices; it is a complete lifestyle that adheres to respecting animals as living beings by not consuming animal products, not wearing animal products, and also not buying products that have been animal-tested. Vegans do not eat the meat of animals and do not eat their byproducts such as honey, dairy, and eggs. It also usually means that they do not wear leather, fur, silk, or wool, or buy products that have been animal-tested.

While vegetarians do not eat animals, vegans strive to live their lives without promoting killing, cruelty or exploitation of animals in any way.




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Is complementary and alternative medicine Safe For Kids?

Written by Tena Moore


It’s no secret that complementary and alternative medicine (otherwise known as CAM) is growing in the United States. A recent study showed that nearly 36 percent of adults and 12 percent of children have used some form of CAM. The study was the very first study that included children. These treatments and therapies can range from yoga, acupuncture and hypnosis, to herbal tinctures, dietary supplements and homeopathic medicines.

While the use of CAM is growing, some are wondering if CAM therapies are safe for their children. To address this issue the American Academy of Pediatrics published a report urging pediatricians to advise their patients toward therapies that are best suited to them, whether or not the therapy is considered conventional or CAM. Although many doctors want more studies performed and more statistical data to back up CAM therapies, nearly 64 percent of medical schools are now offering CAM classes in their medical department.

What is a parent to do while studies are still being conducted and doctors still aren’t in agreement about CAM therapies? Seek out a well-informed CAM practitioner, talk to your family physician about CAM therapies and if possible, find a doctor or medical center in your community that deals with integrative medicine so that your children can benefit from conventional medicine and complementary or alternative medicine.


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Study Finds Red Meat Increases Risk of Macular Degeneration

Written by Tena Moore


Macular Degeneration, also known as Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), affects one in seven individuals over the age of 50. AMD causes a loss of central vision in the eye, leaving peripheral vision untouched.

However, a new study by Dr. Elaine Chong of Victoria’s Eye and Ear Hospital in Australia has found that those who eat red meat more than 10 times a week significantly increase their risk of developing the disease earlier in life.

The study included 6,734 Melbourne residents between the ages of 58 and 69 years, and found that those who ate a lot of red meat, especially salami and sausage, were more likely to suffer from AMD.

Macular degeneration is only the latest disease to be linked to diets high in red meat. Obesity, heart attack, stroke, cancer and osteoporosis are also thought to occur more frequently in those who eat a lot of red meat.

The Meat and Livestock Australia disputed the findings, pointing out that most people in Australia don’t even eat red meat 10 times per week, and also that red meat is high in zinc, a mineral that has been shown to protect against macular degeneration.

Still, it is likely that attacks on red meat will continue. A recent study in the United States found that those who regularly consumed barbecued red meat were at an increased risk of dying from heart failure or cancer.





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There’s also strong evidence that a taking 1,200 to 1,800 milligrams of bromelain each day can help relive painful inflammation