Anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders in the world, affecting millions of people every year. Anxiety can interfere with your daily life, causing symptoms such as nervousness, fear, worry, panic, and insomnia.
While there are many factors that contribute to anxiety, such as genetics, environment, and stress, one aspect that is often overlooked is nutrition.
Nutrition plays a vital role in your mental health, as the food you eat can affect your brain chemistry, mood, and energy levels. Some foods can help you cope with anxiety, while others can make it worse.
Here, we will explore the link between diet and anxiety, and provide you with some practical tips on how to eat for optimal mental well-being.
The Link Between Diet and Anxiety
Research has shown that certain nutrients can influence your mental health and help with anxiety management.
For example, omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish, nuts, and seeds, can help reduce inflammation and improve brain function. Omega-3s can also modulate the activity of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation and stress response.
Another nutrient that can affect your anxiety is magnesium, which is found in leafy greens, beans, and nuts. Magnesium is essential for nerve and muscle function and can help relax your body and mind. Magnesium can also regulate the production of cortisol, the stress hormone that can trigger anxiety symptoms.
Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can also help you with anxiety management, as they provide a steady source of energy and prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. Complex carbs can also increase the availability of tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted into serotonin, the “happy hormone” that can boost your mood and calm your nerves.
On the other hand, some foods can aggravate your anxiety and worsen your mental health.
These include foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, such as sweets, pastries, white bread, and soda. These foods can cause rapid fluctuations in your blood sugar levels, which can lead to mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. Sugar can also deplete your body of essential nutrients, such as vitamin B, which is important for nerve health, stress & anxiety management.
Another food that can exacerbate your anxiety is caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate. Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness, but also trigger anxiety, jitteriness, and insomnia. Caffeine can also interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as calcium and iron, which are essential for your mental health.
Processed and high-fat foods, such as fast food, chips, and fried foods, can also contribute to anxiety and inflammation, as they can impair your digestion and gut health. Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that can affect your brain and mood, as they produce neurotransmitters and hormones that can influence your anxiety levels. Processed and high-fat foods can disrupt the balance of your gut bacteria, and cause inflammation, which can impair your brain function and mental health.
The Foods that Soothe Anxiety
Now that you know how diet can affect your anxiety, you may wonder what the best foods are to eat for your mental health.
Have these nutrient-rich foods that can support your mental well-being and help in anxiety management:
Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and improve brain function. Omega-3s can also modulate the activity of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation and stress response.
Whole grains, such as oats, brown rice, and quinoa, are sources of complex carbohydrates, which can provide a steady source of energy and prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes. Whole grains can also increase the availability of tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted into serotonin, the “happy hormone” that can boost your mood and calm your nerves.
Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and broccoli, are rich in magnesium, which is essential for nerve and muscle function, and can help relax your body and mind. Magnesium can also regulate the production of cortisol, the stress hormone that can trigger anxiety symptoms.
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds, are also sources of magnesium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc, which are important for your brain health and immune system. Nuts and seeds can also help you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating and emotional eating.
Fruits and vegetables, such as berries, oranges, and carrots, are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which can protect your brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Fruits and vegetables can also provide you with fiber, which can improve your digestion and gut health, and support your mental health.
Probiotic foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, are foods that contain beneficial bacteria that can improve your gut health and brain health. Probiotics can help balance your gut flora and produce neurotransmitters and hormones that can influence your anxiety levels. Probiotics can also boost your immune system and reduce inflammation, which can affect your mental health.
Dark Chocolate: Indulging in a small piece of dark chocolate can have a calming effect on the mind. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which have been linked to lower stress levels and improved mood.
Chamomile Tea: Known for its soothing properties, chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It contains compounds that bind to receptors in the brain, reducing anxiety and promoting better sleep. Chamomile contains apigenin. Because apigenin acts on the same receptors as benzodiazepines, consuming chamomile tea can lead to similar feelings of calmness and mild sedation. This is why chamomile tea is often recommended as a natural remedy for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
The Foods that Aggravate Anxiety
Foods that you should avoid or limit if you suffer from anxiety:
Sugar and refined carbohydrates, such as sweets, pastries, white bread, and soda, can cause rapid fluctuations in your blood sugar levels, which can lead to mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. Sugar can also deplete your body of essential nutrients, such as vitamin B, which is important for nerve health and stress management.
Caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate, is a stimulant that can increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness, but also trigger anxiety, jitteriness, and insomnia. Caffeine can also interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as calcium and iron, which are essential for your mental health.
Processed and high-fat foods, such as fast food, chips, and fried foods, can contribute to anxiety and inflammation, as they can impair your digestion and gut health. Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that can affect your brain and mood, as they produce neurotransmitters and hormones that can influence your anxiety levels. Processed and high-fat foods can disrupt the balance of your gut bacteria, and cause inflammation, which can impair your brain function and mental health.
Alcohol, which is often used as a coping mechanism for anxiety, can actually worsen your mental health, as it can dehydrate you, disrupt your sleep, and interfere with your neurotransmitter levels. Alcohol can also lower your inhibitions and impair your judgment, which can lead to regrettable actions and increased anxiety.
Practical Tips for Eating for Your Mental Health
You may wonder how to incorporate these foods into your diet. Here are some practical tips that can help you eat for your mental well-being and manage your anxiety:
Plan your meals ahead of time, and make sure to include a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fatty fish, whole grains, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, fruits and vegetables, and probiotic foods. Planning your meals can help you avoid impulse eating and make healthier choices.
Reduce your consumption of foods that may aggravate your anxiety, such as sugar, refined carbohydrates, caffeine, processed and high-fat foods, and alcohol. You don’t have to eliminate them completely, but try to limit them to occasional treats or special occasions.
Practice mindful eating, which means paying attention to your hunger and fullness cues, eating slowly and without distractions, and savoring the flavors and textures of your food. Mindful eating can help you enjoy your food more, reduce stress, and prevent overeating and emotional eating.
Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can affect your mood, energy, and cognitive function. Water can also help flush out toxins and waste products from your body, and keep your skin and hair healthy. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol.
Consult a nutritionist or a doctor, if you have any specific dietary needs or concerns, or if you want to make major changes to your diet. A professional can help you create a personalized nutrition plan that suits your goals, preferences, and health conditions.
While nutrition alone cannot cure anxiety disorders, it can play a significant role in managing symptoms and promoting overall well-being. Incorporating foods that soothe anxiety, such as fatty fish, dark chocolate, chamomile tea, yogurt, and green leafy vegetables, into your diet can have a positive impact on mental health. On the other hand, avoiding or reducing the consumption of foods that aggravate anxiety, such as caffeine, alcohol, sugar, processed foods, and highly salty foods, can help alleviate symptoms.
By paying attention to our diet and making mindful choices, we can take a proactive approach to anxiety management and improving our mental well-being.
Gluten-Free Diets: A Lifestyle Choice or a Necessity?
In the bustling aisles of our local supermarkets, one might notice an increasing number of products labeled ‘gluten-free’.
Similar is the case with today’s culinary landscape, the term “gluten-free” is ubiquitous, adorning menus and product labels alike.
Is this trend just a fad or a reflection of the growing awareness and necessity of gluten-free diets for a significant portion of the population.
Behind this dietary trend lies a complex web of scientific understanding, health considerations, and personal choices.
Let’s understand that, shall we?
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein composite found in certain grains, predominantly wheat, barley, and rye, as well as their derivatives.
It is composed of two main proteins: glutenin and gliadin.
When these proteins are mixed with water, they form a sticky, elastic network that gives dough its characteristic stretchiness and helps trap gas bubbles produced by yeast or other leavening agents, resulting in the rise of baked goods.
This unique property of gluten makes it an essential ingredient in many staple foods, such as bread, pasta, cereal, and baked goods. It provides structure and texture to these products, contributing to their chewiness and elasticity.
However, for individuals with gluten-related disorders, this seemingly harmless protein can cause serious health issues. These conditions include celiac disease, wheat allergy, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. In such cases, the immune system reacts negatively to gluten, causing inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine, leading to a range of symptoms and health complications.
However, the popularity of gluten-free diets has surged in recent years, driven by perceived health benefits and dietary trends. As a result, many food products now feature gluten-free alternatives, catering to the diverse dietary preferences and health needs of consumers.
Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease
Gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and celiac disease are conditions where the body reacts negatively to gluten. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort, like bloating and fatigue, to severe health complications such as malnutrition and intestinal damage, especially in the case of celiac disease.
According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, celiac disease affects 1 in 100 people worldwide.
Gluten-Free Diet
A gluten-free diet involves excluding all foods that contain gluten. This means saying no to many types of bread, pasta, cereals, and even some sauces and snacks.
However, it also opens up a range of other nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and grains like rice and quinoa.
For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is not a choice but a necessity.
Gluten-Free as a Lifestyle Choice
Interestingly, a growing number of people without gluten intolerance or celiac disease are also opting for a gluten-free diet. Some believe it leads to weight loss, increased energy, and overall improved health.
However, scientific evidence to support these claims is mixed, and many experts argue that a gluten-free diet is not healthier for the general population.
Adopting a gluten-free diet is not without its challenges.
It requires careful reading of food labels, as gluten can be hidden in unexpected places, like salad dressings and soy sauce. There’s also the risk of nutritional deficiencies, as many gluten-containing foods are fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Adopting a gluten-free diet can be a significant change and comes with its own set of challenges and considerations:
Limited Food Choices: Gluten is found in many foods, especially processed ones. This can limit the variety of foods you can eat and make dining out or eating at social events challenging.
Risk of Nutrient Deficiencies: Many gluten-containing foods are fortified with vitamins and minerals. When you eliminate these from your diet, you may need to find new sources of these nutrients.
Higher Grocery Bills: Gluten-free products often cost more than their gluten-containing counterparts.
Difficulty in Finding Gluten-Free Foods: Not all supermarkets or restaurants offer gluten-free options, which can make shopping and dining out more difficult.
Risk of Cross-Contamination: Even trace amounts of gluten can cause symptoms in people with celiac disease. Cross-contamination can occur in shared cooking areas or utensils.
Need for Constant Vigilance: Reading food labels becomes a necessity as gluten can be hidden in unexpected places, like salad dressings, soy sauce, and even some medications or supplements.
Before starting a gluten-free diet, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and resources to help ensure your diet is balanced and nutritious. It’s also beneficial to seek support from others who are also following a gluten-free diet, as they can offer advice, empathy, and practical tips.
Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a gluten-free diet.
How to go Gluten-Free?
Step 1. Identify Naturally Gluten-Free Foods at Home
Before investing in pricey store-bought gluten-free breads and cereals, take a glance inside your kitchen cupboards and refrigerator. You might already have many items that are naturally gluten-free. Keep in mind that the items should be free from any additives.
Fresh fruits Fresh beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, and seafood Fresh eggs Fresh plain milk, butter, margarine, cream Plain white rice, brown rice Plain nuts and seeds Oils Sugar & honey Spices and herbs
Step 2. Identify Packaged Foods at Home that is Gluten-Free
These things are sources of hidden Gluten.
Chuck the items that have one or more of these.
Step 3. Plan One Week’s Menu around Naturally Gluten-Free Foods
Let’s start with a few suggestions. You can tailor them according to your own taste
Breakfasts
Cream of rice cereal with fresh fruit or nuts (Cream of Rice is made from ground, uncooked rice. When cooked with a creamy liquid (such as coconut milk, regular milk, or a dairy-free milk substitute), it transforms into a delicious and soothing bowl of comfort.)
Cottage cheese or yogurt with fresh fruit
Scrambled eggs, omelet with bacon and fresh fruit
Egg, cheese, and vegetable omelet with potatoes and fresh fruit
Lunches and Dinners
Baked potato with cheese and vegetables
Corn or Chick Pea tortillas with stir-fried meat and vegetables
Stir-fried meat and vegetables with rice and wheat-free tamari (a Japanese sauce made from fermented soybeans)
Bean-and-cheese burritos made with corn or chick pea tortillas
Grilled meat or fish, baked potato and vegetables
Snacks
Plain rice cakes with cheese or peanut butter
Nachos made with plain corn chips, cheese and salsa
Celery sticks with cream cheese or peanut butter
Plain popcorn with oil and salt
Fresh fruit with yogurt or ice cream
Step 4. Make a Gluten-Free Shopping List
Step 5. Read Food Labels Every Time You Buy
Step 6. Avoid Cross-Contact
Now this may sound like a paranoid thing but for someone with gluten-sensitivity it is a life saver.
If you live with people who are not gluten sensitive, it is important to protect your gluten-free foods from contact with gluten.
Purchase two jars each of jam, mayonnaise, and peanut butter—one for personal use and the other for the gluten insensitive consumers of your house. To prevent gluten cross-contamination, clearly label the gluten-free jar. Alternatively, consider using squeeze bottles for added convenience and hygiene.
Thoroughly clean cooking utensils, knives, pans, grills, thermometers, cloths, and sponges after each use and before preparing gluten-free foods.
Store gluten-free foods above gluten-containing foods in both your refrigerator and cupboards. This simple practice helps prevent the risk of gluten-containing food particles falling onto gluten-free foods below, thus avoiding contamination.
Use pure spices rather than blends.
When baking with gluten-containing flours, remember to either put away or cover your gluten-free foods. Flour dust has the potential to linger in the air for hours, posing a risk of contaminating your gluten-free products.
Step 7: Travel and gluten sensitivity
When eating out, always opt for a gluten free menu.
Avoid peak dining hours , as cross contamination can happen in rush of orders. Also the staff will eb available for your queries during off-peak hours.
Bring your own gluten-free food when traveling.
Always ask how the food is/ has been prepared. Talk to the manager or chef if your server doesn’t know. Some specific questions to ask include:
Is the meat marinated in soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or Worcestershire sauce? GLUTEN!
Is the chicken dusted with flour before pan-frying? GLUTEN!
Is the oil used for French fries also used for frying onion rings (or other breaded foods)? GLUTEN!
Are there croutons or bacon bits on the salad? GLUTEN!
Do you use wheat flour to make the gravy (or thicken the soup)? GLUTEN!
5. If your meals will be prepared for you in a hospital of a college dining hall), don’t forget to speak with the dietary manager.
6. Always identify yourself as someone who is allergic to wheat, rye and barley.
Step 8- Balanced diet and Gluten Sensitivity
Individuals following a gluten-free diet may face challenges in obtaining adequate levels of essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, iron, B vitamins, and fiber. For instance, numerous gluten-free breads, cereals, and pasta options are not fortified with vitamins and may have lower fiber content compared to their gluten-containing counterparts.
Take supplements!
Step 9. Get Support
For a successful transition to the gluten-free lifestyle, you need support from your family, doctor, dietitian, friends, and others.
In conclusion, while a gluten-free diet is a lifeline for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, it’s not necessarily a healthier choice for everyone. Like any diet, it should be balanced and tailored to the individual’s needs.
As consumers, it’s essential to make informed decisions about our diet and health, and not get swept up in the tide of the latest dietary trends.
In this exploration of gluten-free diets, we’ve delved into the complexities of gluten, its effects on certain individuals, and the implications of adopting a gluten-free lifestyle. We’ve learned that gluten, a seemingly harmless protein found in many of our staple foods, can cause serious health issues for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. For these individuals, a gluten-free diet is not just a lifestyle choice, but a necessity.
However, we’ve also discovered that a gluten-free diet isn’t necessarily beneficial for everyone. In fact, without proper guidance, it can lead to nutritional deficiencies and pose challenges in terms of cost, convenience, and food variety.
The decision to go gluten-free should not be taken lightly. It’s a decision that can significantly impact one’s health and lifestyle.
It’s a testament to the fact that when it comes to our health, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions.
So, before you decide to jump on the gluten-free bandwagon, ask yourself: Is it a lifestyle choice or a necessity for you? Your answer might just change the way you look at your plate. 🍽️
Chicken is often considered a healthy and affordable source of protein, as well as a versatile and delicious ingredient for various cuisines.
HOWEVER, EATING CHICKEN THESE DAYS IS
NOT THE
SAME AS EATING CHICKEN A FEW DECADES AGO.
Due to changes in the farming, processing, and cooking methods of chicken, the nutritional quality and safety of chicken meat have declined significantly.
In fact, eating chicken these days could be causing most of the chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and even cancers, especially due to the role of linoleic acid.
Linoleic acid is a type of fat that is essential for human health
But only in small amounts, mind you.
As they have been saying, “Excess of anything is bad!”
It is found mostly in plant oils and poultry meat, and it is used by the body to produce energy and regulate various physiological functions.
However, when consumed in excess, linoleic acid can have detrimental effects on human health, such as increasing inflammation, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Moreover, linoleic acid can interfere with the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the body, which are crucial for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
Scientists have now figured how chicken consumption contributes to linoleic acid overload, and how this affects the risk of various chronic diseases. They have even charted the specific mechanisms and pathways that link chicken consumption, linoleic acid, and chronic diseases, and how they can vary depending on the individual’s genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
After we make it crystal clear, what damage is chicken consumption doing to your body, we will share some recommendations and suggestions for reducing chicken consumption and improving your health and diet.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the hidden dangers of chicken consumption, and how you can take action to protect yourself and your loved ones from the consequences of chicken consumption.
So, let’s get started! 🐔
What is Linoleic Acid and Why is it Harmful?
Linoleic acid is a type of fat that belongs to the omega-6 family of fatty acids.
Omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, meaning that they cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from food.
Eicosanoids are hormone-like substances that regulate many biological processes, such as blood pressure, blood clotting, inflammation, immune function, and reproduction.
However, not all eicosanoids have the same effects.
Some are pro-inflammatory, meaning that they increase inflammation and promote tissue damage, while others are anti-inflammatory, meaning that they reduce inflammation and protect tissue health.
The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory eicosanoids depends largely on the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the body.
Omega-3 fatty acids are another type of essential fatty acids that are found mainly in fish, seafood, and some plant sources, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
When we consume too much linoleic acid and not enough omega-3 fatty acids, the balance of eicosanoids shifts towards the pro-inflammatory side.
Consuming foods with higher Omega-6: Omega-3 fatty acids can lead to chronic inflammation, a common factor in many diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Excessive linoleic acid intake can also cause other harmful effects, such as increasing oxidative stress, insulin resistance, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Several studies have shown that reducing linoleic acid intake and increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake can improve the balance of eicosanoids and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
For example, a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that replacing saturated fat with linoleic acid reduced the risk of coronary heart disease by 19% but replacing saturated fat with omega-3 fatty acids reduced the risk by 28%.
Chicken Consumption Contributing to Linoleic Acid Overload?
Chicken is one of the most popular and widely consumed meats in the world.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, the global production of chicken meat was 111.8 million metric tons in 2020, and the average per capita consumption was 14.7 kilograms. Chicken is often considered a healthy and affordable source of protein, as well as a versatile and delicious ingredient for various cuisines.
However, eating chicken these days is not the same as eating chicken a few decades ago.
One of the major changes is the increase in the linoleic acid content of chicken meat.
The linoleic acid content of chicken meat depends on several factors, such as
the type
the cut
the preparation of the chicken
Generally, dark meat (such as thighs and drumsticks) has more fat and linoleic acid than white meat (such as breast and wings).
Skinless chicken has less fat and linoleic acid than chicken with skin. Fried chicken has more fat and linoleic acid than baked or grilled chicken.
However, the most important factor that affects the linoleic acid content of chicken meat is “the diet of the chicken”.
Most chickens today are raised in industrial farms, where they are fed with grains, soybeans, and corn, which are rich in linoleic acid. This results in higher levels of linoleic acid in the chicken meat, compared to chickens that are raised on pasture, where they can eat grass, insects, and seeds, which are lower in linoleic acid.
According to a study that analyzed the fatty acid composition of chicken meat from different countries, the average linoleic acid content of chicken meat was 16.5% of total fat in 2010, compared to 8.8% in 1960. This means that eating 100 grams of chicken meat today provides about 2.5 grams of linoleic acid, compared to 1.3 grams in 1960.
Life Stage
Age
Source
Males: (g/day)
Females: (g/day)
Children
1-3 years
LA
7
7
Children
4-8 years
LA
10
10
Children
9-13 years
LA
12
10
Adolescents
14-18 years
LA
16
11
Adults
19-50 years
LA
17
12
Adults
>50 years
LA
14
11
Pregnancy
All ages
LA
-
13
Lactation
All ages
LA
-
13
Eating chicken meat can increase the intake of linoleic acid beyond the recommended levels, and affect the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the body.
The World Health Organization recommends that in typical adult females and males, 2 % of the total daily energy intakeshould be derived from omega-6 PUFA and 0.5 % from omega-3 PUFA. This corresponds to a daily intake of approximately 6 g/day (5 g omega-6 PUFA/day + 1 g omega-3 PUFA/day) for women and 8 g/day (6.4 g omega-6 PUFA/day + 1.6 g omega-3 PUFA/day) for men.
The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids should be between 5:1 and 10:1.
reducing chicken consumption and increasing fish consumption
can improve the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and
lower the risk of chronic diseases.
For example, a randomized controlled trial found that replacing chicken with fish for 12 weeks reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and improved the markers of cardiovascular health in healthy adults. Another randomized controlled trial found that replacing chicken with fish for 8 weeks improved the insulin sensitivity and blood lipid profile in overweight and obese adults.
Consequences of Chicken Consumption for Chronic Diseases
Chicken consumption can increase the risk of various chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, by affecting the metabolism, immune function, blood clotting, inflammation, and reproduction. These effects are mainly mediated by the linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids that are derived from chicken meat.
Linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids can influence the development and progression of chronic diseases by modulating the expression and activity of genes, enzymes, receptors, and signaling pathways that are involved in these diseases.
Linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids
can increase the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, such as prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4,
The effects of chicken consumption, linoleic acid, and other omega-6 fatty acids on chronic diseases can vary depending on the individual’s genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. For example
Some people may have genetic variants that affect the metabolism and conversion of linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids, making them more or less susceptible to the harmful effects of these fatty acids.
Some people may also have higher or lower intake of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, which can modulate the effects of linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids on chronic diseases.
Furthermore, some people may be exposed to more or less stress, pollution, infection, and other environmental factors, which can interact with linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids and influence the risk of chronic diseases.
Several studies have shown that reducing chicken consumption and increasing the intake of other sources of protein, such as fish, legumes, nuts, and seeds, can lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Another meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies found that replacing 3% of energy from chicken with fish was associated with a 6% lower risk of coronary heart disease.
A third meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies found that replacing 3% of energy from chicken with legumes was associated with a 9% lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
In conclusion, chicken consumption can have both positive and negative effects on human health, depending on the amount, type, and preparation of the chicken, as well as the overall dietary pattern and lifestyle of the individual. Chicken is a good source of protein and other nutrients, but it also contains high amounts of linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and other metabolic disturbances, leading to increased risk of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
To prevent these adverse effects, it is important to limit the intake of chicken, especially processed and fried chicken, and to balance it with other sources of protein, such as fish, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
By understanding the hidden dangers of chicken consumption, and how they can be prevented or reduced, the readers can take action to protect themselves and their loved ones from the consequences of chicken consumption. Some of the actions that the readers can take are:
Limit the intake of chicken, especially processed and fried chicken, and choose leaner cuts, such as breast and wings, and remove the skin before eating.
Balance the intake of chicken with other sources of protein, such as fish, legumes, nuts, and seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals.
Avoid cooking chicken with high-temperature methods, such as frying, grilling, or roasting, which can increase the formation of harmful compounds, such as heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Instead, use low-temperature methods, such as boiling, steaming, or poaching, which can preserve the nutritional quality and safety of chicken meat.
Choose organic, free-range, or pasture-raised chicken, which have lower levels of linoleic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids, and higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients, compared to conventional, factory-farmed chicken.
Supplement the diet with omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil, flaxseed oil, or algae oil, which can improve the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the body, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
A WELL BALANCED DIET that includes a variety of foods can help mitigate any potential risks associated with excessive linoleic acid intake. Incorporating other sources of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated fats found in olive oil and avocados, can help maintain a healthy balance.
We hope that this article has been informative and helpful for you. We would love to hear your feedback or opinions on this topic. Please feel free to leave a comment below, or share this article with your friends and family.
Remember, you are what you eat, so choose wisely and eat healthily! 😊
But to understand why, first we need to understand why do males exist, in the first place?
If you were attentive in your biology class back when you were at school, you must have heard curiously and imbibed that humans reproduced by sexual methods and it was necessary to combine and mix genetic information from two different sexes—one male and one female—to increases variation in genetics of the next generation and it was this very variation that helped a species survive.
Unless you were not busy admiring the diagrams of the reproductive systems of your opposite sex!
In either case your biology text books were wrong!
Unfortunately, most evolutionary experts stopped believing in the concept of a male-female sexual reproduction , almost a century ago. (Your textbooks couldn’t keep up with the developments happening in the world!)
However, the first animal cloning using nuclear transfer, was done in 1952, when Robert Briggs and Thomas King transferred the nucleus from an early tadpole embryo into an enucleated frog egg.
First primate, A rhesus monkey, created by embryonic cell nuclear transfer in 1997. This proved that humans closest relatives could be cloned.
These advancements falsified the much followed concept, that two different sexes were needed for mammalian reproduction and that a sex-ratio balance between males and females was necessary for the continuation of the species.
Before that if you asked any one whether mammals could reproduce without sexual reproduction…The short answer would have been a no, mammals cannot reproduce with means other than sexual reproduction. It was believed mammals relied on genomic imprinting (a mechanism that labels which genes are inherited from the mother and which are from the father.) which prevented mammals from reproducing asexually. It was also believed that asexual reproduction resulted in clones that are genetically identical to the parent.
But with times, comes change and with change, comes evolution.
Scientific developments has now enabled us humans to evolve independent of nature and time. We have been able to achieve things like Cloning, Gene Splicing and Parthenogenesis , processes that defy the rules made by nature and evolution.
Have we finally defied the Darwinian theory of evolution?
Was there inherently something wrong with evolution?
The process of evolutionary struggle between the two sexes has been long and full of controversies with males, asserting their dominance, have long proclaimed themselves the stronger sex, attributing physically demanding and formidable tasks exclusively to their domain. Wars have been waged under the guise of safeguarding lands and protecting women. The female, historically deemed the weaker sex, found herself entrusted with the nurturing and rearing of the offspring, a role recently challenged as women increasingly delve into tasks once considered the sole purview of men. Yet, amidst this evolution, one must ponder:
Is this the course that nature intended all along?
Let’s see!
In an extremely simplified way, to describe the initial stages of fetal development, the early stages of development, the fetal gonads have the potential to become either testes or ovaries.
The default state is considered to be “female.” ( Men can be shocked here as nature’s default sex is Female!!!)
Both future males and future females fetuses start with similar structures in the early stages, and it is indeed the presence or absence of a specific chemical trigger that determines the differentiation into either a male or female.
This trigger is the release of hormones, specifically the presence of the Y chromosome in the male. If the fetus carries a Y chromosome (XY), this signals the gonads to develop into testes, which then produce hormones like testosterone. These hormones play a crucial role in the development of male reproductive organs and the differentiation of secondary sexual characteristics.
In the absence of a Y chromosome, the gonads will develop into ovaries, and the fetus will follow a female developmental pathway.
“Men are basically genetically modified women – the female being the fallback developmental pathway for any fetus.”
Now, men, after you have digested that we can move forward. Shall we?
If that was not enough , throughout life, men are more vulnerable than women on most measures
1. Fetal Development:
Studies suggest that male fetuses may be more vulnerable to certain complications during pregnancy. For example, male fetuses may be at a higher risk of preterm birth and other prenatal challenges.
2. Infancy and Childhood:
Male infants may face a higher risk of certain health issues, including developmental disorders and certain congenital conditions. This vulnerability is not universal but may be influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
3. Adolescence:
During adolescence, males may engage in riskier behaviors compared to females. This behavioral difference can lead to a higher likelihood of accidents or injuries among adolescent males.
4. Adulthood:
Men, on average, have a shorter life expectancy compared to women.
They are more prone to certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer. Lifestyle factors, genetic predispositions, and hormonal differences contribute to these vulnerabilities.
5. Disease Predisposition:
Genetics and hormones play a role in disease susceptibility. For instance, men may be more predisposed to certain genetic conditions (Hemophilia, Color Blindness, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy) while women’s hormonal profiles may offer protective effects against certain diseases until menopause.(Osteoporosis, Cardiovascular Disease (postmenopausal), Autoimmune Diseases (more prevalent in women, especially postmenopausal) – Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis.)
6. Immune Response:
Studies suggest that women generally mount a more robust immune response compared to men. This difference may contribute to variations in vulnerability to infectious diseases and autoimmune conditions.
7. Mental Health:
Mental health vulnerabilities also differ between genders. While women may have higher rates of certain mental health disorders, men may be less likely to seek help, potentially leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
8. Societal and Environmental Factors:
Social and environmental factors, including occupational exposures and societal expectations related to masculinity, may contribute to increased vulnerability in men. These factors can influence health behaviors and access to healthcare.
What???? Why has been a male put at so many disadvantages by nature?
Did evolution go wrong?
Why would a male exist if a female is the default state of natural selection and are more hardier ?
The various current theories about why males evolved and still remain in existence are nicely set out in Matt Ridley’s book The Red Queen.(It discusses the evolutionary role and persistence of males in the context of sexual reproduction & delves into the concept of sexual selection, where competition for mates drives the evolution of certain traits and behaviors. Ridley explores why sexual reproduction, involving both males and females, has persisted over asexual reproduction in many species.
In sexual reproduction, males and females contribute genetic material to produce offspring. Ridley discusses the advantages and evolutionary reasons behind having two distinct sexes, exploring the benefits of genetic diversity, the Red Queen hypothesis, and the arms race between the sexes. The idea is that the constant genetic reshuffling through sexual reproduction provides a mechanism for adapting to changing environments and combating parasites and diseases.
The book examines various aspects of sexual selection, including the evolution of secondary sexual characteristics, courtship behaviors, and the role of competition among males for access to mates.)
Evolution has created two different genetic rivals. The male has been “endowed” with the Y(chromosome) which a male can transfer to his son only( though there are genetic disorders where Y can be present with XX (Klinefelter Syndrome) and can be absent in XX Male Syndrome but normally 46 XY is a male geno/phenotype) and the female has been given the mitochondrial DNA , which can be passed on from a female to a daughter only (The mitochondria in mammalian sperm are usually destroyed by the egg cell after fertilization!).
The mitochondrial DNA is a neat and efficient model, but the Y-chromosome is a bit messy and struggling with mutations.
The mitochondria evolved a unique mechanism which maintains mtDNA integrity through degradation of excessively damaged genomes followed by replication of intact/repaired mtDNA. This mechanism is not present in the nucleus and is enabled by multiple copies of mtDNA present in mitochondria.
Why is the Y-chromosome, once a chromosome with many useful genes, now facing difficulties?
It took on the role of creating males, which likely happened around 100 million years ago due to a mutation, leading to its current situation which unfortunately doesn’t carry much significance. Over time, it has lost many of its useful genes and now only 27 remain- and they too are constantly at risk.
The Y chromosome plays a crucial role in spermatogenesis, which is the process of production of a mind-boggling 150 Million sperms per day. This crazy cell division predisposes to error-prone DNA copying thus providing ideal conditions for mutations.
How can these mutations manifest?
1 in 6 couples in the U.S. deal with infertility — that’s nearly 17%
Moreover, when the dataset was restricted to more recent studies (post-2000), the declines in semen parameters became steeper. For instance, the decline in worldwide sperm concentration doubled, suggesting that these declines may be accelerating.
In roughly a quarter of cases of male primary infertility, the problem is traceable to new Y-chromosome mutations, which disable one or other of the few remaining genes.
So what does that mean? Are Y-Chromosome and males loosing relevance?
Kind of, yes.
With the advent of reproductive techniques like cloning, gene splicing and parthenogenesis will a male not be needed for procreation?
Fret not!
That’s not going to happen soon. At least not for the next 100,000 years considering the rate of decline in male fertility.
But before we jump on to interpretations and conclusions I for one will want to see the Male evolution and his contributions to the earth.
Be warned as they are as bad as they are good in nature!
The Aggressor
While it may not be impartial to attribute most acts of violence and aggression, ranging from local incidents to global events, predominantly to men, the connection remains robust, persistent, and indisputable. The world invaders, war going clans, nuclear explosions, chemical warfare etc you can think of as many examples where men killed fellow men and even women in children in the guise of saving their land or the lady. A less aggressive attitude would have saved so many lives.
For reference :
Invader
Time Period
Approximate Death Toll
Genghis Khan
12th-13th centuries
30 to 40 million
Alexander the Great
4th century BCE
1 to 2 million
Attila the Hun
5th century
Hundreds of thousands
Julius Caesar
1st century BCE
Tens of thousands
Napoleon Bonaparte
19th century
Up to 6 million
Adolf Hitler
20th century
11 to 17 million (including Holocaust
Joseph Stalin
20th century
20 to 25 million
Mao Zedong
20th century
45 to 75 million
Women very rarely commit violent crimes, become tyrants or start wars.
While there are examples of female rulers, warriors, and combatants in various cultures and periods, the overall narrative has predominantly been shaped by male military leaders. Notable historical figures such as Joan of Arc, Boudicca, and various female warriors from different cultures have been involved in military activities, but their numbers and impact on large-scale wars are relatively limited compared to men.
Moreover women have taken to arms to save her family against aggressor men.
Some will put forward the argument that there have been women murderers as well.
While the majority of notorious serial killers historically have been male, there have been a few infamous cases involving female serial killers. Here are a couple of examples:
Aileen Wuornos: Aileen Wuornos is one of the most well-known female serial killers. She was convicted of killing seven men between 1989 and 1990 in Florida. Wuornos claimed that she acted in self-defense and was a victim of sexual assault by her victims. Her life story was later adapted into the movie “Monster” in 2003, where Charlize Theron portrayed Wuornos.
Elizabeth Bathory: While not a traditional serial killer in the contemporary sense, Elizabeth Bathory, a Hungarian countess from the 16th century, is infamous for her alleged involvement in the torture and killing of hundreds of young women. She was accused of bathing in the blood of her victims to maintain her youth and beauty. The full extent of her crimes is debated among historians, and some consider the accounts to be exaggerated or even fictionalized.
It’s important to note that female serial killers are relatively rare compared to their male counterparts, and their cases often attract significant attention due to their rarity.
The Builder
No argument on that.
Men have toiled and died building the world we live in.
No authority can challenge the fact that places where men sweat are not even fathomable by a female. Even todays’ feminists who claim equal job opportunity and equality of pay also don’t even apply for openings where its sheer combination of will and muscle power is required.
They restrict their claims only to air conditioned offices or jobs where the actual brawn is needed.
Yes, women are closing in, as automation makes life simpler for such professions but till this date in time ,females have been labelled as the weaker sex( by men or themselves, is a subject of contention!) and handled less risky or laborious jobs.
Men who are inclined to take risks might be favored by natural selection. As time passes, there could be a genetic predisposition for boys and men to engage in hazardous activities.
Alternatively, tribes ensuring the safety of girls and women may have had an advantage, as they could maintain larger group sizes.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the four most dangerous occupations in the United States in 2019 were fishing and hunting, logging, piloting a small plane or helicopter, and roofing.
That’s 10 times more chance of getting killed for men!
So males have played their part and in this regard evolution has been kind.
But we just discussed that the Y-chromosome is dying. Gradually!
How can we evade extinction( without going digital and staying more biological human) because no males will mean no second parent?
Well, you guessed it right.
Homo sapiens are at least capable of being aware of our impending demise and we already have the methods to prevent it.
Cloning, Gene Splicing and Parthenogenesis will help us find a way round our death sentence
So will the human race need men? And for how much longer?
Only time will tell.
In the mean time gene splicing can help us splice genes off the Y-Chromosome and re-assemble them into small “chromosomal” packages and still retain the males.( Easier said than done!)
Who would do the tough jobs after all. Who would go out in hail and storm to bring back food to be fed to the off-springs. ( Considering that tomorrow we may end up in a stone age because of our technological wrong doings!)
But what if a male isn’t needed at all for reproduction or for any purpose, what so ever?
That sounds impossible (to men at least!) but that would simplify reproduction all together.
Reproduction is fertilization of egg with a sperm.
Right.
Not exactly!
Its the coming together of genetic information of father with that of mother.
This genetic information is carried in nuclear chromosomes.
So basically its just nuclear chromosomes of two individuals.
Not necessarily male or female.
It could be from 2 females as well.
The wide application of Intra-Cellular Sperm Injection (ICSI), the fertilization of eggs by injecting sperm, can very easily be adapted for this purpose.
Currently , its not possible!
Phew!
The only hurdle we would encounter would be the Genomic Imprinting that goes on during production of sperms and eggs. And if these genes a not switched on or left off then they can produce genetic abnormalities like Angelman Syndrome and Prader-Willi Syndrome.
Scientists have had some luck creating mice with two female parents, by injecting one set of maternal DNA in to a sperm(but then you either make a synthetic one or you would again need a male.)
Currently, the prevailing concept I’ve encountered for achieving same-sex fertility involves harvesting stem cells(considered the body’s versatile reserves.
The approach involves prompting these stem cells with hormonal signals to developinto the desired type of gametes, essentially discarding the use of the individual’s actual gametes and starting the process from a more basic stage.
Though this sounds impossible, very little stands in its way from the genetic point of view.
So such engineered embryos would grow into perfectly normal babies. Eventually!
Humans have succeeded in what ever they have tried doing, till this date. So this is also definitely doable.
The only difference from any other birth is that the sex will always be known.
The baby will always be going to be a girl.( As we discussed earlier, they are anyways females , if not for the Y-Chromosome).
Importantly, the baby girls will not be clones.
They will inherit a blend of their parents’ genes, mixed just as extensively as any present-day child.
They will have two biological parents, two mothers!
The entire process has been accomplished without sperm, without Y-chromosomes and without men.
Men! Doesn’t it Sound scary!
Over the past few generations, there has been a remarkable and rapid evolution in female control over fertility. In the span of a single lifetime, women have progressed through multiple significant stages of biological liberation, culminating in the possibility of virgin births. Women now emphasize more control over birth control either in the form of use of contraception or choosing the time and mode of their conception and then birth. Males have been now reduced to mere partners who offer safety, monetary gains or in some cases genetic superiority over other competitors. Women are choosing to have less children anyways.
However, other scientists have challenged this idea and argued that the Y chromosome is not doomed to extinction. They have shown that the Y chromosome has evolved mechanisms to preserve its essential genes and to avoid further degradation.
The journey of human evolution has been marked by adaptability, and only time will reveal the trajectory of our species. In the interim, the coexistence and collaboration of both genders remain essential for the continued progress and preservation of our shared humanity.
In contemplating the hypothetical scenario where males go extinct, the notion of maleness would indeed become relegated to theoretical discussions. The traditional roles of males as guardians and protectors of females, deeply ingrained in historical and cultural contexts, would undergo a profound shift. The absence of males would necessitate a reevaluation of societal dynamics, with the need for alternative mechanisms to fulfill roles traditionally associated with them.
This all is coming , unless we choose to go the way of digital immortality , which seems to be coming much earlier than male extinction.
Men, you can take a sigh of relief now.
My personal guestimate- By the time you read this article someone somewhere would have inched one step closer to his/her aim of digital immortality. By 2100s, humans will have metamorphosed into Homo Immortalis with no importance of male or female sex.
Hell!! There will be no need for reproduction.
We would have conquered death and evolution, making them dance on our tips.
Males would be extinct! So would be Females!
Homo Immortalis will be, if I may say, Gods of the Universe!
To see the wonders of the world and never say never
To love and laugh and learn and grow and never know sorrow
To chase his dreams and hopes and goals and always have tomorrow
But as he grew, he saw the truth of life’s fragility
He lost his friends and family to war and disease and tragedy
He felt his body weaken and his mind grow weary
He realized that living long was not the same as living fully
He searched for ways to stop the clock and reverse the aging process
He tried to find the secret of eternal youth and happiness
He spent his fortune and his time on science and magic and religion
He finally found the elixir of immortality, but it came with a condition
He had to drink it every day, or else he would expire
He had to live alone, or else he would endanger those he admired
He had to watch the world change, or else he would be left behind
He had to face the fact that he was not meant for life of this kind
He drank the elixir for a while, but soon he felt a void
He missed the joys and pains of living, the things that he had once enjoyed
He longed for the company of others, the ones who understood him
He yearned for the end of his journey, the one that he had begun with
So….
He decided to stop drinking the elixir, and let nature take its course
He wrote a letter to the world, explaining his decision and remorse
He said he was sorry for his selfishness, and thanked everyone for their kindness
He said he was ready to meet his maker, and hoped to find some peace and forgiveness
And..
He lay down on his bed, and closed his eyes, and waited for the final breath
He felt a surge of pain, and then a wave of calm, and then he felt…nothing else
He died with a smile on his face, and a tear in his eye, and a poem in his heart
He died with the knowledge that he had lived enough, and that it was time to depart.
Now this little poem does give away the end of this article.
But I will insist you read on as the body is what will open your eyes to reality and by the time you do reach the end of this article you might have changed your decision.
No body wants to die. I hope we have a consensus on this?
I hear a resounding YES!!
Except from people who have suicidal tendencies for various psychological or health reasons.
They should either rethink their life or go ahead with the one they have decided for themselves, since I am not here to discourage anyone from anything. Period.
But then they will not be reading this article anyways. So.
For as long as humans have existed they have been smitten by the supernatural powers of immortality. So much so that they have portrayed their “Gods” as someone who is immortal.
If HE/SHE had any other powers was not that important.
His/Her immortality was what made them Gods and mortality well made us Human.
The cliched statement ” One who has been born has to die” has been the center of our existence.
Adam Leith Goffner, author of The Book of Immortality says, We should see existence for what it is: composed of as many summers as winters, of both sweetness and tragedy, of beauty pageants as well as degenerative diseases. Why prolong it? We’ve all been granted a life’s time. Ephemeral though it may be, that’s all we get. It’s a brief, extraordinary moment. Let’s make the most of this séjour while it lasts.”
Well that is soon going to change.
Yes!
We are stepping into a new world where death and disease will be a thing of the past.
We will have a choice to decide our own life spans.
But why would anyone decide to live less when they can live…endlessly!
The answer is not that easy to answer.
When you will be served the fabled red pill of endless life you will have these 4 options.
Endless Human life with natural ageing
Endless Human Life with Endless youth with natural ageing
Transhumanism ( Human-Machine interface) with natural ageing
No ageing and Digital Immortality
These four options are , as we speak, subjects of fiction. and many dismiss them as unachievable.
They are those who live under a rock and have not seen autonomous driverless cars, unmanned attack airplanes, unmanned submarines and space probes reaching the edge of our Milky Way.
These things were a subject of fiction a few decades ago and now….here we are….seeing them.
So, its up to you to decide if its fiction and will remain fiction or not!
So lets begin with our choices.
Endless Human life with natural ageing
The current average U.S. life expectancy is 79 years and it is gradually rising. As of 2019, there were an estimated 72,000 centenarians living in the U.S.; the 2020 census officially counted 80,139, and the 2010 census had 53, 364. So people are living longer , as the numbers prove.
Much can be attributed to medical advances to address cancer and other potentially fatal conditions. It has been hypothesized that a cancer cure adds at least 3 years to the life. Such small yet meaningful treatments are fruitful in increasing the life expectancy of the general population.
Humans have made tremendous progress in increasing life expectancy over the past century but as a result we have a population that’s living older and older which puts them at risk for a number of different age-related diseases .
So ironically Aging in and of itself is now becoming the most important risk factor.
Some body has taken note of that and now there is immense research on how to….slow down ageing!
Slowing the pace of aging eventually also inhibit the onset of age-related diseases, delivering not only quantity but also quality of life. The longer people live healthy lives the less time they’ll spend living with illness toward the end of their lives, thus making the whole process meaningful.
“Delayed aging is about adding healthy life years rather than disabled life years,” Dana Goldman, director of the Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics at the University of Southern California.
Some of the nation’s brightest minds and the deepest pockets have declared an all-out war against aging.
Google has made significant investment in Calico, the California Life Company, to advance research into new approaches for extending life. Its main focus will be on biotechnology and will focus more on life extension than disease fighting.
They are aiming at slowing the ageing process. But we will age nonetheless.
And eventually, with age will come its baggage. Disease, Senility, reduced cognition, failing muscle tone, withering memories, incontinent activity, increased dependence on kids/grand-kids/great-grand kids, lonely years in nursing homes and eventually extended end-of-life care on ventilators with tubes pushing and pulling liquids in and out of your body, small chips implanted into the heart making it beat, neural chips keeping your brain functions going and artificial kidneys filtering your blood.
There will be robots taking care of the elderly and they will be the only ones for your emotional support (which by then robots will have in their protocols)
For those who are not at the end of their lives will have exoskeletons supporting them in their mobility and everyday chores like doing groceries and doing the gardens. Small inconspicuous robots will run and hover around the house taking care of the daily chores of cleaning and cooking. They will pills designed to take care of any deficiencies that might occur and to take care that no cancers develop.
Having all said and done , bottom line is, YOU WILL AGE!
And become weak. And even after the best possible facilities that money can buy for you by the time you are 120 or 130 or 150 you will be reduced to a pile of flesh and bones with tubes in every orifice of your body and more chemicals/drugs in your blood than its normal ingredients.
Even at that time, death will not come to pick you up.
But is that the way you would want to stay for ever?
Endless Human Life with Endless youth with natural ageing
So I believe its clear that mere ageing will not lead you to a green pasture of happiness. On the contrary it will be a bigger sorrow than a shorter life.
Suddenly dying young sounds much better than dying very old!! Things will become clear , keep reading!
Somewhere somehow envisioned this possibility and knowingly or unknowingly started working on it.
And still is.
The quest for eternal youth is probably longer than the quest of eternal life.
Nowadays the approach is more scientific, though it was not always the case.
Stanford researchers have shown the joining of circulatory systems (known as parabiosis) between old and young mice to be effective in rejuvenating organs, muscles and stem cells.
Can that work in humans as well?
You may ask, jumping out of your chair.
It has been tried long long back by one, Andreas Libavius, a physician who in 1615( yes ! almost 400 years ago) proposed connecting the arteries of an old man to those of a young man. He hoped that the fountain of youth will flow from the young to the old and all his weakness will be dispelled. The results of that experiment are not known.
But had it been good it would have been a breakthrough of a millenia and we would all be young.
But we are not!
As we speak similar things are being done elsewhere in the world.
The secret of Youth in the Vein
A clinic in San-Fransisco conducted a trial where over 100 patients above the age of 60 years were given two and a half liter of FFP( Fresh frozen Plasma) taken from young people. And the Scientist, Jesse Karmazin,32, trained in Stanford, who conducted it says that the results are promising.
The secret of Youth in the Air
Scientists from Tel-Aviv University say they’ve successfully reversed the aging process of elderly people through “oxygen therapy” in a first-of-its-kind study. They believe they have found the Holy Grail for staying young forever.
Lets assume that by a stroke of serendipity the elixir of eternal youth is found tomorrow.
And we can all have fit bodies devoid of any disease for the next 100 years starting from tomorrow( though its too farfetched to imagine that everyone will have access to that kind of treatment because only the super rich will be able to afford such things and only after a decade or so will it percolate down to general population who might again not be able to buy it. )
but for the sake of science and hypothesis lets assume that you and me can buy it tomorrow.
Now before you rejoice that we have beaten ageing and start imagining that you have escaped disease, senility, reduced cognition, failing muscle tone, withering memories, incontinent activity, increased dependence on kids/grand-kids/great-grand kids, lonely years in nursing homes, eventually extended end-of-life care on ventilators with tubes pushing and pulling liquids in and out of your body, small chips implanted into the heart making it beat, neural chips keeping your brain functions going and artificial kidneys filtering your blood, I am sorry to burst your bubble of happiness.
Though you may be able to live young forever but there is a thing known as generation gap. Have you ever imagined why your parents cannot use the gadget that you think is the simplest one on the planet? Why cannot your grandpa use the simple tv remote when all there is to it are 5 buttons. Why cannot you accept the concepts of your grandparents when they tell you that in their times things were done in a particular way?
That’s called a Generation Gap.
As you grow old your brain grows to follow certain patterns in a certain way. It doesn’t want to change and if new things are imposed on it may or may not be ready to accept them.
Thats why the biggest qualities that one can have today are
Ability to learn new things.
Ability to learn them fast.
If you lack either of these two qualities who are bound to become a relic yourself joining the endless ones that roam the earth these days.
Disclaimer: I do not intend to state that old people cannot learn newer things. They can. But we are talking about the majority.
The hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex, shrink with age. These areas are important for learning, memory, and executive functions. As a result, older adults may have more difficulty encoding new information and updating their existing knowledge.
With grown age human tend to have less synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to change their strength and structure in response to new experiences.
The blood flow in the brain may decrease with age, which can affect the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the brain cells.
Now you may argue that eternal youth will grant us cure against all these things and you may be right. or wrong. Time will tell.
Brain is still one organ of the body that we know very little about.
So i will assume that brain will continue to work as it works as of now. Thus entailing that with each passing 50 years of your life you will be nothing but an outdated bag of information. Much like you learnt DOS and now everything works on Python. Get the drift?
You might argue that you can learn new things since you will have endless life to do that. But would you really want to do that? Delete your brain after every 50 years or even earlier only to fill it up with new information which might be confounding with the one already in the system?
I will leave you with that question to answer.
As your answer will decide at what point of time you choose to not update yourself and that day will become the day when you choose to take the different road into the woods. The one which ends!
Transhumanism ( Human-Machine interface) with natural ageing
If you have been saving your information on your cell phones and data clouds ( much like everyone of us), if you have a pacemaker implanted into your chest sending excitatory signals to your heart periodically, sport carbon-based body modifications called “tattoos,” have replaced worn out joints with ceramic alloy equivalents and as of today have a NeuraLink chip inside your brain you my friend are already a Transhuman.
Congratulations on that!
A Transhuman is any human whose any aspect of humanity can potentially be enhanced and replaced by its technological equivalent. These enhancements can be derived from nanotechnology, biotechnology,
information technology and cognitive science, via tools such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, genetic and stem cell engineering, and cryogenic freezing.
Transhuman is a stage of evolution of Humans to Posthumans, Human 2.0.
Nick Bostrom, the lead scientist on the subject, defines a posthuman as a being that possesses at least one general capacity greatly exceeding the maximum attainable by any current human being without recourse to technological means.
You can understand the concept of a transhuman in the following examples:
A kidney failure patient whose survival depends upon endless dialysis sessions or a transplant gets an artificial kidney which is computer controlled and put inside the body which now functions better than a biological kidney. This patient is now a transhuman.
A patient who has been paralyzed waist down for decades is offered an exoskeleton that can be hooked up to his spinal cord remnants and he gets to walk after decades. He will be a transhuman.
A blind man who lost his eyes in a freak accident years ago is offered a digital eye that can help him see his daughter , his mom and his life again. He is a transhuman.
A war veteran who has lost his legs to a mine explosion gets a pair of mechanized legs that can outperform a normal human athlete. He is a transhuman.
A cardio-pulmonary failure patient gets a complete cardio-pulmonary apparatus that is more compact and efficient than what we have biologically becomes a transhuman.
A paraplegic or someone with a cerebral palsy gets to walk again with mechanized prosthesis is a transhuman.
A person who today received a Neuralink Chip is a transhuman.
The quest of replacing almost all body parts with machines that can outperform the naturally evolved has been there for centuries. Though it has been possible recently to find such superior alternatives to normal biological systems.
Come to think of it , such a method seems a pathway to literal immortality if we are able to replace “all” body parts with mechanized units.
But we as humans are not all blood and bones. Th brain, yes the brain again, is what makes the blood and bones a human. The genius of human evolution is the brain! one which we have not been able to find a replacement for even after so much computing development.
Many scientists are working on this question as they believe that once we know the exact specifications then that can help us replace the human brain.
An experiment done in 2013, used a supercomputer to calculate the human brains computational ability. It took 40 minutes with the combined muscle of 82,944 processors in K computer to get just 1 second of biological brain processing time. While running, the simulation ate up about 1PB of system memory as each synapse was modeled individually.
We are , nonetheless making advancements in the right direction.
Quantum Computing could be the answer for unlocking the secrets of the brain.
Till the day it is done and we can replace the human brain with a ultracompact super-efficient computer we are still living with a biological brain.
We can replace 99% of the human body with machines and make interfaces between neurons and machines so that the unit works seamlessly but we will have that 1% biological component that will be the power station of the 99% of the mechanized body.
It will age , and will not be upgradeable.
Which will take us back to the second condition, Endless Human Life with Endless youth with natural ageing,
And its implications.
Though people might try to find a hint of immortality in being a transhuman but it is unclear that a
vastly extended lifespan would be a benefit to the enhanced.
No ageing and Digital Immortality
Well digital immortality is the conversion of your consciousness into a software which can then be saved, transferred, downloaded, modified and edited as a computer program.
(Remember Neo in Matrix!)
You get the idea.
Now this is what will truly make us immortal.
I cannot say it will make humans immortal because once this happens, humans as we know them will cease to exist.
Which raises the next question, about personal identity!
Once you loose your physical body and are just a program uploaded onto a computer do you still remain, you?
Yes and No!
With the advancement of stem cell technology we can now grow artificial skin to cover any mechanized endoskeleton that we want to make (if we want to make it, that is!) to make us look more human. (Remember Terminator 2!)
So physical form will not be a problem.
There are bigger concerns. I might want to look like Elon Musk much like a million other people. That will raise the problem of identity! Then there will be other who might want to keep changing their identity for some reasons. A woman today a man tomorrow!
And then there will be those who will want to stay as a software and not exist physically. They might want to live only in programs and endless communications routes that will engulf the earth sooner than we think(think StarLink satellite systems). They will present at more than one place at once. they will travel from earth to moon in seconds. They will be the ones who will become interstellar and interplanetary in the true sense.
As an upload you will be truly immortal. You could enhance your self in any way possible by adding code to your software or might want to take off some code that gives your personality some unwanted trait.
All this sounds very fiction.
But I have always believed, ” If one man can think of an idea, the other is already working on it to make it a reality.”
Off course there will be no human body to age so you need not worry about aging. And the brain? Well the world’s best computers will be your brain and the data cloud will be your memory. You will have access to all the information in the world in seconds.
But considering all this, you will have to decide. Are you alive?
The Money
Well money makes the world go around!
So deeper your pockets the quicker the access to all these options when they do become available.
So, as we navigate the potential paths towards immortality, it’s clear that the pursuit of endless life comes with its own set of challenges, choices, and consequences. The whimsical dreams of living forever, free from the grasp of time and mortality, often fail to consider the practicalities and trade-offs involved.
One cannot help but wonder, in this quest for eternal life, who holds the power, and more importantly, who can afford it?
As advancements in science and technology open up possibilities for extending life, the reality is that these options might be reserved for the privileged few, leaving the majority to face the inevitable cycle of life and death.
The irony lies in the fact that while the wealthy may fret over the intricacies of immortality, the less fortunate find solace in the simplicity of a normal lifespan.
It becomes almost comical to imagine a world where the poor can peacefully accept the inevitability of death, while the rich grapple with the complexities of how to navigate an eternity.
As we contemplate these fantastical scenarios and the potential triumph over death, let us not lose sight of the present, where life’s brevity gives it meaning. The pursuit of endless life may be a fascinating concept, but the value of each fleeting moment, with its joys and sorrows, should not be overshadowed by the allure of an eternal existence that remains uncertain and complex.
In the end, the question lingers — is the pursuit of immortality worth sacrificing the essence of what it means to be human?
The article invites you to ponder this question, recognizing that while the desire to live forever is deeply ingrained in human nature, the journey of life, with all its imperfections, is what truly defines our existence.
Human history is marked by pivotal moments that have shaped the course of civilizations, and among these, the advent of agriculture stands as a transformative milestone.
Agriculture has been hailed as the cornerstone of human progress for actually not so long!
Its just been 10,000 years that we stumbled upon agricultural practices and given the time frame of human existence on the planet , which is almost 6,000,000 years, agriculture is a fairly new vice that we are relishing!
The social fabric as we know it, as of today, has been formed due to agriculture when small groups of “weaklings” ( experts might call them smart but to me they were weaklings) started existing together as they had finally found a way for a regular food supply without even stepping into the darkness of the jungles.
They were no longer dependent upon the alphas of the clan/tribe to forage into the unknown only to come back with riches of food. Obviously, they were the ones who got to carry forward the progeny as women were attracted to them as they could provide food and safety to their future kids, not to mention the strength needed in those times to exist.
As they grew in numbers, more and more people joined them, obviously lured by the abundant food supply and a comparative lack of effort required to get it.
The Agricultural “revolution” brought about surplus food reserves and the uncertainty around food was a thing of the past. Or was it?
Could it had been humanity’s most significant misstep?
In exploring this contentious assertion, one has to acknowledge the multifaceted impacts that agriculture has had on human health, nutrition, and the environment as an individual or on the society as a whole.
Today you might leave with your hand in your mouth as rarely has been a blessing called a curse , a hero a villain, a boon a bane.
Health & Nutritional Consequences of Agriculture
1. Hunter-Gatherer’s Varied Diet vs. Early Farmer’s Reliance on Starchy Crops
In the context of dietary practices, Diamond provides a comprehensive analysis of the contrast between the varied diet of hunter-gatherer communities and the dietary transition observed in early agricultural societies.
Diamond underscores the hunter-gatherer lifestyle characterized by a diverse and flexible diet derived from a plethora of plant and animal sources. This dietary diversity is integral to the nomadic lifestyle, enabling these communities to adapt to the seasonal availability of resources and environmental fluctuations.
Worth noting is the anatomic evolution that had happened to the human body where it lost tyhe length of the large intestine and ended up having a longer small intestine which was needed to support the nomadic feast-or-famine eating lifestyle of the human. Its purpose was to provide maximum absorptive surface area and minimal storage after digestion.
The hunter-gatherers had an immensely varied diet which depended upon season and availability of food.
Contrary to the adaptive and diversified diet of hunter-gatherers, early agricultural societies underwent a profound dietary shift.
The focus shifted predominantly towards the cultivation and consumption of starchy crops such as wheat, rice, and corn. Diamond illuminates this pivotal transition, emphasizing the agricultural practices that led to the cultivation of a limited number of staple crops.
Diamond’s work provides a foundational understanding of the dietary dynamics at play during the shift from hunting and gathering to agriculture.
2. Reliance on limited plants and its consequences
Relying exclusively on three high-carbohydrate plants—wheat, rice, and corn—that lack certain essential nutrients raises significant concerns regarding the nutritional value of human diets. The limited diversity in these staple crops results in a specific set of nutritional deficiencies, which can have direct implications for human health.
One notable consequence is the insufficient intake of essential vitamins and amino acids necessary for overall well-being.
These crops, while serving as primary sources of calories, lack a comprehensive range of nutrients required for optimal human nutrition.
Wheat:
Essential Amino Acids: Wheat is deficient in lysine, an essential amino acid. While wheat contains protein, it is not considered a complete protein source due to this deficiency.
Micronutrients: Wheat is generally lower in micronutrients like vitamins and minerals compared to some other grains.
Rice:
Micronutrients: Brown rice contains more nutrients than white rice, but both are relatively low in essential nutrients. They lack some important vitamins and minerals.
Fiber: While brown rice has more fiber than white rice, both types are considered low in fiber compared to whole grains.
Corn:
Protein Quality: Corn protein is deficient in certain essential amino acids, particularly lysine and tryptophan. It is not a complete protein source.
Micronutrients: Corn is not particularly rich in vitamins and minerals compared to other grains.
The deficiency in vital vitamins and amino acids lead to nutritional imbalances, potentially contributing to health issues such as vitamin deficiencies and protein inadequacies.
The narrow focus on these high-carbohydrate plants also overlooked the potential benefits of a more varied diet. Different plants contain distinct micronutrients, and a diversified selection of food of Paleolithic human, contributed to a broader spectrum of essential vitamins and amino acids.
It had a lower glycemic load( due to low carbohydrate density of food)
It had higher fiber levels
it had more protein and less carbohydrates
it had more vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals
The fatty acid intake was different (higher omega-3s, lower omega-6s, more highly unsaturated fatty acids of both omega-3s and omega-6s, lower trans fatty acids, higher monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids)
For those who follow diets this is the basis of a Paleo Diet devised by Cordain Loren.
Researchers argue that our genes simply haven’t caught up with the dietary divergence and it could be causing – or at least contributing to- the epidemic levels of chronic disease, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity that we see today.
For the ones who swear by the concept of balanced diet, here is a kicker.
The preagricultural diet, contrary to popular belief of being “less” balanced than that of today , was actually more balanced. Actually the concept of balanced diet came up only when the researchers saw that what we were consuming was not the right diet that the humans needed.
Why do you think there is emphasis on more fiber intake( reduce glycemic load), more water( means less sodium is concentrated in the body), more greens( more phytochemicals), fish( more better fatty acids), more fruits( more minerals, more vitamins, more potassium).
The pre-agricultural humans had a much broader pattern of food consumption and though they may have been facing times of famine/starvation , overall when they were consuming the variety was vast, and so it was more balanced.
Compare it to today’s dietary habits where you have a small selection of superfoods. we are just dependent on wheat, rice and corn. Where is the balanced diet we want?
Currently, hundreds of diseases with no definite etiology inflict humanity, (diseases such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis). An increasing body of evidence is now holding diet as the environmental trigger that might be responsible for the development of these diseases in genetically susceptible individuals( and we discussed humans have had not enough time to evolve genetically to adapt to this new diet of the post agricultural era)
Even more shocking is the fact that the dietary factors in all of these diseases are foods and food groups introduced after the advent of agriculture.
If that’s not enough Archaeologists have unearthed bodies of humans that belong to the pre and post agricultural eras.
Surprisingly, the bodies found after the agriculture, supposedly provided good food supply, were found to be deficient in calcium and iron.
This shows that the early agricultural societies transitioned their dietary focus towards starchy crops, providing a reliable source of abundant calories. However, this shift came at the cost of compromising the overall nutritional value of the diet.
This historical analysis, grounded in paleopathological evidence, significantly contributes to our comprehension of the intricate relationship between dietary choices, nutritional value, and the overall health and well-being of early agricultural societies.
So ,it is clear now that, agriculture is killing us gradually.
We are living in an age of chronic diseases. Obesity, hypertension and diabetes are like life long companions to our new borns. Heart attacks in the 20sis now a “normal” thing.
Would it have been different if we stayed hunter gatherers? Or are we taking enough steps to reverse the ill doings of agriculture? Have we crossed the point of no return and humans will form the fifth mass extinction on planet earth?
We will get to that at the end of the discussion as its not just nutrition that spoiled the whole progress og humanity but other things as well.
This leads to the disruption of nutrient cycling within the soil.
Further , forests are being cut to make way for agricultural land as our population continues to grow.
The conversion of natural lands to agricultural uses is a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystems.
Later, the exclusive cultivation of a single crop can lead to imbalances, ultimately diminishing the overall fertility of the soil.
Monoculture is intricately linked to
landscape simplification
encapsulating the expansion of cultivated land
the reduction of plant species diversity across landscapes
alterations in biotic interactions
the implementation of highly intensive management practices.
These simplification processes are pervasive across various levels, occurring at the field, farm, landscape, and regional scales. Monocultures consistently exert detrimental effects on species richness when compared to alternative land uses. Furthermore, these monocultures contribute minimally to natural habitat creation.
This interconnected web of consequences emphasizes the broad-ranging impact of monoculture, extending from localized ecosystems to larger regional landscapes.
Furthermore, our discussion extends to the structural integrity of the soil under the persistent influence of monoculture. Insights from researchers from world over provide valuable perspectives on how monoculture contributes to soil compaction, diminishing porosity, water retention, and nutrient accessibility. These alterations in soil structure not only impede the optimal growth of crops but also amplify the vulnerability of agricultural landscapes to erosion and degradation.
And..it will not be rocket science to understand what erosion and degradation of our lands will do to humanity. But still , laying it out for you:
Reduced Productivity
Threat to Food Supply
Sedimentation in Water Bodies
Climate Change
Habitat Destruction
Infrastructure Damage
Increased Vulnerability to Natural Disasters
Shrinking Agricultural Land
Dust and Air Quality
Conflict Over Resources
These will definitely not help humanity.
Will it?
Societal Vulnerability and Economic Impact
1.The Risk of Starvation due to Dependence on a Limited Number of Crops
History is our best guide and teacher.
Historical instances of societies facing severe crises and the imminent threat of starvation due to crop failures are numerous. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Irish Potato Famine (1845-1852)
The Irish Potato Famine was a devastating period in Ireland when a potato blight led to the failure of the primary food crop, the potato.
The ensuing famine resulted in the death and emigration of millions of people, significantly impacting Irish society.
2. Great Chinese Famine (1959-1961)
A combination of natural disasters, including droughts and floods, coupled with misguided agricultural policies, led to a severe famine in China.
The Great Chinese Famine caused the deaths of tens of millions of people and had profound social and economic consequences.
3. Bengal Famine of 1943
During World War II, Bengal, India faced a severe famine exacerbated by a combination of factors, including Japanese occupation, natural disasters, and mismanagement of resources.
The famine resulted in the deaths of millions of people and had lasting impacts on the region.
4. Dust Bowl (1930s, United States)
The Dust Bowl was a series of severe dust storms that ravaged the Southern Plains of the United States during the 1930s.
Poor agricultural practices, coupled with drought, led to widespread crop failures, soil erosion, and economic hardship for many farming communities.
5. North Korean Famine (1990s)
In the 1990s, North Korea experienced a severe famine due to a combination of natural disasters, economic mismanagement, and the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The famine resulted in widespread starvation and had long-term effects on the country’s population.
These instances highlight the vulnerability of societies to food shortages and famine when heavily reliant on a limited number of crops or when facing adverse environmental conditions. They underscore the importance of diversified agriculture, sustainable practices, and effective food distribution systems in ensuring food security and preventing humanitarian crises.
So when we look back in history where societies faced severe crises and the imminent threat of starvation due to crop failures it will become evident that a hunter gatherer was not faced with such extreme starvations as they depended upon varied types of foods. The modern human unfortunately doesn’t have that privilege.
2.The Social and Economic Shifts Brought About by Agriculture
a.the Impact of Crowded Societies on the Spread of Infectious Diseases:
The shift towards agriculture led to the formation of crowded societies and the subsequent increased risk of infectious diseases.
If we analyze historical patterns to understand the correlation between population density, agriculture, and disease spread.
**The Impact of Crowded Societies on the Spread of Infectious Diseases:**
The transition to agriculture marked a pivotal point in human history, influencing not only societal structures but also contributing to the formation of crowded settlements. This shift from nomadic lifestyles to settled agricultural communities brought about a complex interplay between population density, agricultural practices, and the increased risk of infectious diseases.
Historical Patterns and Correlation
1. Sedentary Lifestyle and Population Density
As communities adopted agriculture, the sedentary lifestyle allowed for larger and more concentrated populations. This increased population density created favorable conditions for the transmission of infectious diseases.
2. Domestication of Animals
The practice of agriculture often involved the domestication of animals, leading to closer human-animal interactions. This proximity created opportunities for zoonotic diseases (diseases transmitted between animals and humans) to jump species barriers, contributing to the spread of new infections.
Crowded societies, often lacking advanced sanitation infrastructure, faced challenges in waste disposal and maintaining clean water sources. These conditions provided breeding grounds for waterborne and vector-borne diseases.
4. Trade Networks and Disease Transmission
Crowded settlements engaged in trade, facilitating the movement of goods and people across regions. This interconnectedness played a role in the rapid spread of infectious diseases along trade routes.
5. Crowding and Respiratory Infections
The close proximity of individuals in crowded settings increased the likelihood of respiratory infections spreading. Diseases such as influenza found ideal conditions for transmission in densely populated areas.
b.The Interconnectedness of Crowded Societies and Agriculture
Assessing the intricate relationship between crowded societies and agricultural practices makes us realize how the concentration of populations in dense settlements, often driven by agricultural practices, facilitated the spread of diseases and altered societal dynamics.
Population Density and Agricultural Practices
1. Urbanization and Agricultural Surpluses
The advent of agriculture allowed for the generation of food surpluses, enabling the growth of larger populations. As surplus food could sustain non-farming populations, urbanization became possible, leading to the formation of crowded cities.
2. Specialization and Trade
Agricultural surpluses facilitated specialization, with individuals engaging in professions beyond farming. Trade networks developed, connecting crowded urban centers with agricultural hinterlands. This symbiotic relationship between agriculture and urban centers influenced economic and cultural exchanges.
2. Technological Advancements
The demands of sustaining crowded populations drove technological advancements in agriculture. Innovations such as irrigation, crop rotation, and animal domestication emerged to meet the needs of growing urban centers.
Potential Implications for the End of Humanity:
The interplay of societal vulnerability and economic impact, rooted in the dependence on a limited number of crops and the social shifts brought about by agriculture, can have profound consequences that may pose existential threats to humanity.
Food Scarcity and Societal Collapse:
Overreliance on a narrow range of crops makes societies vulnerable to crop failures, which historically have led to famine and societal collapse. The potential for widespread food scarcity, aggravated by factors such as climate change and monoculture practices, could intensify the risk of societal breakdown.
Pandemics and Population Decline:
Crowded societies, a consequence of agricultural practices, create favorable conditions for the spread of infectious diseases. Covid-19 cases worldwide stood at 774,075,242 reportedcases on 7 January 2024. The pandemic continues.
Covid-19 had proved that right , if anyone had any doubts about occurence of a Pandemic( I did. Had always read about pandemic in Medical School but never had I ever thought of witnessing one, let alone being one of the sufferers)
Economic impacts stemming from agricultural vulnerabilities, such as crop failures, can trigger social unrest and instability. This, coupled with the interconnectedness of agriculture and societal structures, may result in a domino effect affecting global economies and governance.
Environmental Degradation and Resource Depletion:
Intensive agricultural practices, when unsustainable, contribute to environmental degradation and resource depletion. The long-term consequences may lead to a collapse of ecosystems and essential resources, further exacerbating the challenges faced by humanity.
While these scenarios represent extreme possibilities, they underscore the importance of addressing agricultural practices, promoting sustainable food systems, and understanding the intricate connections between societal vulnerability, economic impact, and the potential risks to the continuity of human civilization.
Contemporary Relevance: Modern Agricultural Challenges
A. Connection of Historical Data to Present-Day Agricultural Practices
1. Parallels Between Early Agriculture and Current Challenges
Drawing parallels between historical agricultural practices and contemporary challenges provides valuable insights. For example, the historical reliance on a limited number of crops and monoculture practices can be compared to present-day agricultural systems that face similar issues.
Parallel 1: Monoculture Practices:
The historical trend of relying on a few staple crops, as observed in early agriculture, has persisted in modern monoculture practices. Large-scale cultivation of a limited number of crops for global food production remains a challenge, impacting biodiversity, soil health, and resilience to pests and diseases.
Parallel 2: Environmental Impact:
Early agricultural practices contributed to environmental changes, and today, modern agriculture faces challenges related to environmental degradation, deforestation, and excessive use of agrochemicals. The parallels highlight the importance of sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate negative environmental impacts.
2. Potential Consequences of Continued Reliance on a Limited Number of Crops
Examining the potential consequences of continued reliance on a narrow range of crops is crucial for addressing current challenges and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Consequence 1: Genetic Vulnerability:
Continued dependence on a limited number of crops heightens the risk of genetic vulnerability. This makes crops susceptible to diseases and pests, posing a threat to global food security. Diversifying crop varieties can enhance resilience and reduce the risk of widespread crop failures.
Consequence 2: Soil Health and Nutrient Depletion:
Monoculture practices contribute to soil degradation and nutrient depletion. Exploring ways to promote diverse crop rotations, cover cropping, and agroecological approaches is essential for maintaining soil health and fertility in the long term.
Consequence 3: Climate Change Resilience:
A limited crop variety may be less resilient to the impacts of climate change. Identifying and implementing climate-resilient crops and farming practices is crucial for adapting to changing climatic conditions.
Connecting historical data to present-day agricultural practices allows us to learn from past challenges and devise sustainable solutions. By identifying parallels and discussing potential consequences, we can develop strategies to address modern agricultural challenges and move towards a more resilient and environmentally sustainable food system.
The Echoes of Our Agricultural
As we navigate the fields of our past, tilling the soil of ancient choices, we unearth the profound echoes of humanity’s biggest mistake – agriculture.
The seeds we sowed in those distant days have grown into a complex tapestry, woven with both sustenance and thorns.
In the quiet rustle of the wind through golden wheat fields, one can almost hear the whispers of our ancestors, whose quest for stability birthed a paradigm that now tests the very foundations of our existence. The same fields that once promised abundance now carry the weight of our agricultural legacy, a legacy etched with stories of both triumph and despair.
As we stand at the crossroads of progress and reflection, let the haunting silhouette of our past stand against the horizon be a reminder. The same fertile grounds that yielded civilizations now challenge us to redefine our relationship with the land beneath our feet.
In the gentle sway of crops, we discern the heartbeat of an Earth burdened by the consequences of our choices.
The realization echoes like a distant thunder – agriculture, the double-edged scythe that brought sustenance and shackles, is a tale etched in the soil. The mistake, not in the quest for sustenance, but in the unchecked path we carved, leaving behind a landscape that bears witness to both our triumphs and our follies.
So, as we plow the fields of tomorrow, let the furrows be lined with seeds of wisdom.
For in acknowledging our missteps, we find the courage to cultivate a future where the soil sustains not just our hunger, but our harmonious coexistence with the Earth. The goosebumps rise not in fear of our past but in the anticipation of a new chapter – a chapter where we learn from the fields we planted, nurture diversity, and, in doing so, unearth the promise of a more balanced and sustainable existence.
Can you fathom the thought that the very basic function that keeps us alive is being done wrong by us day after day , every day of our lives?
Its not eating!!!!
Which you obviously know YOU ARE DOING WRONG! All thanks to the social media influencers selling tricks for loosing belly fats, gaining glute muscles in a week or those silly challenges of getting you 6 pack abs.( I consider them silly because the people who follow them do believe that 30 days of 5 minute exercise will negate their life time of hogging shit!)
It infuriates me.
Makes me think where in the world is their common sense.
Or is it that expecting common sense these days is ironically the lack of common sense????
Anyways!
Getting back, so the thing that you are doing wrong, and nobody is talking about is BREATHING!
Yes, you read that right, you are inhaling and exhaling the wrong way.
Now before you call me names and challenge my knowledge, answer these simple looking questions.
Do you think breathings is a voluntary / involuntary act?
How many times do you breathe in a minute (Count it right now and you might get the right answer.)
Do you exercise?
Do you swim?
Do you run?
Are you finding ways to avoid playing with your kids because they drain you out quickly and you are left with hands on your knees gasping for air??
Yes…. I am sure I hit a few strings there ….and that must have sounded some notes in your head.
If yes, read on!
No one teaches us to breathe!
Have you ever been taught by your mom to breathe in a certain manner?
Has your dad asked you to inhale for a certain time?
Other than your swimming instructor has anyone else asked you to hold your breath, focus on your breathing?
Has your gym personal trainer ever guided you to inhale for a certain range of movement and warned you against certain movement during a certain period of your respiratory cycle????
I am darn sure that the answer to most , if not all, questions is ……………………………………………………..What Nonsense? Why will any one teach me how to breathe? I am alive because I am doing it right!
In which case you are probably doing it the best you can and you are one the wrong page of self realization and self discovery!
Click away! Go get your brain anesthetised by those Insta stories or YoobToob Shorts
Have a good one mate.
Wiser ones will answer a…………….. Simple No and will want to find out why I am talking about it!
There are a wide variety of research going on how to breathe and most of them have confounding results. Some encourage deep breathing whereas other condemn it.
Some think “Normal ” breathing is err….normal and other think otherwise.
What holds significance is the duration of these studies and there effects. Most of these studies have been done on a cross section of population. More often than not they were conducted on people who were having respiratory ailments as they were the ones available… easily.
Now before you start roasting me/ have already crucified me in your heads please keep reading and it will all make sense…eventually!
A few, surely, have been done on healthy subjects as well but then the duration for which these things have been studied is too short and the sample size too small to accept the conclusions of these hypothesis.
I being a scientist doesn’t believe anything and everything that a book says ( That book can be any book, mind you!) unless I can find conclusive evidence that the text mentioned in that book can be scientifically proven or experienced.
EVIDENCE IN NATURE
Ok, lets get to the main issue.
How long does a Turtle Live?
How long does an African Elephant live?
How long does a Dog live?
And that little rat?
And an average human being?
Ok now keep those answers in your head and soon the fog of confusion will wither away, and you will see the horizon crystal clear!
Humans breathe at a rate of 12-16 breaths per minute. They usually inhale for 3-5 second and inhale like in 2-3 seconds.
That’s average.
Not talking about a conditioned sportsman or that one fellow who can ,for the sake of challenge, inhale and inhale till he drops down. Almost dead!.
So its for “normal” people.
Now its your turn.
How often do you breathe? (Sounds silly but then that’s the whole story about. Making you realize that it might be the most important question you were ever asked!)
Now if you are in the normal group then its ok and you can continue reading further.
If you are breathing more than the “normal” person then you ,my dear, are heading towards a wall at an astronomical velocity.
That wall my friend is called death. (which will finally get to all of us but you, are in a hurry to reach it. (literally and metaphorically!))
So, if want to slow down you should not only read this but make it your bible and practice it like a damn religion. Without question and full commitment!
So, like 5000 years ago or even before that (no one knows the exact date) some seers passed down their teachings to their disciples and few of them finally converted them to written texts.
They talked about uniting the body, the mind and the spirit.
Those teachings were meant to help the practitioner over come disease and suffering and evolve spiritually to a state of liberation.
They stated, “When the breath is unsteady, all is unsteady; when the breath is still, all is still.”
What the West has come to now as breathwork exercises are basically methods taken from the Eastern cultures where emphasis was laid on breath awareness, above everything else.
Anāpānasati refers to the mindfulness of breathing. It is the most important part of Buddhism meditation. Arguably Buddhism also originated and flourished during the same time when Yoga was spreading as a method of meditation and of becoming mindful of oneself. So, some believe Buddhism also adopted Yogic Principles in its teachings.
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial and revolves around meditation and movement, and among its five key elements are Neigong and Qigong, both of which prominently feature working with the breath. The commonest technique is called Crane Breathing.
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that aims to bring harmony throughout the body by focusing on the breath , a method called “PRANA-YAMA”.
In Sanskrit, prana means “vital life force” and yama means “control”.
The controlling of breath is considered to be the key to quietening the mind and gaining higher consciousness.
Just so that you know a few names who do practice Yoga are- Lebron James, Sting, Jon Bon Jovi, Chris Hemsworth and our very own Iron-man aka Robert Downy Jr.
That was to exemplify why breathing is so very important and more than just doing it, doing it right is even more so!
The 1:1?
So what are we doing and where are we going wrong?
I will keep it simple for you.
No tech-talk.
Heart-to-heart!
Ok lets see… what we do is a shallow 1-3 second inspiration and a rapid 1-3 second exhalation.
Go on check for yourself.
It will be even lesser if you are sitting most part of the day , have no fitness regime, and have grown a beer belly over the pandemic.
Well here is what we do
1:1
quick inspiration and if not an equally expiration then definitely a shorter expiration than our inspiration.
So basically, we are running through a quick succession of motor activities “unknowingly” not utilizing our complete lung capacity and all the nooks and corners of our inflatable gas exchanging apparatus.
Go through the scientific text while you sit on your comfy couch scrolling through endless stories and shorts , that humans only use the middle part of their lungs for respiration and most of the diseases effect the upper and the lower parts of the lung.
Why?
Because they don’t get enough air(and hence oxygen) to fight against the diseases.
Breath Awareness vs Excessive breaths (Hyperventilation)
The first thing that breath awareness exercises teach us, is becoming “aware” of your lack of proper usage of your lungs.
They teach that you have to inspire deeper and longer and make use of the alveolar real estate you have in your chests.
But what they don’t teach is to over do it.
At least Yoga doesn’t. It wants you to be comfortable in whatever you ae doing. Pushing and hurting your body is definitely not its aim.
People who know a little bit about wellness know what I mean!
You are not being advised to breath faster and more frequently.
Rather on the contrary you are being asked to breathe less!
What???
I just said you are not breathing enough and now I am asking you to breathe less!!!!
I must be mad!!!
Well, apparently not!
By breathing less you are not being asked to deprive your divine gift (your body, off course! ) of the source of life, the air!
Breathing less means spending more time in your efforts of breathing.
Reducing the frequency of your breaths.
The concept of 1:4:2
Well, it might be a bit daunting for you to think of scaling the Everest but people who commit to it have scaled it many times over.
Same is true for everything!
Even your breathing can be modulated “voluntarily’ and your brain conditioned to do the same ” involuntarily”
So what is this mumbo jumbo 1:4:2?
Remember the 1:1?
Now inspirational and expiration were equal?
Here nothing is equal.
You inspire for what ever time you can/want.
Then ( hold on to your knickers!) you hold your breath for 4 times the duration of your inhalation.
and once you have been able to hold it for that duration you exhale “Slowly” for twice the duration you inspired.
Sounds Crazy?
Well its not.
( The practitioners of Yoga can Inspire for 10 seconds , Hold for 40 seconds and exhale for 20 seconds…that’s a single breath lasting for more than a minute!! )
Once I tell you this technique can add years to your life.
Now who wouldn’t want that??
If you have noticed there is emphasis on breath retention.
Retaining breath trains your mind and body. How?
Let’s see.
Your body is currently used to breathing in- breathing out and using whatever oxygen you are giving it.
The lungs are not being used at their optimum level. so available oxygen is not at optimum level.
Now you will argue my saturation is 97% or 98%.( Covid made us all self indulged, self-proclaimed , to some extent self-sustained medical professionals.)
And You are right.
But its not just the saturation in the blood that matters. Its the amount that reaches the tissue and then the amount the tissue can actually use for its own good.
The sooner your body takes up oxygen the sooner it throws out the carbon dioxide ,sometimes even not using the small amount of oxygen you gave it.
Now!
What the 1:4:2 does is that it makes you to inspire deeper( because if you don’t you will not go through the 4:2 as well.)
Use all those small pockets of air in your lungs ( called alveoli) for more exchange of gases between interior and exterior of the body.
You inspire more so more oxygen will be carried by the blood.
Then when you “retain” it the oxygen so available in the blood is exchanged better between the blood and the tissue (as now it has more time , you see!)
Once the appropriate exchange has happened and you expire SLOWLY you do so in a controlled manner thus taking control of your breathing.
Slow exhalation also is anxiolytic. It sooths your body and brain.
But I cannot always do this 1:4:2 in the daily routine. You would say!
And you wouldn’t be wrong in saying that!
It’s not supposed to be your breathing pattern normally.
These breathing exercises are supposed to train your muscles and more importantly your body that it has to function in a certain way.
And here is where the question of is breathing voluntary or not is answered.
Its involuntary for most people but you can voluntarily make it work in a manner that it will remember to do the same involuntarily.
Muscle memory, in lay man terms.
The deeper you breathe and slower you breath the more your body utilizes the oxygen, making you feel relieved and stress free.
Stress reduces life expectancy.
Anything that reduces stress increases your life.
So, we are finally agreeing on things. Let’s keep going then!
Chest is the body part meant for breathing! Not so!
Well, you couldn’t have been more wrong!
We have been influenced by Youtubers and the chiseled body influencers that you breath into your chest and tuck in your abdomen/belly.
A bulging belly is now a stigma.
Let’s see what breathing through your chest does:
Breathing with “just” the chest or the shoulders restricts you from using your complete lung capacity.
A lung is supposed to inflate like a balloon. It has to expand outwards(chest), upwards(shoulders) and also downwards(belly) to inflate properly.
Imagine you restricting the belly movement.
That can have some serious effects-
As the diaphragm contracts it flattens out. In the process it causes the pressure in the abdominal cavity to increase( that’s what makes you defecate / urinate) now if the abdominal muscles relax the abdominal pressure is dispelled and the lungs expand further. This continues until the abdominal muscles have been stretched to their very limit when a reflex contraction of abdominal muscles happens reversing the whole process along with the relaxation of the diaphragm.
Now what happens if you don’t use your belly for breathing?
The intra-abdominal pressure stays increased with each breath and a persistent increase in this pressure can lead to hernias.
This is in addition to the incomplete breathing you subject yourself to.
Breathing with the chest or the shoulders only will create tension and stiffness in the neck and the upper back thus affecting your posture and spinal alignment.
Why use your Belly for Breathing?
One is for the good breathing cycle and the effects as we have discussed just now.
There is more?
Yes, absolutely!
Breathing through the belly moves and massages your internal organs and stimulate the vagus nerve, which can improve the digestive and the nervous systems.
Pancreatic movement and massage is known to release more insulin thus helping you lower blood sugar levels.
Sugar levels are known to be a causative factor in development of many cancers.
Cancers reduce life, don’t they?
Anything that prevents Cancers increases life, eventually.
Makes sense now?
Read on. There is more.
Your Mouth is meant for eating! Not breathing!
Another shocker?
You must be, “Che cosa? Ho fatto tutto sbagliato nella mia vita?”.
(Translates into: What??? Have I done everything wrong in my life?”
Maybe yes. Maybe No.
You are not supposed to inhale or exhale through your mouth and if you have been then……
You got that right!!!
…you have been doing it wrong AS WELL!
The breathing apparatus of our body starts with our nose and ends with it.
A quick science lesson.
A nose filters, humidifies and warms the air that goes into your lung.
Your mouth doesn’t!!
While exhaling if you breath out through your nose your sinuses get ventilated and cleared.
If you breath out through your mouth none of that happens.
Further, people who are nose breathers have lesser incidence of developing allergies and hay fever in life.
And so that is another thing that you can do right.
BREATHE THROUGH YOUR NOSE! KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT WHEN BREATHING!
The Benefits of Breathing Correctly
And we come to how you ca increase your life expectancy by giving up wrong breathing habbits….
1. Stress Reduction
Deep breathing triggers the body’s relaxation response, which helps to lower stress levels. By focusing on your breath and taking slow, deep breaths, you can calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
LOWER STRESS = MORE YEARS
2. Improved Oxygenation
Proper breathing allows for better oxygenation of the blood, which is essential for the optimal functioning of our organs and tissues. When we breathe deeply, we increase the oxygen supply to our brain, muscles, and cells, boosting our energy levels and overall well-being.
BETTER OXYGENATION OF THE BODY= MORE EFFICIENT FUNCTIONING = BETTER LIFE
3. Enhanced Focus and Concentration
When we breathe shallowly, our brain receives less oxygen, leading to a lack of focus and mental clarity. Deep breathing improves cognitive function, helping us to stay alert, focused, and productive.
BETTER BRAIN FUNCTION = BETTER LIFE
4. Boosted Immune System
Deep breathing stimulates the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing toxins and waste from our bodies. By improving lymphatic flow, proper breathing supports a healthy immune system, reducing the risk of illness and promoting overall wellness.
BETTER IMMUNE FINCTION = LONGER LIFE
5. Improved Digestion
Deep belly breathing massages the organs in our digestive system, promoting better digestion and absorption of nutrients. It can also help to alleviate digestive issues such as bloating and constipation.
BETTER DIGESTION = BETTER EVERYTHING
Tips for Incorporating Proper Breathing into Your Daily Routine
Now that you understand, I suppose, the importance of breathing correctly, it’s time to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Here are a few simple tips:
Set aside a few minutes each day for deep breathing exercises. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath. GYM IS NOT THE RIGHT PLACE. Too much noise!
Practice the 1:4:2 breathing pattern mentioned earlier. Inhale for one count, hold for four counts, and exhale for two counts. CAN DO EVEN WHILE COMMUTING TO WORK.
Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. As you breathe, ensure that your belly rises and falls with each breath, while your chest remains relatively still. DO THIS EARLY MORNING OR AT BED TIME. This can be modified by isolating belly movements from chest movements and vice versa.
Consider incorporating mindfulness or meditation into your routine. YOGA HAS BEEN THERE FOR MORE THAN 5000 YEARS, SO YOU CANNOT GO WRONG WITH IT. These practices often emphasize deep breathing as a way to cultivate presence and relaxation.
Remember, breathing is something we do unconsciously every day, but by bringing awareness to our breath and practicing proper breathing techniques, we can unlock its full potential and experience the numerous benefits it offers.
So take a deep breath, relax, and let your breath be your guide to a healthier, happier you.
And remember that the journey to your goal becomes easier when you find a reason good enough.
“Have you ever wondered about the intricate tapestry that makes up your sense of self?
Do you ever think about your gender but don’t know how to approach the question?
Have you ever had any second thoughts about yourself?
The journey of self-discovery is a unique and deeply personal experience, and within it lies the exploration of one’s gender identity.
This questionnaire aims to provide a reflective space for you to ponder the various facets that contribute to your understanding of gender.
By delving into questions about identity, expression, and personal experiences, we hope to shed light on the diverse and nuanced ways individuals perceive and express their gender.
The goal is to create a thoughtful and introspective process that helps you better understand your own feelings and experiences with gender.
If you’re exploring your own gender identity, it’s important to approach the process with self-reflection and self-discovery. Your honest responses will contribute to your better understanding of the rich spectrum of gender identities. So, let’s embark on this introspective journey together.
Here’s an elaborate questionnaire that you can use for personal reflection:
Personal Gender Identity Exploration Questionnaire
When do you feel most comfortable and authentic in terms of your gender expression?
Reflect on situations where you feel most “yourself” in terms of gender.
How do you feel about your assigned gender at birth?**
Options:
Very comfortable,
somewhat comfortable
neutral,
somewhat uncomfortable
very uncomfortable.
Have you ever questioned or considered a gender identity different from the one assigned to you at birth?
Options:
Yes
No
Not sure
How do societal expectations around gender impact your thoughts and feelings about yourself?
Reflect on how external expectations influence your self-perception.
Traditional Gender Roles
Appearance and Dress Code
Behavior and Emotional Expression
Occupational Roles
Parental Roles
Household Responsibilities
Social Interactions
Leadership and Authority
Sexual Orientation
Education and Academic Pursuits
Body Image
Reproductive Rights and Choices
Athletic and Physical Abilities
Expression of Power and Agency
Compliance with Gender Norms
What aspects of gender expression or identity do you find most important to you personally?
Open-ended response or use the following options:
Gender Identity
Pronouns
Gender Expression
Clothing and Fashion
Hairstyle and Grooming
Body Language and Mannerisms
Speech and Voice
Name and Title
Social Roles
Interests and Hobbies
Relationships and Intimacy
Cultural and Religious Affiliation
Medical Transition
Community and Affiliation
Are there specific experiences or feelings related to your gender that you find challenging or confusing?
Reflect on any internal conflicts or uncertainties.
They might be some unfulfilled desires of wearing some dress, donning a particular attire, adorning some particular hair-do or carrying a particular fashion accessory.
How would you like others to perceive and acknowledge your gender identity?
Open-ended response.
What role does your gender identity play in your overall sense of self?
Options:
Very important
Somewhat important
Neutral
Not very important
Not important at all.
Is there anything else you would like to explore or express about your gender identity?
Open-ended response.
How do you feel about your body in relation to your gender identity?
Explore any positive or negative feelings you may have about your physical self.
Have you found certain role models or representations in media that resonate with your gender identity?
Consider how external influences have shaped your understanding of gender.
That can be a particular renowned personality who has been brave enough to come out in the public accepting their thoughts and feelings.
Do you feel a sense of belonging or connection with a particular gender community or communities?
Reflect on any communities that you feel drawn to or identify with.
How do you navigate discussions about gender with friends, family, or colleagues?
Consider how your gender identity influences your communication with others.
Do you feel comforatble or uncomfortable while discussing about gender with friends , family or colleagues and you have this sense of insecurity that they are talking about you?? Or you will be judges if your secret came out ?
What emotions or thoughts arise when you imagine expressing your gender identity authentically in various aspects of your life?
Empowerment
Joy and Happiness
Relief
Nervousness or Anxiety
Freedom
Validation
Fear of Judgment
Self-Discovery
Vulnerability
Pride
Connection
Curiosity
Hope
Resilience
Excitement
Reflect on the emotional aspects of expressing your gender identity.
Are there specific cultural or religious beliefs that impact your understanding of gender?
-Consider how cultural or religious perspectives may influence your feelings about gender.
Interpretation of Gender Ambiguity or Non-Binary Identities
Cultural Practices Related to Birth and Naming Ceremonies
Views on Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination
Have you experienced moments of clarity or confusion regarding your gender identity at different points in your life?
Reflect on any shifts or changes in your understanding of your gender over time.
How would you describe your ideal or authentic expression of your gender identity?
Envisioning the ideal state can help clarify your feelings and desires.
Are there aspects of your gender identity that you feel ready to explore further?
Identify areas where you may want to engage in more self-exploration.
Gender Identity
Pronouns
Gender Expression
Clothing and Fashion
Hairstyle and Grooming
Body Language and Mannerisms
Speech and Voice
Name and Title
Social Roles
Interests and Hobbies
Relationships and Intimacy
Cultural and Religious Affiliation
Medical Transition
Community and Affiliation
How do you envision your relationship with your gender identity evolving in the future?
Consider your long-term goals and aspirations related to your gender identity.
The goal is to create a thoughtful and introspective process that helps you better understand your own feelings and experiences with gender.
In conclusion, your participation in this questionnaire is a significant step towards recognizing and understanding the diverse spectrum of gender identities.
Thank you for your thoughtful participation, and may this knowledge empower you to contribute positively to the broader conversation around gender diversity.
Swami Vivekananda‘s teachings continue to inspire and hold significance.
They emphasize self-realization, the importance of action, compassion, and the recognition of divinity in every individual—values that remain timeless and applicable to our lives today.
Here are the 10 best quotes that will make your 2024 worthwhile.
“Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached.”
Get up, stay motivated, and don’t quit until you’ve achieved what you set out to do.
Take action and persevere.
Instead of hitting the snooze button, get out of bed and start your day with a positive mindset.
Take small steps daily toward your goals.
“You have to grow from the inside out. None can teach you, none can make you spiritual. There is no other teacher but your own soul.”
Focus on personal growth, self-discovery, and spiritual well-being;
it starts from within.
Spend time in self-reflection, journaling, or meditation to understand your values and priorities.
Seek personal development through experiences that resonate with your inner self.
“The greatest religion is to be true to your own nature. Have faith in yourselves.”
Be authentic, trust yourself, and stay true to your values;
that’s the key to a fulfilling life.
Embrace your uniqueness.
Pursue hobbies and interests that genuinely make you happy,
even if they don’t align with societal expectations.
“Do not wait for anybody or anything. Do whatever you can, build your hope on none.”
Don’t procrastinate.
Take initiative, be proactive, and build your future with your own efforts.
Start that project or hobby you’ve been putting off.
Your actions and determination can be the source of your hope and motivation.
“The moment I have realized God sitting in the temple of every human body, the moment I stand in reverence before every human being and see God in him—that moment I am free from bondage, everything that binds vanishes, and I am free.”
Practice empathy and respect for others;
find freedom in recognizing the inherent value in every person.
Approach disagreements with understanding and respect, recognizing the shared humanity in others.
“All the powers in the universe are already ours. It is we who have put our hands before our eyes and cry that it is dark.”
Realize your potential; often, it’s our own limiting beliefs that hold us back.
The power is within you.
Take on challenges with a positive mindset.
Believe in your abilities to learn.
And overcome obstacles rather than focusing on perceived limitations.
“Take risks in your life. If you win, you can lead; if you lose, you can guide.”
Embrace challenges, take calculated risks, and learn from both success and failure.
It’s all part of the journey.
Pursue opportunities outside your comfort zone, whether it’s starting a new project, learning a skill, or taking on a leadership role.
Embrace the lessons, regardless of the outcome.
“Condemn none: if you can stretch out a helping hand, do so. If you cannot, fold your hands, bless your brothers, and let them go their own way.”
Practice kindness and understanding.
Offer help when you can, and if you can’t, wish others well on their journey.
Offer support to a friend or colleague going through a tough time.
If you can’t directly assist,
express your well-wishes and respect their journey.
“The greatest sin is to think that you are weak.”
Believe in your strength and capabilities.
Self-doubt is the real enemy; don’t let it hold you back.
Face a fear or challenge you’ve been avoiding.
Recognize that your perceived weakness may be a temporary mindset, and you have the strength to overcome it.
“In a day when you don’t come across any problems, you can be sure that you are traveling on a wrong path.”
Challenges are part of growth.
If things seem too easy, reevaluate your goals and push yourself to aim higher.
If everything seems too easy, reassess your goals.
Challenges indicate growth.
Consider setting more ambitious targets that push you out of your comfort zone.
I am sure if you can imbibe these teachings in your life 2024 will be a cracker of an year for you.
“Roses are red, violets are blue, bad hair days are okay, but BAD AIR DAYS WILL SCREW YOU” – Anonymous
dylann-hendricks
Could not have summarized it better!
I will spare the lecture on how air pollution , or for that matter any damn pollution, is bad. And how the world is suffering because of it.
Will surprise you with the lesser known impacts of air pollution on us.
So here we go!
Cognitive Impairment
A study at MIT done by Juan Palacios, shows indoor air pollution due to fine particles causes impaired learning and damaged health and performance outcomes.
Fine particulate matter refers to tiny particles 2.5 microns or less in diameter, commonly known as PM2.5. They are often associated with burning matter — in internal combustion engines in autos, coal burning , wild fires and in developing world burning of wood for cooking inside closed walls.
pexels-александр
Before you reach any conclusions that as emissions standards increase and more electric cars are adopted, particulate matter from vehicle brakes, wearing down of tires, and road surface abrasion will overtake fuel emissions as the leading source of vehicle particulate emissions within the next two decades
The World Health Organization estimates that air pollution leads to over 4 million premature deaths worldwide every year, due to cancer, cardiovascular problems, and other illnesses.
in Short , it has a negative impact on cognition.
Clean air makes for clearer thoughts and sharper thinking.
The high ranking office holders are more frequently than not making high stake decisions that range from product design to launch, market assessments and working on improving sustainability solutions. All these involve multiple levels of discussions and then seriously challenging decision making. When such decision are to be made at such a high frequency and there is always a pressure to perform the impact of indoor air quality and air pollutants especially PM 2.5 is drastic.
pexels-fauxels
“when PM 2.5 level went up inside closed doors people were more likely to make mistakes- and the mistakes grew larger with time.”
Juan Palacios found out that when PM 2.5 level went up inside closed doors people were more likely to make mistakes- and the mistakes grew larger with time, thus impacting career growth . The effect of this air pollution became particularly pronounce under time pressure when situations demand a certain number of moves in a small duration, giving less time to think , assess decision and recalculate their moves etc.
What can be done to protect yourself from its impacts
No one is immune to the ill effects
Air pollution is impacting productivity in career and no one in the offices’ is spared from bottom to top.
pexels-nicola-barts
Install multiple air filters in your office just as you would do at home for your family
Use Cleaner days to make Key Decisions!
Be mindful of this especially when taking pivotal decisions ‘Make such major key decisions on days when air pollution levels are at their lowest possible.
SO now you know why you have been messing up your career progression and chances of promotion.
Its not you. Its the air!
Increasing Divorce Rates/ Troubled Marriages
Breathing dirty air can make you sick. But did you know it can also make you more aggressive. That can lead to clash of thoughts in spouses and thus can put strain on marriages.
andrea-piacquadio
That’s the conclusion from a set of studies authored by Colorado State University researchers in Economics, Atmospheric Science and Statistics.
“The research found strong links between short-term exposure to air pollution and aggressive behavior”
This was in the form of aggravated assaults and other violent crimes across the continental United States.
The Colorado State University researchers cross-analyzed three highly detailed datasets:
daily criminal activity
county-level air pollution
daily data on wildfire smoke plumes from satellite imagery.
When it was observed whether crimes occurred inside or outside the home; they found that 56 percent of all violent crimes and 60 percent of all assaults occurred within the home,
which is an indication that many such crimes are tied to domestic violence.
alex-green
Notably all crimes might not even be physical—one can assault someone verbally.That suggested when you’re exposed to more pollution, you become marginally more aggressive, so those altercations where things that may not have escalated,do escalate, thus causing troubled marriages.
The researchers were careful to correct for other possible explanations, including weather, heat waves, precipitation, or more general, county-specific confounding factor solar exposure.
-andrea-piacquadio
So the next time you shout at your partner realise that it might not be them who might be at fault but the Indoor air pollution messing up your brains.
You might as well get a heart attack because of the stresses, thats a different story for a different day.
Though there is no formal research on Divorce rates and air pollution but many other research pieces are suggestive that more domestic violence and increasing aggression in families can eventually lead to permanent or temporary separation.
