Children’s Diets Are Now “Over 70%” Ultra-Processed Foods, Dietitian Warns

Tyler Durden, Zero Hedge — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 10:58:51 +0000

(Zero Hedge)—It looks like the “Make America Healthy Again” movement could be showing up right on time…

At least according to one registered dietitian nutritionist in Los Angeles, who recently took to Fox News to lay out the risks from ultra-processed foods in the American diet.

Ilana Muhlstein said on Fox news that America’s diet is 60% ultra-processed, but that kids consume even more than that.

“With children, it’s actually over 70%. That is really wild when you think about it,” she said. “What we eat defines how our cells work, how our organs work, and we’re seeing a strong decline in mental health and well-being.”

And a recent BMJ study found that 60% of Americans’ daily calories come from ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which are linked to 32 poor health outcomes, including mental, respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic issues like cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, according to Fox.

Muhlstein added: “We’re actually seeing that this next generation might be the first generation to … have a shorter lifespan than their parents due to nutrition and lifestyle factors.”

A nutritious diet boosts children’s mental well-being, behavior, and academic performance, says Muhlstein, a nutritionist and instructor of “Raising Balanced Eaters.”

While cutting ultra-processed foods entirely is unrealistic, Muhlstein advocates for reversing the typical 70/30 ratio of processed to whole foods, recommending an “80/20 rule”—80% whole foods like eggs, fish, and vegetables, and 20% indulgent foods like chips and ice cream.

For healthier options, Muhlstein suggests swapping ketchup for marinara sauce on chicken nuggets and fries, opting for chicken strips over mechanically processed nuggets, and choosing hamburgers over nitrite-laden hot dogs. Each small change reduces the overall level of food processing.

The nutritionist warns that poor eating habits won’t resolve on their own and encourages exposing kids to diverse flavors and textures early on.

The Fox News report says that sitting down for family meals—without screens—can reduce the risk of eating disorders and promote a healthy relationship with food. Just three to five family meals a week can make a positive difference, fostering better eating habits and family connection.

Health Preparedness: Get Fit Now Before Things Get Crazy

JD Rucker — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:58:23 +0000

Whenever catastrophe hits or when one is anticipated, Americans tend to run to the store to get supplies. If we’re low on food, most can get a quick supply in a matter of hours. If a banking collapse seems imminent, we can engage in a bank run. If we think the water is going to be compromised, we can get stocked up quickly. Ammunition, candles, cash, batteries, and so many “prepper supplies” are currently abundant and can be acquired rapidly.

But what do we do if we have to bug out? What if the situation gets so bad that we have to walk (or run) miles at a time, defend ourselves against thugs, carry enough water to get to the next supply, or anything else that requires a certain degree of physical fitness? We can’t run down to the gym and become buff in a matter of hours. Considering the state of the nation and the world, we need to be physically ready for whatever is to come and we need to do it as soon as possible.

Tens of millions of Americans are overweight and/or have health issues that are correctable. Now is the time to correct them. Why? Because if the crap hits the fan, the last thing anyone should want to be is victimized solely because they couldn’t lay off the Big Macs.

Never in our lifetimes have we, as a nation, been as close to catastrophe as we are today. That may be challenging for some to see because we often tend to judge the trajectory of our country based on the events unfolding around us in the moment. But those who are seeing threats and looking ahead to even worse scenarios likely realize that very bad times may be ahead.

Unfortunately, some of the existential threats we face can come in the very near future. Some can be sudden. For example, if there is an economic collapse prompted by a massive cyberattack on one of many vulnerable systems, we won’t have years, months, or even weeks to react. It’s possible that we’ll have mere days to get situated to weather the turmoil that will arise.

That’s not fearmongering. That’s a realistic assessment. And while I never encourage people to be guided by terror, I strongly believe that preparing for possible events is not only fruitful in case of catastrophe but can also relieve stress and improve quality of life today.

But all the food you have in your prepper pantry is worthless if you’re forced to vacate your home permanently. All the money in the bank will be meaningless if fiat currencies collapse or the banking system is compromised. As unnerving as it may be for some of us to imaging living on the go, we have to consider the possibility and prepare accordingly. That means being at the highest level of physical fitness that our age and health situation allows.

There are those who simply cannot get healthier. Perhaps they have conditions that prevent them from being active, eating well, or regulating their body’s algorithm. For those with uncorrectable mobility issues or who require access to ongoing treatments or medications, now is the time to research alternatives. There’s no guarantee that the pharmacies, clinics, or hospitals will be accessible or even operational. If you can’t run down to CVS tomorrow, do you have a plan? Perhaps you can stockpile certain chronic medications. Are there alternative treatments that you can implement in case of extended emergencies?

As for those who CAN get healthier, don’t wait. Procrastination is the most common murderer of good health intentions. Upon reading this article, it’s time to make a concerted effort to improve you health condition. Not tomorrow. Not in an hour. If you’ve made it this far into the article then you’re likely motivated to prepare. Your best changes of success will come if you commit to healthy lifestyle changes now.

And by “now,” I mean literally right now.

Do you need to lose weight? Build muscle? Improve mobility? Increase stamina? Chances are strong that the answer is “yes” to at least some if not all of those questions, not to mention the dozen other major healthcare questions that you need to answer for yourself. Commit today — RIGHT NOW — to staring the journey to improving your health. If you try your best, then you can more confidently prepare for the future, whether it’s dark or bright.

All of this was the preface to an article I wanted to share from Natural News. Just putting it out there without trying to encourage people to practice it just didn’t feel sufficient.

Before we get to the article, I wanted to highlight one of my sponsors, Jase Medical. They can help you stock up on long-term storage meds. Whether you want to stockpile antibiotics or get ahead on your supply of chronic medications, Jase can help. Use promo code “Rucker10” for $10 off.

Prepper Fitness: 10 Tips to Kickstart Your Fall Transformation

As a prepper, you should prioritize your overall health and fitness. This is important if you want to be strong enough to lift supplies, accomplish physically taxing chores around your homestead, or run fast if SHTF.

Even if disaster doesn’t strike, being physically active can do wonders for your health. Here are some tips to help you start or continue your exercise regimen as fall begins. (h/t to HuffPost.com)

Figure out your fitness goals

Start by figuring out your main fitness goals, then write them down. Do you want to improve your flexibility or your strength? Figuring out why you want to lose weight or become fit can help you stay committed and motivated to reach your weight loss goals.

Commit to your exercise regimen

According to research, people who make a public commitment are more likely to follow through with their goals. Telling your family and friends about your fitness or weight loss goals will help you stay accountable. The more people you share your fitness goals with, the greater the accountability.

Be safe and alert when exercising outdoors

Shorter days mean dark mornings and evenings, but this shouldn’t discourage you from an outdoor exercise regime. If you decide to exercise outdoors, wear the proper gear so you can stay safe. Wear reflective workout clothes and bring a flashlight to illuminate your path.

If you have a bike, invest in headlights and blinking tail lights and avoid heavy traffic roads. If you prefer an early morning or evening exercise routine, walk, jog or run at designated paths or go to the local school track.

Appreciate the beautiful fall foliage while exercising

Exercising will feel less like work if you are doing something you enjoy. When exercising during fall, try to relish the cooler weather and take advantage of outdoor activities before it gets too cold and you need to work out at home.

Try researching park trails nearby and go on hikes or go on a bike ride. If you want to try activities that are fun for the whole family, go apple picking or pumpkin gathering with your kids so you can also burn calories while creating lasting memories.

Wear several layers to stay warm

The change in season also means a change in climate. Depending on where you live, temperatures could gradually decrease or drastically dip. Remember this while you’re planning outdoor activities.

You can also invest in breathable, moisture-wicking clothing. While you may feel chilly at the start of your routine, your body will quickly warm up once your blood starts pumping so you don’t want to overdress either. If you want to go on cold morning runs, wear a hat to help insulate your head where you lose the most heat. (Related: Prepper fitness: 5 Easy exercises that can help you SURVIVE during emergencies.)

Use the right gear

You don’t need to break the bank when it comes to fall fitness. Working out at home means you can challenge your muscles with your own body weight. But you might want to consider some useful items, such as hand weights or resistance bands.

Try new activities

If your typical exercise routine is getting boring, you can try new sports and activities like swimming or boxing.

Exercise at home

If you’re too busy for an outdoor exercise routine, you can work out at home or somewhere in your homestead. Set aside at least 15 or 20 minutes every day, which is enough for a quick workout.

When you have less than half an hour of free time, get in a quick workout and do aerobics in your living room or go on a walk around the neighborhood.

Get a bike and try cycling

If you want to try something more challenging, start cycling. New bicycle models are usually released in September and dealers will sometimes offer discounts because they don’t want old models in their showrooms.

Bike manufacturers make updates to new models. However, in some cases, these updates are minimal, so buying an older model is the better choice.

Buy fall produce for less

If you don’t have a home garden, you can still enjoy tasty and nutritious meals by purchasing fall produce at lower prices.

Visit grocery stores and farmers’ markets for fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, figs, pears, pumpkins, sweet potatoes and winter squash. In-season produce is very flavorful and cheaper than other options.

Alternatively, you can stock up on freeze-dried fruits and vegetables so you have access to your favorite produce year-round.

Where to buy supplies for your fall prepping needs

The Health Ranger Store is committed to helping you stay fit and healthy while you prep this fall.

That’s why we’re proud to introduce nutritious items like Freeze-Dried Organic Apple, Freeze-Dried Organic Whole Blueberries and Freeze-Dried Organic Mango Diced. Stock up on these items or use them to make healthy and delicious snacks you can enjoy this fall or year-round.

Organic apples are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. The Health Ranger Store wants to help you experience the full nutritional benefits of organic apples, which is why we’re bringing you freeze-dried, organic, diced apples in long-term storable #10 cans.

Health Ranger Select Freeze-Dried Organic Diced Apples are made from fresh, high-quality apples that are grown under strict organic standards without the use of synthetic pesticides. Our freeze-dried apple pieces are non-GMO, certified Kosher and organic and are thoroughly lab-tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbes. Eat them as a snack, sprinkle them onto cereals, or rehydrate them by soaking them in water.

Organic blueberries are considered one of the most nutritious and antioxidant-rich fruits in the world.

Health Ranger Select Freeze-Dried Organic Whole Blueberries can be stored for up to 10-15 years, depending on storage conditions. Store the product in a dark, cool, low- are also full of essential nutrients, making them a healthy snack you can enjoy all year round. They have been carefully freeze-dried to preserve the taste, texture and nutrients of fresh produce without chemical preservatives. You can eat them directly or reconstitute them by adding water.

Health Ranger Select Freeze-Dried Organic Whole Blueberries contain no gluten or GMOs and have undergone extensive lab testing for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology. They are also vegan, non-China and certified Kosher and organic.

Lastly, you can try Freeze-Dried Organic Mango Diced (10.5oz, #10 can) (2-Pack) from the Health Ranger Store.

Freeze-Dried Organic Mango Diced must be stored in a dark, cool, low-humidity location so it can last for an extended duration. Note that heat, humidity and light will degrade all storable foods.

Our freeze-dried mango pieces are grown in Mexico under strict organic standards. You can enjoy them as a snack or rehydrate them before adding them to desserts or other dishes by soaking them in water.

Visit Health Ranger Store and Brighteon Store to find more prepping products. You can also visit MensFitnessFocus.com to read more tips for improving your fitness before SHTF.

Click on this link for a tasty recipe for homemade Apple Cinnamon Protein Muffins that you can enjoy before or after your fall workouts.

Watch this video to learn why Organic Mangoes are an excellent source of nutrition. This video is from the Health Ranger Store channel on Brighteon.com.

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